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Mazda's celebrated CX-5 compact SUV has achieved a significant manufacturing landmark, surpassing five million units produced since its debut in 2011. This accomplishment positions the CX-5 as one of only three Mazda models to ever reach this impressive production volume, standing alongside the iconic Mazda 323 and Mazda3. The vehicle quickly became Mazda's global top-seller, showcasing its widespread appeal and success in the competitive SUV market.

As the CX-5 celebrates this achievement, Mazda is already looking ahead with the imminent launch of its third-generation model. This new iteration promises substantial enhancements, including increased dimensions and the future integration of a hybrid powertrain, signaling Mazda's commitment to evolving its best-selling vehicle and meeting changing market demands. The continued success of the CX-5 is a testament to Mazda's design philosophy and engineering prowess, which have consistently delivered vehicles that resonate with a global audience.

The Ascent of Mazda's Bestselling SUV

Since its inaugural launch in 2011, the Mazda CX-5 has cemented its position as a cornerstone of the automaker's global sales, with production figures recently exceeding five million units. This remarkable feat underscores the crossover's widespread appeal and consistent demand across various international markets. The CX-5's journey began with its unveiling at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show, quickly gaining traction and becoming Japan's leading domestic crossover by 2012. Its early success laid the groundwork for a trajectory of sustained popularity, culminating in this impressive production milestone. The crossover’s first million units were produced by April 2015, followed by the introduction of the second-generation model in late 2016, further solidifying its market presence and customer loyalty.

The CX-5's strong performance in the United States peaked in 2021, recording 168,383 sales. Although sales have seen a slight decline since then, reaching 136,335 units in 2025, the model demonstrated a 1.7 percent increase from the previous year, indicating a steady and resilient market presence. This enduring success is attributed to its engaging driving dynamics and overall quality, distinguishing it in a highly competitive segment. Mazda’s program manager, Koichiro Yamaguchi, extended gratitude to customers and enthusiasts worldwide for their support, highlighting the collaborative effort behind the CX-5's success. The company's focus on crafting vehicles that offer both practicality and an enjoyable driving experience has been a key factor in the CX-5's ability to maintain its popularity and achieve such a significant production landmark.

Anticipating the Next Generation: Innovations and Future Outlook

Looking ahead, Mazda is on the cusp of introducing the third-generation CX-5, a model poised to bring substantial innovations and updates to its celebrated SUV lineup. This forthcoming iteration is designed from the ground up, featuring a larger chassis that includes an additional 4.5 inches in length and an extended wheelbase of the same measure. These dimensional changes are expected to enhance both interior space and ride comfort, addressing evolving consumer preferences for more accommodating and refined crossover experiences. A notable upgrade to the interior is the integration of a larger display screen, moving towards a more streamlined, button-free cabin design, which aligns with modern automotive trends emphasizing minimalist aesthetics and advanced technology.

Under the hood, the new CX-5 will continue to offer the familiar 187-horsepower 2.5-liter engine, ensuring a robust and reliable performance that has been a hallmark of the model. However, a significant development in the powertrain offerings is the planned introduction of a hybrid variant in 2027. This move signals Mazda's strategic pivot towards electrification, demonstrating its commitment to sustainability and meeting future emissions standards while catering to a broader market seeking fuel-efficient options. The blend of increased size, technological advancements, and the upcoming hybrid option positions the third-generation CX-5 to sustain its strong market momentum and continue its legacy as a top-selling and highly regarded vehicle in the global SUV market.

A Shift in Power: The C-Class Performance Lineup Evolves

The Demise of the Four-Cylinder Hybrid in the C63

The C63 performance sedan's turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid engine, despite its advanced engineering, failed to resonate with consumers. Mercedes-AMG has acknowledged this market sentiment, leading to the decision to cease its production. This move marks a notable departure from a powertrain that, while technically sophisticated, did not meet the expectations of the brand's loyal customer base. The engine's removal is a direct response to feedback that highlighted a preference for traditional, more powerful engine configurations.

Introducing the C53 with an Inline-Six Engine

In place of the outgoing C63, Mercedes-AMG will introduce a C53 variant. This new model will feature a non-hybrid 3.0-liter inline-six engine, an powertrain also found in the 2026 Mercedes-AMG CLE53. This engine choice signals a return to a more conventional, albeit still potent, power delivery system. The inline-six is expected to provide a driving experience that aligns more closely with the brand's performance heritage, emphasizing smoothness and linear power delivery.

Regulatory Pressures and Engine Evolution

The decision to abandon the four-cylinder hybrid is not solely driven by customer preferences. Upcoming Euro 7 emissions regulations have played a crucial role in this strategic realignment. Mercedes-AMG CEO Michael Schiebe confirmed that adapting the four-cylinder engine to meet these stricter environmental standards would be exceptionally challenging. Consequently, the inline-six engine, which is better positioned for future regulatory compliance, has been selected as its successor, ensuring the brand's continued adherence to environmental mandates.

Performance Dynamics: Power vs. Weight

The new inline-six engine, with 443 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, offers a slightly lower power output compared to the hybrid four-cylinder it replaces. However, this reduction in raw power may be offset by the absence of the heavy hybrid system. The lighter overall vehicle weight is anticipated to enhance agility and responsiveness, potentially delivering a more engaging and balanced driving experience. This trade-off between absolute power and dynamic performance reflects a careful consideration of the holistic driving feel.

Looking Ahead: The Return of the V-8 C63

While the C53 marks an interim phase, the future holds promise for enthusiasts of extreme performance. Mercedes-AMG plans to unveil a refreshed C-class sedan later this year, with the new C53 following soon after. Speculation suggests that a C63, powered by a new flat-plane-crank V-8 engine, similar to that found in the recently introduced S580, will eventually make a comeback. This long-term vision indicates a commitment to offering a diverse range of performance options, catering to varying customer demands and technological advancements.