Mazda confirms new Skyactiv-Z engine and next-gen CX-5

Next week will mark the eighth anniversary of Mazda’s launch of the second-generation CX-5 at the 2016 Los Angeles Auto Show. Although it’s been a long time, the crossover is still very popular and is the brand’s best-selling model in the United States. While the CX-50 is often viewed as the successor to the CX-5, that’s not the case. On the contrary, Mazda has revealed various details about the next-generation model.

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The redesigned crossover will play a central role in Mazda’s Phase 2 plan, which will see the automaker transition to electrification between 2025 and 2027. As part of this effort, the CX-5 will offer a new hybrid powertrain developed in-house. That’s in stark contrast to the CX-50 Hybrid, which hit the Toyota parts bin.

More: 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid offers Toyota tech, 38 MPG

In addition to being hybrid, the next-generation CX-5 will be approximately 60 percent less complex than the current model. To achieve this, Mazda will simplify specifications and equipment. This means we can expect a smaller, simpler lineup. This makes sense, since Mazda currently offers eight different trims in the United States.

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In 2027, Mazda will launch a new electric vehicle based on a dedicated platform. The automaker is also working on plug-in hybrid variants based on the architecture, which it says would be relatively cheap to develop. This could make them an attractive hedge against lackluster EV adoption.

Speaking of electric vehicles, the company reiterated Changan Mazda’s plans for an electric crossover. This was previewed by the Arata concept car launched at the Beijing Auto Show earlier this year.

While much of the focus has been on electrification, Mazda confirmed it is developing a new Skyactiv-Z engine, expected to launch in 2027. The automaker hasn’t revealed much, but the engine also promises “more ideal combustion” as well as enhanced “environmental and driving performance.”

Skyactiv-Z will be the four-cylinder successor to today’s Skyactiv-G and Skyactiv-X engines. It will adopt a “lambda-one combustion method” that promises “high thermal efficiency by achieving ultra-lean combustion in a wide range from low to high rpm.”

Mazda also reiterated its intention to simplify its internal combustion engine lineup, aiming to “consolidate and simplify the overall complexity of the engine.” Despite the move toward simplification, they remain committed to rotating engines and are making “smooth progress” on emissions compliance.

While Mazda’s engine lineup will shrink in the coming years, they will eventually apply new combustion technology to their inline-six engines. This is expected to improve its “environmental performance” and thus help the engine comply with future emissions standards.

In addition, Mazda’s third phase plan will be carried out between 2028 and 2030. Little is known about this period, but the company promises a “full rollout” of electric vehicles.

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