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) operations 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, albeit with changes to 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, catering to different needs and price preferences.
Front design comparison between the new and previous generation Mazda CX-5.
This strategy could also be a logical approach for Mazda distributors across Southeast Asia. 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 approximately one year after neighboring markets, around 2027. This delay allows the manufacturer to invest in assembling the new model while optimizing production of the outgoing version.
