The next-generation Mazda CX-5 will receive an entirely new four-cylinder gasoline engine, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to internal combustion technology. New details about the inline-four, named the Skyactiv-Z, shared via Britain’s AutoCar, reveal that it will replace the current Skyactiv-X engine, which has become a staple for the automaker.
Mazda is already working on the third-generation CX-5, which is expected to debut within the next year or so. New details now reveal that the upcoming model will be available as a hybrid and a traditional ICE version.
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The Next-Gen CX-5 is Set to Debut as a 2027 Model-Year Vehicle
As reported by AutoCar, the new CX-5 is expected to arrive within the next two years, marking the first all-new model since the current second-generation version debuted in 2016. Considering it’s nearly a decade old, the model is long overdue for a replacement. However, due to its continued success, Mazda has kept it in production, and it remains on sale today.
The new Skyactiv-Z engine will introduce an entirely new generation of internal combustion gasoline-four-cylinders. Developed by Mazda engineers to meet the stricter Euro 7 emissions standards, this engine is expected to power the next Miata and serve as the base gasoline engine for future ICE models.
The new engine is expected to be more fuel-efficient, cleaner, and simpler, with fewer control units and less complexity. This streamlined design will help reduce production and manufacturing costs.
Currently, Mazda offers two four-cylinder options for the CX-5: a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated Skyactiv-G and a turbocharged variant for those seeking more power.
The new Skyactiv-Z engine is a key part of Mazda’s strategy shift, especially regarding its electrification efforts. Initially, the company aimed to prioritize innovation in all-electric vehicles. However, due to a tepid market response and lower-than-expected demand, Mazda has refocused its efforts on advancing internal combustion and hybrid technologies.
Mazda has significantly adjusted its strategy, reportedly cutting its massive investment in EVs from ¥2 trillion to approximately ¥1.5 trillion ($13.35 billion to $10.01 billion USD). Rather than pouring resources into EV technology, the company is now focusing on enhancing its internal combustion engine (ICE) technology, developing hybrid powertrains, and advancing battery management systems for both.
Mazda will continue to rely on joint ventures, including its current partnerships with Toyota and China’s Changan, for future EV development.
“As significant investment is needed for batteries, yet demand remains highly uncertain,” said Mazda’s CEO and president, Masahiro Moto, in a recent statement to reporters. “We will make careful and efficient investments while closely monitoring technological advancements.”
Mazda is on track to launch its first BEV, the all-new Mazda6e sedan, which recently debuted in Europe and is destined for North American shores. The Mazda6e, also known as the EZ-6 in Asia, is the latest BEV developed in collaboration with Changan.
“As a Japanese automaker, we will boldly expand our areas of cooperation to sustain our global competitiveness,” Moro concluded.
Source: AutoCar
