The all-new third-generation Mazda CX-5 has officially arrived in South Africa, bringing a sharper interpretation of the familiar SUV design, a larger body and a significantly upgraded interior.
Despite the changes, Mazda has managed to keep pricing relatively close to that of the outgoing model. The new four-model range starts at R578,250 and tops out at R749,100, putting the CX-5 directly into one of the most competitive parts of South Africa’s new-vehicle market.
2026 Mazda CX-5 pricing
2.5L Active FWD – R578,250
2.5L Dynamic FWD – R636,000
2.5L Individual FWD – R717,000
2.5L Homura AWD – R749,100
The outgoing CX-5 ranged from R570,500 to R688,400, meaning the new model hasn’t moved dramatically at entry level, although the flagship is considerably more expensive.
That places the CX-5 in competition with a wide selection of established and newer SUVs, including the Hyundai Tucson, Jetour T2, Ford Territory, Nissan X-Trail, Volkswagen Tiguan, Subaru Forester and Toyota RAV4.
Bigger than before
Although the styling remains recognisably Mazda CX-5, the new generation has grown substantially.
Overall length has increased by 115mm to 4,690mm, while width is up by 15mm.
Importantly, Mazda has used the additional length to extend the wheelbase, rather than simply making the front and rear overhangs longer.
That should translate into a more spacious cabin, particularly for passengers sitting in the rear.
Mazda says occupants benefit from improvements in legroom, knee room and headroom, while luggage capacity has increased from 438 litres to 466 litres.
The result is a CX-5 that remains relatively compact externally while becoming more practical inside.
A bigger, more modern cabin
The interior receives one of the most noticeable upgrades.
Higher-specification versions can be equipped with a panoramic sunroof, while the flagship Homura gets Mazda’s largest touchscreen display yet, measuring 15.5 inches.
Even the entry-level Active is equipped with a sizeable 12.9-inch touchscreen with integrated Google functionality.
The cabin design continues Mazda’s move towards a cleaner and more technology-focused layout, while higher grades add increasingly premium materials and equipment.
Bigger engine, more power
Another major change is under the bonnet.
While many versions of the outgoing CX-5 relied on a 2.0-litre petrol engine, the new South African range is powered by a 2.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine.
It produces 132kW and 240Nm, representing increases of 11kW and 27Nm over the previous 2.0-litre unit.
The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
The Active, Dynamic and Individual models send their power to the front wheels, while the range-topping Homura uses an all-wheel-drive system.
For buyers interested in improved fuel economy, there is also potentially more to come.
Mazda is considering introducing the mild-hybrid powertrain already available in overseas markets to South Africa at a later stage.
What does the entry-level CX-5 offer?
Despite being the cheapest model in the range, the 2.5L Active comes with a substantial equipment list.
Standard features include:
17-inch Grey Metallic alloy wheels
12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen
Built-in Google functionality
Seven airbags
Adaptive Cruise Control
Blind Spot Monitoring
That makes the entry-level CX-5 considerably more than a basic specification designed simply to advertise a low starting price.
The combination of a 2.5-litre engine, automatic transmission and comprehensive safety technology should make the Active an appealing option for buyers who don’t necessarily need luxury extras.
Dynamic adds a more premium feel
The 2.5L Dynamic, priced at R636,000, adds several features designed to improve both appearance and comfort.
It receives:
19-inch Black Machined alloy wheels
Synthetic leather upholstery
Electrically adjustable driver’s seat
Head-up display
Powered tailgate
The larger wheels give the CX-5 a more substantial appearance, while the head-up display and powered tailgate add everyday convenience.
Individual brings the luxury equipment
Moving up to the 2.5L Individual brings another significant jump in specification.
For R717,000, buyers get:
12-speaker Bose sound system
Ventilated front seats
Panoramic sunroof
Heated outer rear seats
360-degree View Monitor
Front Cross Traffic Alert
This version is aimed squarely at buyers who want a more luxurious SUV experience without moving all the way to the flagship Homura.
The ventilated front seats should be particularly welcome during South Africa’s warmer months, while the 360-degree camera system can make manoeuvring the larger CX-5 considerably easier.
Homura tops the range
The 2.5L Homura AWD sits at the top of the range at R749,100.
It distinguishes itself with a combination of cosmetic, comfort and technology upgrades.
Highlights include:
All-wheel drive
Adaptive LED headlights
Genuine leather upholstery
Black or Sports Tan interior options
Hands-free liftgate
15.5-inch touchscreen
Additional premium interior finishes
The Homura is therefore more than simply the most powerful-looking version of the CX-5. It is the model designed to offer the fullest combination of luxury and capability.
How does the CX-5 stack up?
The CX-5 enters an exceptionally competitive segment.
Its R578,250 starting price puts it close to the Hyundai Tucson and Jetour T2, while the Ford Territory and Nissan X-Trail are also priced within striking distance.
Higher in the range, the CX-5 begins to overlap with vehicles such as the Volkswagen Tiguan and Subaru Forester, while the flagship approaches the pricing territory of the Toyota RAV4.
Mazda’s advantage is that the CX-5 combines a premium-leaning interior with a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre engine, automatic transmission and a strong standard safety package.
The challenge will be convincing buyers that the Mazda offers enough value when compared with increasingly well-equipped rivals.
Five-year ownership package
One of the more attractive aspects of the South African specification is Mazda’s ownership package.
The CX-5 comes with a five-year, unlimited-kilometre service plan and warranty, which should be particularly appealing to motorists who cover large distances every year.
The unlimited-kilometre provision is especially noteworthy for high-mileage drivers who might otherwise find themselves reaching the limits of conventional mileage-based maintenance plans.
A bigger CX-5 without abandoning the formula
Mazda has resisted the temptation to completely reinvent the CX-5.
Instead, the third-generation model takes the familiar formula and makes it bigger, more powerful and considerably more technologically advanced.
The increased dimensions should improve passenger and luggage space, while the new 2.5-litre engine provides a useful step up in performance.
At the same time, the extensive safety equipment and upgraded infotainment system mean even the entry-level model feels properly equipped.
With pricing starting at R578,250, the new CX-5 isn’t the cheapest SUV in its class, but Mazda appears to have deliberately positioned it as a more premium alternative rather than chasing the lowest possible price.
For buyers looking for a refined family SUV with more space, a naturally aspirated engine and a strong equipment list, the third-generation CX-5 could prove to be one of Mazda’s most important new arrivals in South Africa.
