Finally Available in its Motherland
The third-generation Mazda CX-5 made its world premiere in mid-2025. However, the first market to get it was Europe when sales kicked off in December that year. It was followed by the U.S. in early 2026, and it’s only now that sales have commenced in its home market, Japan.
What’s interesting about the redesigned CX-5 is that there are three distinct powertrains for its major markets. North American models have the familiar 2.5-liter SkyActiv-G with no electrified assists, while Europe gets a hybrid version of that with far less power. Now that the Japanese version is out, we’re glad to report that it slots somewhere in between.
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The JDM CX-5 Hybrid
The Japanese-market Mazda CX-5 still uses a 2.5-liter engine, but, like the Euro version, it’s a hybrid. But unlike the European model, this one has far more power. Per the spec sheet, it makes 176 hp and 175 lb-ft of torque, which is a massive improvement over the other hybrid model. The electric motor is rated at 6.4 hp and 44 lb-ft of torque. For reference, the European CX-5 makes just 139 hp (but still 175 lb-ft) from the same arrangement.
Admittedly, we’re still not expecting it to be quick. The pure ICE engine that North America gets still has a higher output. The 2.5-liter currently powering the CX-5s sitting in showrooms right now is good for 187 hp and 186 lb-ft, 11 hp and 11 lb-ft more than the Japanese CX-5. As in the American and European models, the sole transmission choice in Japan is a six-speed automatic. All-wheel drive is available.
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Coming to the U.S.?
Unlike its peers, the redesigned Mazda CX-5 isn’t available with a hybrid option in North America. For that, you’ll have to go for the more expensive CX-50 that, in itself, is doing well for itself. However, it’s worth pointing out that the JDM CX-5 is a mild hybrid, not a full-on hybrid, which should give it a couple more MPG and keep prices lower. After all, Mazda’s best-selling model thrived on its strong value proposition.
One could say that the Mazda CX-5 hybrid will come to the U.S. in one way or another. The Japanese model proved that it’s possible to extract more power out of the electrified powertrain. What North America could get is a far-improved version of what’s being offered in Japan, as Mazda said it will roll out its SkyActiv-Z powertrain by late 2027. It’s still a long way off, but it’s coming.
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An Important Model
Not only is the CX-5 Mazda’s best-selling model, but the compact crossover is also the company’s fastest-selling vehicle. The company has shifted over 5 million units of the car over 14 years and three generations.
The CX-5 is such a huge deal that the brand is giving its showrooms in Japan a facelift to coincide with the model’s introduction there. As reported by Nikkei Asia, Mazda is set to roll out its ‘new generation’ showrooms across key locations in its home market, reflecting its continuous push towards a more premium image. These new-gen showrooms feature darker interiors, with a mix of grey and black complemented by natural materials.
One can say that Mazda’s future hangs in the balance with the success of the CX-5. This all-new model needs to succeed far more than its predecessor. Now that electrification plays a massive role in sales, a hybrid version of its best-seller isn’t just a good idea, it’s something the folks from Hiroshima need.
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