All-New 3rd Gen Mazda CX-5 Open for Booking in Malaysia: 2.5L Powertrain, Fully Imported from Japan from RM170k

The all-new 3rd generation Mazda CX-5 is now open for booking in Malaysia from RM170,000.

The wait is officially over for one of Malaysia’s most anticipated C-segment crossovers. The third-generation all-new Mazda CX-5 is now officially open for customer bookings nationwide, carrying an estimated starting price of RM170,000. Unlike its predecessor, which was assembled locally in Kulim, the new third-generation model makes its initial Malaysian entrance in fully imported (CBU) form direct from Japan. Malaysia has been an export hub for the CX-5 for many years now, so it’s only a matter of time before the Kulim plant tools up for CKD units.

The arrival marks the most substantial ground-up evolution of Mazda’s global best-seller in nearly a decade. Built to elevate the nameplate into a more premium echelon, the latest CX-5 introduces an evolved Kodo design language, a touchscreen interface, a roomier architectural footprint, and a streamlined powertrain strategy focused on refined, large-displacement performance.

Streamlined Powertrain: 2.5-Litre Focus

For this new generation, Mazda has restructured its mechanical offerings. Gone are the smaller entry-level 2.0-litre naturally aspirated engine and the complex 2.5-litre turbo configurations of the outgoing generation, standardizing the lineup around an updated 2.5-litre Skyactiv-G four-cylinder engine.

Delivering linear, naturally aspirated throttle response and proven mechanical reliability, the 2.5L mill pairs with Mazda’s refined six-speed Skyactiv-Drive automatic transmission. Future CKD units may have more options, but the diesel engine may not make its return in Malaysia.

The powertrain is engineered to provide confident highway cruising, ample mid-range passing torque, and the intuitive driver-machine connection (Jinba-Ittai) that remains the cornerstone of the Mazda driving experience.

Evolved Kodo Aesthetics and Larger Stance

Visually, the third-generation CX-5 takes styling cues previewed across Mazda’s latest large-product group.

Up front, the signature wing grille has grown wider and features a sophisticated parametric block mesh texture, seamlessly meeting ultra-slim LED headlights with integrated daytime running light signatures.

The profile reveals a longer, more athletic stance:

• Stretched wheelbase and expanded overall body length deliver greater road presence and solve the cabin packaging limitations of earlier generations.
• Sleek side surfacing reduces abrupt character lines, allowing reflections to flow across the bodywork in classic Mazda fashion.
• Gloss-black wheel arch cladding, darker lower aero skirts, and large multi-spoke dark alloy wheels lend the crossover a sportier, more upscale street aesthetic.

Upscale Digital Cockpit and Modernised Cabin Architecture

Inside, the third-generation CX-5 undergoes a total generational overhaul, transitioning into a cleaner, screen-centric minimalist design that mimics executive luxury benchmarks.

The updated dashboard layout eliminates excessive physical switchgear in favor of a modern digital workflow, headlined by a large floating central touchscreen running the latest Mazda Connect infotainment ecosystem alongside an integrated digital instrument cluster and a full-colour head-up display.

Rear passenger comfort and practicality have taken a priority leap. Thanks to the lengthened wheelbase, rear-seat occupants benefit from significantly improved knee clearance, better thigh support, and broader shoulder room. Luggage capacity has similarly expanded, accommodating golf bags, family strollers, and weekend road trip luggage with ease.

Bookings Now Open Ahead of Official Showroom Debut

With order books now officially open across authorized dealerships nationwide, prospective buyers can place their reservations ahead of the initial delivery batches.

Given its fully imported status from Japan and introductory pricing starting from the RM170,000 mark, the new third-generation Mazda CX-5 is poised to challenge both mainstream Japanese rivals and entry-level continental crossovers with its blend of Japanese craftsmanship, refined driving dynamics, and elevated cabin luxury.