It is unlikely that this will be the next-generation model.
You will be disappointed if you thought the next-generation Mazda CX-5 would debut with major changes for the model year 2022. The photos leaked by China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology show what we can expect. We will be dealing with another redesign for the brand’s midsize SUV. These minor modifications hint at a final redesign of the model before it arrives.
Kolesa.ru was quick to render the 2022 CX-5, and to make the visual changes revealed in the leaked images. For example, the front fascia has a lower grille, while the headlights are slimmer and have L-shaped LED elements. The main grille is now a different design and the renderings show all the tweaks.
You’ll find the changes in the rear end if you look closely. The bumper’s lower section has a more simple design, and the taillights extend further into the boot. The design is largely the same as that of Mazda’s CX-5, which is still in stock at Mazda’s showrooms.
This SUV’s look is so familiar that we believe it isn’t the next-generation model. We expect the new CX-5 to have more drastic visual changes. Under the skin, it will be a new model with six-cylinder engines. Mazda is likely to keep the current model in stock for another year until the new-gen CX-5 goes on sale. If we are correct, the new model should be available for 2023 and 2024 model years.