3rd Gen Mazda CX-5 Will Have 60% Local Content Upon CKD, CBU Launches Here On October 8th

The all-new Mazda CX-5 gets a confirmed launch date of 8th October 2026 with some news on the CKD model.

The third-generation Mazda CX-5 is scheduled to officially launch in the Malaysian market on October 8, according to an original report by paultan.org.

The popular C-segment crossover will initially arrive on local shores as a fully imported, completely built-up (CBU) model. Local completely knocked-down (CKD) assembly is slated to commence approximately 12 to 16 months later at the Inokom manufacturing plant in Kulim, Kedah. Once localized production begins, the new CX-5 is targeted to achieve a significant 60% local-content level.

According to the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), this intensive localization roadmap is part of a broader national initiative to establish Malaysia as a dedicated manufacturing and export base for Mazda. The program will enable Malaysian automotive parts vendors to integrate more deeply into Mazda’s regional and international supply chains, fostering local manufacturing capabilities for high-value components.

Strategic Vendor Development: 16 Suppliers and 5 Bilateral MoUs

To meet the ambitious 60% localization target, MIDA and franchise holder Bermaz Auto have organized 16 domestic automotive vendors under the MIDA-Mazda Strategic Vendor Development and Supply Chain Programme.

Five memorandums of understanding (MoUs) have already been signed between Malaysian and Japanese automotive firms to accelerate technology transfer.

The participating Malaysian tier-one and tier-two suppliers will manufacture critical components across multiple production areas:

• Chassis and suspension assemblies
• Structural body stamping
• Precision machining
• Plastic injection moulding
• Modular seating systems
• Complete cockpit modules
• Thermal and acoustic insulation components

Sole Powertrain: 2.5L e-Skyactiv G Mild-Hybrid

Bermaz Auto executive chairman Tan Sri Ben Yeoh previously confirmed that the third-generation CX-5 will be offered in Malaysia exclusively with a 2.5-litre engine. The powertrain is the brand’s newer e-Skyactiv G setup, combining a naturally aspirated petrol inline-four engine with an integrated 24-volt M Hybrid system. The powerplant generates 141 PS and 238 Nm of torque, delivering drive to the front wheels via a six-speed Skyactiv-Drive automatic transmission.

Expanded Proportions and Tech-Focused Redesign

First previewed locally in June at the Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show (KLIMS), the SUV is currently open for booking with an estimated starting price of RM170,000.

Built on an expanded footprint, the new model measures 4,690 mm in length, 1,860 mm in width, and 1,695 mm in height, riding on a 2,815 mm wheelbase. Compared to the outgoing second-generation CX-5, it is 115 mm longer, 15 mm wider, and 15 mm taller, with the entire 115 mm wheelbase extension translating directly into superior rear-seat passenger legroom and expanded boot storage.

Inside, the cabin abandons the traditional Mazda Connect layout, ditching the center-console Commander Control rotary knob and physical climate buttons in favor of an Android Automotive OS touchscreen interface (measuring up to 15.6 inches), accompanied by a Qi wireless smartphone charger.