Mazda’s multi-solution approach to powertrains is an engineering philosophy offering regionally tailored solutions to deliver the right powertrain to meet customer needs at the same time as reducing emissions without compromising driver engagement or choice. The all-new Mazda CX-5 joins a Mazda line-up in Europe that includes BEV, PHEV, self-charging hybrid and mild-hybrid.
In the UK, 2026 will see Mazda launch both the combustion engine all-new Mazda CX-5 and the battery-electric Mazda CX-6e – this pair of all-new SUVs are an example of Mazda’s multi solution approach of continuing to invest in efficient combustion engines alongside electrified systems to deliver customer choice across multiple models.
The all-new Mazda CX-5 is launched with a newly optimised 2.5-litre e-Skyactiv G petrol engine coupled with a 24V Mazda M Hybrid mild-hybrid system. This combination delivers a more efficient and responsive engine and replaces the 2.0-litre unit of the previous model. This updated engine, first introduced in the 2025 Mazda3 and CX-30, is designed to improve everyday performance and responsiveness, while meeting all current emissions and efficiency standards.
Developed at Mazda’s global headquarters in Hiroshima and fine-tuned for European driving conditions at the brand’s R&D centre in Oberursel, Germany, the 141ps engine’s larger displacement delivers a more assured driving experience, especially at low and mid-range engine speeds up to 4,000rpm. With 238Nm of torque, compared to the outgoing 2.0-litre e-Skyactiv G, torque delivery below 4,500rpm is improved by 8-19 per cent depending on load and driving conditions. The result is more confident acceleration and smoother progress, particularly on urban and mixed-speed roads.
A normally aspirated layout has been retained to ensure a linear throttle response and the ideal balance between responsiveness and efficiency. This is achieved by precisely controlling the catalyst temperature using the throttle and sequential valve timing (Dual S-VT) for exacting control of the combustion process. To further reduce fuel consumption in real-world driving without compromising drivability or refinement, the engine incorporates a cylinder deactivation system that shuts down two of the four cylinders under low-load conditions. The 2.5-litre e-Skyactiv G is fully compliant with the latest Euro 6e emissions standard and marks a strategic step towards a future Euro 7 compliant version - underlining Mazda’s phased approach to clean combustion engine technology.
All versions of the all-new Mazda CX-5 are matched to a recalibrated six-speed automatic transmission with revised shift mapping and updated hydraulic torque converter control. These refinements reduce shift frequency and enable smoother transitions depending on the driver’s preference. All cars offer the option of manual shifting by moving the shift lever left then pushing forward for downshifts and back for upshifts, while Homura grade cars have steering wheel mounted shift paddles. All models feature Mazda Mi-Drive, which allows to switch between Normal and Sport drive modes – with changes made to the throttle response and shift logic of the gearbox.
As before, the CX-5 continues to offer an all-wheel drive option for customers who want the reassurance of four-wheel drive. Both Exclusive-Line and Homura grades can be chosen with Mazda’s i-Activ AWD system, which works together with G-Vectoring Control Plus (GVC Plus) to provide greater control in varied driving conditions.
Front-wheel drive versions make up the largest percentage of UK sales and have a WLTP combined economy of 40.4mpg, while depending on grade, all-wheel drive is 37.7mpg-38.2mpg. CO2 emissions for front wheel drive are 157-159g/km, while four-wheel drive is 168-169g/km.
A further example of Mazda’s multi-solution approach in action is the Mazda M Hybrid System, which enhances both efficiency and driving comfort. It comes with an integrated starter-generator (ISG), a 24V lithium-ion battery, a DC-DC converter and regenerative braking. The ISG recovers the kinetic energy from decelerating and stores it in the battery, while the DC-DC converter is then used to convert the power and supply it to the car’s electrical equipment, helping reduce engine load and delivering motor assist when needed. For the first time in a CX-5, the Mazda M Hybrid System works in coordination with Mazda’s brake-by-wire technology, maximising both braking performance and energy recuperation efficiency.
Not only does Mazda M Hybrid support lower emissions but it also improves drivability, smoothing transitions when starting, accelerating or slowing down. By using electric torque to substitute engine torque when needed, the system achieves the same acceleration with less fuel. Additionally, when restarting the engine after idling, the ISG also helps reduce engine combustion noise, starter gear noise and restart vibrations, enhancing day-to-day refinement.
The all-new Mazda CX-5’s power unit package combines Mazda’s latest e-Skyactiv G combustion engine technology with mild-hybrid tech to deliver balanced refinement, performance and efficiency.