Mazda Southern Africa announces the arrival of a brand new Mazda CX-5 model, which is an enhanced version of one of the brand's most iconic SUVs. Pre-orders for the new CX-5 are being accepted in July and August, with the first vehicles expected in South Africa from September. This new model marks a new era in design, technology, safety, performance, and driver-focused innovation.
For decades, Mazda's philosophy has been based on the belief that driving should not just be about getting from point A to point B, but a complete experience harmoniously connecting the driver, the vehicle, and the road. This concept, known as Jinba-Ittai—the feeling of unity between horse and rider—remains central to the new Mazda CX-5.
Developed for a world that is becoming increasingly noisy, fast, and demanding, the new CX-5 offers a rare sense of calm, control, and presence. Every element has been carefully considered to eliminate unnecessary distractions and create a more intuitive and human driving experience.
Deolinda Da Costa, Marketing and Communications Manager at Mazda Southern Africa, stated: 'With the arrival of the new Mazda CX-5, we present a vehicle that perfectly embodies Mazda's commitment to creating meaningful experiences through exceptional design, intuitive technology, advanced safety, and engaging driving dynamics.' She added that this latest evolution enhances the success of the CX-5 by offering customers in South Africa an elevated level of safety, connectivity, comfort, versatility, and confidence, guided by the Jinba-Ittai philosophy.
A Wonder Awaits
The feeling of confidence begins with safety. The new CX-5 has received a five-star Euro NCAP rating under the Euro NCAP 2025 testing protocol. It achieved 90% for adult occupant protection, 89% for child occupant protection, 93% for vulnerable road user protection, and 83% for Driver Assistance Systems. This rating reflects a thorough assessment of both passive safety measures and active technologies designed to support the driver before a collision occurs.
Furthermore, the new CX-5 is equipped with an expanded suite of driver assistance systems designed to enhance awareness, reduce fatigue, and ensure confidence in various driving conditions. Technologies such as 360° View Monitor, Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane Departure Alert, Mazda Radar Cruise Control, Proactive Driving Assist, i-Activsense safety systems, and Tire Pressure Monitoring System work in concert to help drivers remain more aware of their surroundings.
Inside the cabin, Mazda's latest Human-Machine Interface technology ensures seamless connectivity between the driver, smartphone, and vehicle. Features like wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, Driver Personalization, and a fully digital LCD instrument cluster are part of the driver-centric technological offering, ensuring that key information is accessible, intuitive, and easy to use.
The top-tier Mazda CX-5 Homura features a striking 15.5-inch central display and electrostatic steering wheel controls, lending the cabin a sophisticated blend of digital functionality and craftsmanship. Additional features, including Driver Distraction Detection and Driver Anomaly Detection, support Mazda's commitment to helping drivers remain alert, supported, and in control of the situation.
Mazda has also applied advanced engineering to everyday details that shape the driving experience. Improved vibration damping in the rearview mirrors helps maintain a clear rear view at high speeds and on uneven roads, while newly developed high-efficiency sound-absorbing materials contribute to a quieter and more refined cabin.
Beneath the sculpted body, the responsive 2.5-liter gasoline engine produces 132 kW at 6000 rpm and 240 Nm of torque at 4000 rpm. This powertrain is designed according to the Jinba-Ittai philosophy, providing smooth acceleration, confident handling, and a light sense of control when performing various daily driving tasks.
Efficiency has also been considered as part of the complete driving experience. Mazda engineers have improved the aerodynamic characteristics of the CX-5 by meticulously managing airflow around the front, wheels, and rear of the vehicle, resulting in a 5% reduction in drag coefficient compared to the previous model, while the overall vehicle drag area is reduced by 2%, despite the larger body and improved interior space.
Handling and maneuverability have been further refined through the development of Mazda-specific suspension models, which help balance handling stability with a softer and more comfortable ride in typical road conditions. The result is an SUV that feels composed and capable, yet genuinely pleasant to drive.
The new CX-5 is also adapted to the practical needs of modern life. Rear passengers benefit from increased legroom and headroom, while the widened rear door opening and wider sill area facilitate entry, exit, and loading. The cargo area has been enlarged, with a load capacity reaching 964 liters with the rear seats folded, providing greater flexibility for work, family, sports, and adventures.
The lower loading height reduces the effort required to lift heavy or bulky items, and the flat cargo floor simplifies organizing larger items. The rear seats, which can fold in a 40:20:40 ratio, add even more flexibility, allowing for the transport of long items while still accommodating two rear passengers. Convenient seat release levers in the cargo area and a remote-controlled tailgate make the CX-5 even more adaptable to unforeseen changes in plans.
These functional enhancements are complemented by a design language that reflects Mazda's unwavering commitment to craftsmanship. The SUV's sculpted exterior creates a confident yet elegant presence, with carefully balanced proportions that harmonize urban style and everyday practicality. Inside, premium upholstery in tanned leather, ambient lighting, roof rails, and a power-operated panoramic sunroof create an open, serene, and beautifully appointed cabin.
A defining visual feature is the introduction of Navy Blue Mica—a completely new exterior color debuting on the Mazda CX-5. Developed as an evolution of Mazda's classic dark blue, this rich and sophisticated shade has been meticulously refined to reveal its character in various climatic conditions, weather, and lighting. In bright sunlight, it imparts crisp blue highlights to the CX-5's sculpted surfaces, while in softer or shaded conditions, it retains a deep, unequivocally dark blue character.
Confidence extends beyond driving. The new Mazda CX-5 is backed by the MazdaCare program, which includes a five-year unlimited mileage service warranty, a five-year bumper-to-bumper factory warranty, and five years of roadside assistance. Scheduled maintenance is performed by certified Mazda technicians using genuine Mazda parts and approved fluids, helping customers plan ownership costs with greater assurance.
For eligible owners of the CX-5 with an active five-year service plan and warranty, the Mazda Service Program also provides access to a same-day vehicle service appointment, depending on availability at the dealership and applicable terms. The new Mazda CX-5 creates a space of calm, control, and presence, eliminating unnecessary noise and distractions, allowing drivers to reconnect with the world around them. It is an SUV created not just for transporting people from one point to another, but for transforming the experience of every journey.
Whether the driver is meeting the demands of daily life or setting out to explore new horizons, the CX-5 empowers drivers to be more present, more aware, and more connected to the road ahead.
About the New Mazda CX-5
The 15.5-inch central display and electrostatic steering wheel controls are available on the Mazda CX-5 Homura. Certain design, trim, technology, safety, comfort, and after-sales service features may vary depending on the specific model and local specification. Load capacity is measured with the rear seats folded. Fuel consumption and emissions data will be confirmed closer to the local launch. Benefits of MazdaCare, the Service Program, and other ownership advantages depend on applicable terms.
To learn more about Mazda or find your nearest dealership, visit www.mazda.co.za or follow Mazda Southern Africa on social media: Instagram: @mazda_sa, Facebook: @MazdaSouthernAfrica, X: @Mazda_SA.
About Mazda Southern Africa
Mazda Southern Africa strives to create vehicles that transform daily driving into an exceptional experience. Focusing on human-centric design and emotional connection, Mazda vehicles are crafted to evoke a sense of wonder and joy in every journey. Their philosophy, 'Wonderrrr Awaits,' is a celebration of unexpected moments of joy and wonder that our vehicles can bring to your daily life. It unites advanced technology, refined craftsmanship, and a seamless driving experience, ensuring that every trip feels meaningful and inspiring. Whether it's innovative safety features, intuitive design, or the Jinba Ittai harmony between driver and vehicle, Mazda Southern Africa aims to inspire curiosity and freedom on every road.