2026 Mazda CX-5 Third Gen Hits 600+ Orders Before October Launch

August 12, 2025 – Two months before the official debut of the third-generation Mazda CX-5, Bermaz Auto has already banked over 600 customer orders in Malaysia, according to a fresh market insight report from Maybank Investment Bank. The SUV is set to launch locally on October 8, initially as a fully imported (CBU) unit, before local assembly (CKD) ramps up roughly 12 to 16 months later.

The report estimates the CBU model will carry a price tag of around RM170,000 (~US$36,300), while the CKD variant, expected to roll out in mid-2027, could come in closer to RM160,000 (~US$34,200). For perspective, that positions the new CX-5 in the same premium compact SUV bracket as the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Hyundai Tucson — but with Mazda‘s signature driving dynamics and upscale interior design working as key differentiators in the Malaysian market.

What the bookings signal for global markets

While the 600-plus order count is a Malaysian figure, it reflects strong pent-up demand for the redesigned CX-5 in a region where the model has long been a bestseller. The third generation marks the first full redesign since the CX-5’s debut in 2012, and Mazda has been tight-lipped on powertrain details for the new model. Speculation points toward a continuation of Skyactiv-G and Skyactiv-D engines, possibly with mild-hybrid assistance, and a likely plug-in hybrid option to compete with electrified rivals.

For US consumers, the CX-5 remains Mazda’s volume leader, often outselling the CX-50. However, Mazda North American Operations has yet to confirm a launch timeline for the third-gen CX-5. Given the typical 6-12 month gap between Asian and North American rollouts, a US debut could land in late 2026 or early 2027. Pricing in the US is expected to see a modest increase over the current 2025 model (starting at ~US$30,000), perhaps climbing into the low US$33,000–35,000 range for the base trim, with top trims approaching US$42,000.

Maybank’s report also teases a new B-segment SUV

Perhaps more intriguing is the report’s mention of a new B-segment SUV arriving in either 2027 or 2028, likely priced around RM120,000 (~US$25,600). This aligns with Mazda’s mid-year financial report, which confirmed that the next-generation CX-3 will be phased into ASEAN, Japan, and other markets starting in 2027, with Thailand serving as the production hub.

The current CX-3 and the Mazda 2, which share the same platform, have already been dropped from Bermaz Motor’s lineup in Malaysia, signaling a clean slate for the subcompact crossover. In the US, the CX-3 was discontinued after the 2021 model year, replaced in spirit by the larger CX-30. Whether Mazda will bring the next-gen CX-3 stateside remains unclear, but the B-segment SUV segment — crowded with entries like the Chevrolet Trax, Hyundai Kona, and Kia Seltos — could benefit from a more premium, driving-focused option like a new Mazda.

CKD timing and local industry implications

Malaysia’s CKD production of the CX-5 is slated to begin in mid-2027 at Bermaz Auto’s assembly plant in Kulim, Kedah. The shift from CBU to CKD typically brings a 10-15% price reduction, which the RM160,000 estimate confirms. This strategy mirrors Mazda’s approach in other Southeast Asian markets, where local assembly helps reduce import duties and maintain competitive pricing against Japanese and Korean rivals that already assemble locally.

Industry analysts point out that the 12-16 month gap between CBU launch and CKD start is longer than usual for Bermaz Auto, which managed a 6-month transition for the previous CX-5 generation. Supply chain constraints and component sourcing complexities for the new platform may be factors. Still, the strong pre-order book suggests buyers are willing to accept the initial CBU premium to get the new model sooner.

Competitive landscape and market outlook

The third-generation CX-5 enters a hotter-than-ever compact SUV segment. In Malaysia, it squares off against the recently updated Honda CR-V (also partially CKD), the Toyota RAV4 (full import, higher price), and the Hyundai Tucson (CKD, competitive pricing). The CX-5’s edge has traditionally been its upmarket interior and engaging driving feel, areas where Mazda is expected to push further with the new model.

Globally, the CX-5 will need to contend with not only traditional rivals but also a wave of Chinese-brand SUVs (BYD Atto 3, Ora, etc.) and aggressive incentives from established players. However, Mazda’s loyal customer base — particularly in APAC markets where the CX-5 is often a family’s only car — should cushion demand.

Expert take

“The 600