2019 Mazda CX-5 2.5 turbo locked in for Australia

Those considering a Mazda CX-5 may want to delay their decision for a few months – especially if they consider the current petrol engine range for Mazda’s hugely popular midsize SUV to be lacking in oomph.

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According to homologation documents seen by WhichCar, the turbocharged 2.5-litre engine from the CX-9 large SUV is now destined for the CX-5’s engine bay, and though it’s yet to be officially confirmed by Mazda Australia, the presence of the ‘Skyactiv-G 2.5T’ engine on the CX-5’s Australian certification suggests it isn’t far from the showroom.

The imminent arrival of the 2.5L turbo petrol engine will bring the total number of CX-5 powertrains to four. The 115kW 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated petrol four will continue to power front-wheel drive versions of the CX-5 Maxx and Maxx Sport, with the 2.5-litre naturally-aspirated petrol and 2.2-litre turbo diesel all-wheel drive options also soldiering on.

And while the diesel and standard-2.5-litre petrol each provide a handy 140kW of power to the CX-5, the incoming 2.5-litre turbo petrol will usurp both of them with its stout 170kW peak power figure. Peak torque for the turbo petrol will measure in at 420Nm, which means the 450Nm diesel will continue to be the most tractive option.

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As with the Mazda 6, which itself received the CX-9’s turbo-petrol powerplant back in May this year, the same engine will be reserved for high-grade versions of the CX-5. According to the car’s homologation documents, the turbo petrol will be paired with 19-inch alloys and a sunroof as standard, so expect it to see service in the top-shelf GT and Akera Grades.

WhichCar has approached Mazda Australia for comment. Expect full pricing and features for the CX-5’s upcoming forced-induction petrol option to be confirmed closer to its launch.