Mazda Plans To Do Its Own Thing With Hybrid Tech
Mazda is starting to snuggle into electrification—but on its own terms. As rivals from South Korea chart an aggressive EV strategy, Mazda is charting a carefully thought-out course.
Key Points
- The third-generation CX-5 will debut Mazda's new SkyActiv-Z hybrid system, marking the brand’s first self-developed hybrid and a major step in its slow but deliberate electrification strategy.
- Mazda’s first new EVs since the short-lived MX-30 are expected to arrive closer to 2030, starting with a midsize electric crossover and possibly including the rotary-powered Iconic SP concept.
- Models like the CX-90, CX-70, and CX-50 Hybrid reflect Mazda's current focus on PHEVs, offering competitive fuel economy and moving the brand into more premium pricing territory.
A report from Automotive News suggests how the Hiroshima-based automaker plans to expand its hybrid and EV portfolio through the end of the decade.
The next-generation Mazda CX-5— which debuted last month—will be the company’s first vehicle to feature the house-made SkyActiv-Z hybrid system. The gas-powered version of the third-generation CX-5, powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder making 187 hp, is expected to arrive in 2026, with the hybrid following a year later in 2027.
The outlet suggests Mazda is unlikely to retrofit the Toyota-sourced hybrid system in the CX-50 with its own tech. It's believed the CX-50 will continue using hybrid components shared with the Toyota RAV4 until its eventual replacement later this decade.
Mazda’s real EV expansion should ramp up toward the end of the decade, beginning with an all-new midsize electric crossover. That model will join existing PHEVs like the three-row CX-90 and two-row CX-70.
Enthusiasts are still holding out hope for the Iconic SP concept—Mazda executives have already indicated the project is in the works, even going so far as calling it a “good successor for RX-7.” A pure EV version has reportedly been dismissed entirely, but both hybrid and pure combustion versions are on the table.
Mazda has not confirmed production plans, but did say that if the project is greenlit lit expect to see it hit the road before the next-gen Miata debuts. The Iconic SP or RX-Whatever they're calling it will be sold alongside a traditional gas-powered Miata. Above all, Mazda wants to preserve the identity of its core sports cars while dipping a toe into the electrified performance space.
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An experienced automotive storyteller and accomplished photographer known for engaging and insightful content. Michael also brings a wealth of technical knowledge—he was part of the Ford GT program at Multimatic, oversaw a fleet of Audi TCR race cars, ziptied Lamborghini Super Trofeo cars back together, been over the wall during the Rolex 24, and worked in the intense world of IndyCar.
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