The Waiting Game: When Can You Get One?

Here’s the thing about heroes. They never arrive on time. They always keep you waiting, building anticipation, making you sweat. The new CX-5 is no different.

Mazda Southern Africa has confirmed that the all-new CX-5 will arrive on South African shores in the second half of 2026. Originally pencilled in for April 2026, the date has shifted slightly, but we’re still looking at a launch window somewhere between July and December 2026.

The company says final launch dates are pending, which is corporate-speak for “we’ll tell you when we’re absolutely sure.” But mark my words: this thing is coming. And when it does, it’s going to cause chaos.

The Numbers: Bigger. Wider. Meaner.

The new CX-5 has been hitting the gym. Hard.

That’s not a facelift. That’s a growth spurt. The new CX-5 is now only 55 mm shorter than the larger CX-60. It’s edging into big-brother territory, and it’s not apologising for it.

The boot has also grown by 61 litres, now offering 500 litres of luggage space with the rear seats up. That’s enough for a week’s worth of shopping, a couple of suitcases, or—if you’re me—a suspiciously large number of tyre-shaped objects.

And here’s a party trick: the rear doors now open almost 90 degrees. Getting in and out of the back seats is no longer a yoga exercise. It’s just… easy. Revolutionary, I know.

Under the Bonnet: Petrol Power, No Diesel, No Drama

Now, let’s talk about what matters. The engine. The heart of the beast.

In South Africa, the new CX-5 will launch with a 2.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine. It produces 132 kW and 242 Nm of torque, and it’s paired with a six-speed automatic transmission sending power to all four wheels.

That’s right. No front-wheel-drive option at launch. Every new CX-5 in South Africa will be AWD. Mazda is making a statement: “We’re not messing around.”

The 2.0-litre engine from the outgoing model? Gone. The diesel option? Also gone. Mazda has simplified the range, and the 2.5-litre petrol is the star of the show.

Now, there is a mild-hybrid version available in other markets, producing 104 kW and 238 Nm with 48-volt tech. But Mazda Southern Africa has confirmed that the mild-hybrid will only arrive later. Initially, it’s just the good old-fashioned petrol engine. And honestly? That’s fine. Because it’s a proven unit, it’s reliable, and it’s exactly what South African driving conditions demand.

The Tech: Screens. Lots of Screens.

Inside, the new CX-5 has been completely redesigned. It’s minimalist. It’s “uncluttered”. It’s the kind of interior that makes you feel like you’re driving a spaceship, not a family SUV.

The centrepiece is a massive 15.6-inch touchscreen infotainment display on higher trims, or a 12.9-inch unit on lower-spec models. That’s the largest screen ever offered on a Mazda vehicle. It runs Google software, with native Google Maps and Google Gemini (the AI assistant) built in.

There’s also a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a head-up display, and—get this—the old rotary selector dial is gone. It’s all touchscreen now. Climate control? Touchscreen. Audio? Touchscreen. It’s a bold move, and I’m not entirely sure I like it, but I respect the commitment.

Higher-spec models get a 12-speaker Bose sound system and a panoramic sunroof. Ambient lighting is reserved for the flagship Homura model. Because nothing says “I’ve made it” like mood lighting in your SUV.

The Price: The Million-Rand Question

Here’s where it gets interesting. The outgoing CX-5 is one of the most affordable vehicles in its class, with pricing starting at R570,500 for the 2.0 Active. But the new model is bigger, more powerful, and packed with tech. It’s going to cost more.

Based on the current market and the price hikes we’ve seen across the industry, I’m predicting:

That’s a significant jump from the outgoing model. But consider this: the new CX-5 is now almost as large as the CX-60, and it’s AWD as standard. It’s competing with the Toyota RAV4, the Hyundai Tucson, and the Kia Sportage. And against those cars, the CX-5 still looks like a bargain.

Mazda Southern Africa has confirmed that the current five-year/unlimited km warranty and service plan will be retained for the new model. That’s peace of mind. That’s value. That’s Mazda saying, “We trust this car.”

More from DriveZA

If you’re in the market for a new SUV, check out our Kia Tasman review and Peugeot Landtrek guide. For more on the CX-5’s rivals, read our Toyota RAV4 2026 preview.

For official Mazda South Africa news, visit Mazda South Africa.