Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia
'26 Mazda CX-5 to Get Hybrid Power
A recent batch of images captured by SEMA News sources have revealed the third generation of Mazda's best-selling vehicle, the CX-5.
Spotted testing near Mazda's European headquarters in Germany, the CX-5 retains a similar appearance to its predecessor, but features a longer body and a rear design reminiscent of the CX-90 and Mazda 3 hatchback. Additionally, the grille appears narrower than that of the current model, drawing inspiration from the CX-50.
While it may look similar, the next-generation CX-5 is expected to be a completely new vehicle built on the Small Platform, which is derived from the current Mazda 3, CX-30 and CX-50. Mazda confirmed last May that this model will feature a full-hybrid system developed in-house, rather than the Toyota RAV4-derived hybrid system used in the CX-50 and will retain the CX-5 name instead of adopting a new designation like CX-40.
According to insiders, the new CX-5 is anticipated to launch in Europe between September and November 2025, offering mild-hybrid, hybrid and plug-in hybrid options. The introduction of a full-hybrid powertrain in the CX-5 will finally provide Mazda with a competitor to the best-selling Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, which saw most of its sales in 2024 come from electrified models, now offered exclusively as hybrids.
Dacia Sandero Spotted With Design Updates
Dacia, the Romanian car manufacturer owned by Renault, is working on a major update for its Sandero hatchback, according to new images.
The first spy shots of the prototype reveal a facelift for the generation of the city car first launched in 2020.
Photographed inside a testing facility in Germany with Renault's trademark camouflage, the images show design changes to the front and rear. The Sandero, after adopting Dacia's new corporate design in 2022, is now adapting to the design philosophy that the brand is applying to all new models. According to sources, both light clusters will be updated with LED technology taking center stage in the headlights.
The front bumper is covered, hinting that it will be revised. Likewise, the grille will get a lot of attention and some minor changes. Dacia will also take the opportunity to expand and improve the technological equipment of what is one of its best-selling models.
New features are anticipated under the hood, too, with the new generation of bi-fuel engines debuted on the Dacia Bigster expected to be available on the Sandero range.
The facelifted model will be equipped with mild hybrid technology (MHEV) in order to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. Rumors have suggested that all versions of the new Sandero will only be available as hybrids, as is already the case with the Dacia Duster and the aforementioned Bigster.
The new Sandero will have its public unveiling sometime later this year. The commercial launch is expected to take place in the second half of 2025.