Mazda Philippines distributor Bermaz Auto Philippines Inc. (BAPI) has pulled one heck of a surprise at Rockwell Power Plant.

Revealed today at the South Court of the Power Plant Mall is the all-new CX-5. Now on its third generation, the latest Mazda CX-5 is now a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) and features the brand's latest design evolution, as well as a heavily redesigned cabin.

“Since Bermaz Auto Philippines took over the exclusive distributorship of Mazda in the Philippines, the CX-5 has been a core part of our line-up. Known for its distinctive design and responsive performance, it is the choice for drivers seeking a refined yet practical compact SUV. Now on its third generation, the all-new Mazda CX-5 combines a more intuitive human-machine interface with the same emotional appeal that defines the brand expressed through Jinba-Ittai driving dynamics and Kodo design, while enhancing everyday comfort through improved packaging and ride quality. It meets the demands of daily commuting while remaining versatile enough for weekend travel or family use," said Steven Tan, president & CEO of Mazda Philippines.

Starting with what's under the hood, the all-new CX-5 is powered by the brand's latest M hybrid powertrain. It consists of a 2.5L SkyActiv-G inline-four engine that's assisted by a 24V hybrid system, which features a small electric motor and a compact lithium-ion battery pack. This gives the CX-5 HEV a power output of 181 PS and 242 Nm of torque. Power is then sent to the front wheels via a 6-speed automatic gearbox, which Mazda says features a recalibrated shift mapping and updated hydraulic torque converter control.

Looks-wise, the all-new CX-5 features a sharper and more dynamic appearance. The front fascia gets a new pair of LED headlights with redesigned daytime running lights, a more aggressive front bumper, and an evolutionary grille design. The rear, on the other hand, gets new eye-catching LED taillights that come with thin lighting signatures, a sleeker tailgate, and dual exhausts.

Other exterior changes include heavy use of gloss black accents, the new Mazda typeface, and blacked-out side mirror caps and body cladding, which give the crossover a more dynamic look.

Hop inside, and the third-generation CX-5 features a new minimalist cabin that emphasizes a new touchscreen infotainment system. It measures 15.6 inches and handles most in-car functions. Moreover, Mazda says the new touchscreen features smartphone-like usability and a customizable home screen.

It also features a display that allows for shortcuts to favorite apps, voice assistance, and music/video streaming. The screen now also includes functions for the dual-zone climate control, satellite navigation, and other in-seat and infotainment functions. The screen also comes with Google Built-in and wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay.

Gone are the rotary dial controls for the infotainment system, as Mazda went for touchscreen-based controls. This is a surprising change, since Mazda's ethos emphasizes user-friendly cabin controls in its Human-Machine Interface. However, the all-new CX-5 does come with intelligent voice controls and shortcuts on the touchscreen for easier access to favorite menus and functions.

Other available features include power-adjustable front seats with driver memory function, tan leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, a power tailgate, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 360-degree camera system, a 12-speaker Bose sound system, a heads-up display, and a sunroof.

For better peace of mind, the all-new CX-5 introduces a comprehensive suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). Called the Mazda i-Activsense, the ADAS package gives the CX-5 the following intelligent driver aids: Front & Rear Smart Brake Support (SBS), enhanced Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), Driver Monitoring and Driver Attention Alert, Cruising and Traffic Support (CTS) with Lane Change Assist (LCA), and Mazda Radar Cruise Control (MRCC) with Emergency Lane Keeping (ELK)

Available colors for the 2026 Mazda CX-5 include the newly launched Navy Blue Mica, Soul Red Crystal, Rhodium White, Machine Gray, Jet Black, and Aero Gray.

"The all-new Mazda CX-5 elevates the everyday experience thanks to its advanced technology, significantly more practical SUV dimensions, and, of course, the signature driving dynamics. The CX-5 is an important part of Mazda, with cumulative global sales reaching five million units. There is no doubt that the next-generation model will continue to do the same," added Tan.

The all-new Mazda CX-5 is initially available in the top-of-the-line 2.5L AWD HEV for PHP 2.495 million and comes with a 3-year bumper-to-bumper warranty and a complimentary 5-year service plan. In addition, customers can take advantage of 0% interest for 36 months.