Mazda CX-5 gets bigger, smarter and more refined

BERMAZ Motor has introduced the third-generation Mazda CX-5 in Malaysia, featuring a roomier cabin, updated technology and revised driving dynamics, with prices starting at RM169,900.

Fully imported from Japan, the new CX-5 retains the model's familiar design while gaining a longer wheelbase, improved passenger space and a more comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems.

The SUV is powered by a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre SkyActiv-G four-cylinder petrol engine producing 185hp and 257Nm of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.

The latest model builds on the CX-5's position in Mazda's global line-up since its debut in 2012.

The model has accumulated more than five million sales worldwide, supported by its combination of styling, everyday practicality and driver-focused engineering.

The new generation continues Mazda's Kodo design philosophy, which emphasises movement and simplicity, alongside its concept of creating vehicles that fit naturally into everyday life.

Bigger Cabin, Familiar Styling

The exterior retains the CX-5's recognisable silhouette but adopts a more substantial stance, with a longer wheelbase, sculpted bodywork and redesigned front and rear styling.

At the front, a revised grille and Signature Wing design sit between redesigned double light units, giving the SUV a wider appearance.

The raised front section is also intended to improve forward visibility, while more prominent front wing lines help drivers judge the vehicle's position in tighter spaces.

At the rear, wider body proportions, linear LED lighting and bold Mazda lettering give the SUV a more contemporary appearance.

New 19-inch alloy wheels complete the exterior updates.

Inside, the longer wheelbase translates into more room for passengers, particularly those seated at the rear.

Mazda said rear knee clearance has increased by 64mm, while headroom is up by 29mm.

The rear door opening is 70mm wider, making entry and exit easier.

The cargo floor has also been extended by about 45mm, allowing larger items such as strollers to be stored upright.

The dashboard adopts a horizontal layout, centred on a 12.9-inch touchscreen and a 10.25-inch instrument cluster.

Wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity, a Qi wireless charging pad and USB Type-C ports are included.

Other equipment includes a 12-speaker Bose sound system, seven-colour ambient lighting and a 360-degree View Monitor with See Through View to assist with manoeuvring.

The redesigned centre console, longer armrests and sculpted front seats are intended to improve comfort and make frequently used controls easier to reach.

Focus On Ride Comfort

The 2.5-litre engine delivers its power through a six-speed automatic transmission tuned for smooth, predictable shifts.

While the powertrain retains a conventional naturally aspirated configuration, Mazda has revised the vehicle's structure, suspension and chassis tuning to improve ride comfort and handling.

The use of high-tensile steel is intended to increase structural rigidity, providing a more stable platform for steering and suspension responses.

Mazda's G-Vectoring Control Plus (GVC Plus) system adjusts engine torque and applies braking inputs to help stabilise the vehicle during cornering and directional changes.

The revised suspension is designed to manage body movement more effectively over uneven surfaces, while improvements to noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) are aimed at making the cabin quieter.

Mazda said these changes are intended to deliver a more settled ride without losing the steering response and driver engagement associated with the CX-5.

Expanded Safety Systems

The new CX-5 comes with Mazda's i-Activsense suite of driver assistance technologies and has received the 2026 Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick+ award in the United States, according to the company.

Safety equipment includes adaptive LED headlights, blind spot monitoring, rear and front cross-traffic alerts, lane departure warning and lane-keep assist.

Driver Attention Alert with Driver Monitoring is designed to identify signs of reduced driver attention, while Smart Brake Support provides braking assistance in various traffic situations.

Emergency Lane Keeping adds functions including Road Keep Assist, Blind Spot Assist and Head-on Traffic Avoidance Assist.

Mazda Radar Cruise Control and Cruising & Traffic Support are also available to assist during longer journeys and in traffic.

The combination of active safety technology and occupant protection systems is intended to improve awareness and help drivers respond to potential hazards.

Seven Colours, Five-Year Coverage

The new CX-5 is available in six exterior colours: Rhodium White, Soul Red Crystal, Machine Gray, Jet Black, Navy Blue and Aero Gray.

Navy Blue and Aero Gray expand the colour choices for the model, with the latter previously offered on other Mazda models.

Bermaz Motor said the SUV is produced at Mazda's Hiroshima plant in Japan and imported into Malaysia as a completely built-up (CBU) model.

The company announced a starting price of RM169,900, although its detailed price list puts the CX-5 2.5G 2WD High at RM171,510 on-the-road without insurance for private registration in Peninsular Malaysia.

The vehicle comes with a five-year manufacturer's warranty and a five-year free maintenance programme, covering scheduled maintenance, labour, parts and lubricants, subject to the stated terms and conditions.

Both programmes are valid for five years or 100,000km, whichever comes first.