2026 Mazda CX-5: How emissions laws are choking the new SUV’s engine

Mazda Australia has explained why the new CX-5 generation’s single petrol engine has less power and torque at launch compared to the previous model.

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 is expected to come onto the market in the middle of the year initially with just one powertrain – a version of the venerable 2.5-liter four-cylinder naturally aspirated engine “G25” with 132 kW of power and 242 Nm of torque.

It’s down 8kW and 10Nm compared to the previous model’s G25 engine, and Mazda’s leadership team confirmed this is because Australia is mandating emissions systems aligned to the Euro 6d standard, which came into force for new models late last year.

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While hybrid options are becoming increasingly popular in the midsize SUV segment, a CX-5 with Mazda’s all-new hybrid system won’t come to market until sometime in 2027.

However, there Is an electrified CX-5 already sold elsewhere in the world, with the European market getting another version of the 2.5-litre petrol engine combined with a 24V mild-hybrid system, dubbed ‘e-Skyactiv G’.

This version offers even less power and torque – rated at 104kW/238Nm – although the mild hybrid system is said to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, particularly when driving in urban areas.

Asked what was behind the decision to use the non-electrified version of the inherited engine at launch, Mazda Australia managing director Vinesh Bhindi said the local division felt the “M Hybrid” version was “compromised” for the needs of Australian customers.

“For Mazda, the first thing that is critical for us is that our customers get the ‘Jinba Ittai’, ‘Zoom-Zoom’ experience, first and foremost through economy and efficiency,” Mr Bhindi said.