Mazda’s Journey Towards Hybrid Innovation

Plucky Mazda now hopes that between 60 and 75 percent of its global vehicle sales will feature some version of its new hybrid powertrains by the end of the decade. To achieve this ambitious goal, the Japanese automaker has announced plans to increase the availability of large plug-in hybrid (PHEV) SUVs and to incorporate a more traditional hybrid setup from Toyota. Moreover, they are developing their own hybrid configuration that may incorporate the brand’s iconic rotary combustion engines, which are currently being reworked. Here’s what we can expect from Mazda’s hybrid transition in the coming years.

Mazda’s State of the Hybrid 2024

In both the U.S. and Japan, where Mazda has recently rolled out large CX-90 and CX-80 PHEV SUVs, the company currently sees an electrified sales mix of only 22 percent—significantly trailing behind Europe, which boasts a mix of up to 85 percent. However, it’s important to note that as of April 2024, Europe only accounts for 15 percent of global sales, while the U.S. contributes approximately 32 percent and Japan around 12 percent. Consequently, it is essential for these major markets to quickly enhance their electrified vehicle sales mix.

Addressing Mazda’s U.S. Hybrid Mix

To swiftly address this challenge regarding the U.S. sales mix, Mazda has introduced a new hybrid trim to its 2025 Mazda CX-50 SUV lineup. This model utilizes key components borrowed from the Toyota Hybrid System found in the competitive Toyota RAV4 hybrid. This innovative Mazda configuration pairs a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gas engine with a battery unit and three compact electric motors, all of which work together to deliver a robust 219 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque across both competing SUV models from Mazda and Toyota.

New Mazda Hybrid System Launching Soon

However, this current offering may not suffice to achieve the desired sales mix. According to Automotive News, Mazda’s R&D executive officer, Naohito Saga, emphasizes the need for a hybrid system that fits between the relatively low-power 48-volt system and the more robust plug-in hybrid. This forthcoming system is expected to feature a larger battery than Toyota’s current hybrid system utilized by Mazda, while also eliminating the need for plugging in, thus simplifying ownership and reducing costs.

Reassessing Rotary Engine Ambitions

Moreover, Saga communicated to AutoNews that the upcoming hybrid powertrain offerings might incorporate traditional gas engines or potentially utilize one of the company’s two in-development rotary units. “An inline-four or inline-six is also in the range of possibilities; it’s not just the rotary,” he stated, suggesting a reconsideration of Mazda’s previous fervor for rotary engines.

Towards Future Hybrid Innovations

We anticipate the introduction of the new hybrid CX-50 this fall in the U.S., coinciding with the launch of the CX-80 PHEV in Japan and Europe. To reach the targeted 60 percent electrified sales mix within the next five years, Mazda will need to unveil additional products, and we expect this new hybrid system to debut in forthcoming models, particularly SUVs, by around 2028. Additionally, Mazda faces the pressing decision regarding the future direction of the next-generation Miata—will it transition to hybrid, fully electric, or continue with gasoline? A concrete strategy for this iconic model is eagerly awaited.