This information is confirmed by Bermaz Auto, the official distributor of Mazda in Malaysia. According to Tan Sri Ben Yeoh, Executive Chairman of Bermaz Auto, the new CX-5 will initially be imported as a Completely Built-Up (CBU) unit.
“The new CX-5 is expected to arrive in Malaysia in Q3 next year as a CBU. Local assembly (CKD) activities may commence approximately 12–16 months later,” shared a representative from Bermaz Auto.
The new generation Mazda CX-5 makes its debut at JMS 2025.
Notably, the current generation CX-5, which is assembled and sold in Malaysia, will continue to be distributed alongside its successor, but with some changes in the engine lineup.
Mr. Yeoh stated that the current CX-5 will only retain the 2.0L engine option, while the 2.5L variants will be phased out. Conversely, the new CX-5 will exclusively feature the 2.5L e-Skyactiv G engine—the sole configuration unveiled during its global launch in July this year.
The e-Skyactiv G engine is a naturally aspirated 4-cylinder gasoline unit, producing 141 horsepower and 238 Nm of torque, paired with a 24V mild-hybrid system for improved fuel efficiency. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a 6-speed Skyactiv-Drive automatic transmission.
Thus, Malaysian customers will soon have two distinct options: the new CX-5 (CBU) with a 2.5L mild-hybrid engine, or the current CX-5 (CKD) with a 2.0L naturally aspirated engine, depending on their preferences and budget.
Front design comparison between the new and previous generation Mazda CX-5.
This strategy could also be a logical approach for Mazda distributors in the Southeast Asian region. Prior to Malaysia, Mazda Indonesia hinted at plans to launch the new CX-5 by late 2026.
In Vietnam, Mazda vehicles are distributed by Thaco Auto, with most models, including the CX-5, being locally assembled.
Thanks to its domestic production line ensuring a stable supply and frequent promotions lowering the starting price to around 709 million VND, the Mazda CX-5 remains Vietnam’s best-selling midsize SUV in 2025, with 11,306 units sold as of September.
Following the pattern of the current model, the new CX-5 may launch in Vietnam about a year later than neighboring markets, likely around 2027. This delay allows the manufacturer to invest in assembling the new model while optimizing production of the outgoing version.
