The All-New Mazda CX-5 Unveiled: A Blend of Mercedes and BMW Influences with a Familiar Facelift, Leaving Fans Underwhelmed by the ‘Uninspired Design’

Uncamouflaged images of the new Mazda CX-5 have surfaced on the Cochespias forum, allegedly originating from the Instagram page of Car Design News. These images appear credible as the vehicle closely resembles previously spotted prototypes during testing, albeit with some camouflage. The overall proportions and window shapes of the current CX-5 are retained, but the details have been refined.

The first thing that catches the eye is the curved headlight design that seamlessly integrates into the grille, reminiscent of the Mercedes-Benz EQC (now discontinued) and the Mazda 6e sedan and CX-6e SUV concept. The signature grille remains but is refreshed with a new pattern and thinner chrome accents. The front bumper is elegantly sculpted, doing away with the faux air vents on the sides, while the lower air intake is significantly enlarged for a bolder stance.

The wheel arches are accentuated with black plastic cladding, lending a rugged appeal to this crossover. However, higher-end trims might offer body-colored cladding for a more premium look. Unfortunately, the leaked images do not include the rear end. Yet, spy shots indicate slimmer LED taillights akin to BMW’s concept cars and a pair of exposed twin exhaust pipes.

The overall design of the new CX-5 does not mimic its larger SUV siblings, the CX-60, 70, 80, and 90. Neither does it overlap with the similarly-sized CX-50, allowing the CX-5 to retain its unique character while evolving aesthetically.

Reactions to the design have been mixed, with some commenting, “Mazda’s design team is too relaxed,” and “The changes are insignificant,” suggesting it looks more like a facelift than an entirely new generation, which is typically expected to introduce a radical redesign. However, others appreciate Mazda’s approach: “Buy it anytime, and you won’t worry about it going out of style,” and “If it’s already beautiful, why change it?”

While the leaked images do not reveal the interior, glimpses from spy shots indicate that the new CX-5 will likely feature significant improvements, possibly borrowing materials and technology from Mazda’s more upscale offerings. It may take inspiration from the 6e sedan’s massive 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system and incorporate design cues from the CX-90. The dimensions might also see a slight increase, making the CX-5 an even more practical choice for families.

Mazda has confirmed that the upcoming CX-5 will introduce a self-charging hybrid variant, developed entirely in-house. This version will also debut the new SkyActiv-Z gasoline engine, promising improved fuel efficiency and performance. However, this engine won’t be available at launch but is expected by late 2027. Consequently, the hybrid model might initially use the existing powertrain before transitioning to the SkyActiv-Z later, or Mazda might introduce a pure gasoline-powered version first.

According to Autoexpress, there’s also a possibility of a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant, given that Mazda’s newest SUVs, the CX-60 and CX-80 seven-seaters, offer this powertrain option.

A fully electric CX-5 seems unlikely anytime soon, as Mazda is set to launch the all-electric CX-6e SUV in 2027 to rival the Tesla Model Y and other competitors. Meanwhile, the future of the turbocharged 2.5-liter gasoline and 2.2-liter diesel engines, available in select markets, remains uncertain.

With the current-generation CX-5 introduced in late 2016, a redesign is certainly due. Expected to debut between July and September this year, it might not arrive in Vietnam until 2026 or even 2027, following Mazda’s traditional timeline. Meanwhile, its long-time rival, the Toyota RAV4, has also undergone a comprehensive redesign for the 2026 model year. The refreshed CX-5 will also go head-to-head with the Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester, both of which now offer hybrid variants.