New Mazda plug-in hybrid coming to South Africa

Mazda has announced that it will launch its first plug-in hybrid in South Africa in 2027, marking the next step in the brand’s shift towards new-energy vehicles.

The Japanese automaker’s local division confirmed the plan during Auto Week 2026 in a conversation with Cars.co.za.

While Mazda Southern Africa has yet to confirm which model is heading our way, it did confirm that preparations are already underway to get dealers ready for the car’s arrival.

“We’re working on an alternative new-energy vehicle for next year, and we are currently making sure that our dealers are ready for its introduction into the South African market,” said Bonite van der Merwe, Managing Director at Mazda Southern Africa.

“I can confirm it’s a plug-in hybrid.”

The company noted that the announcement comes at a crucial time, as new-energy vehicles (NEVs) are one of South Africa’s fastest-growing segments.

Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) have accounted for 36.5% of all NEV sales in South Africa in 2026 thus far, with 6,919 units sold in the first eight months.

This marks a 40.6% increase from the same period in 2025, underscoring the rise in demand for these types of vehicles.

“Mazda’s decision to bring a plug-in hybrid to South Africa is another clear signal that electrified mobility is moving from the margins to the mainstream,” said Alan Quinn, Chief Innovation and Product Officer at Cars.co.za.

“PHEVs offer a practical bridge for many South African buyers: they deliver electric driving for daily commuting while retaining the range and refuelling convenience of petrol for longer journeys.”

“As more brands enter this space, consumers will have greater choice, more competitive pricing and a clearer path into new-energy ownership.”

Quinn added that legacy brands like Mazda are likely to accelerate consumer confidence in plug-in hybrid technology, as nearly all of the PHEVs available in South Africa right now are sold by Chinese brands.

“The real opportunity lies in making electrified vehicles relevant to how South Africans actually drive,” he said.

“A well-priced, well-supported Mazda PHEV could appeal to buyers who want lower running costs without the range anxiety often associated with fully electric vehicles. The next 12 to 24 months will be critical as more manufacturers bring PHEVs into the local market.”

While Mazda hasn’t confirmed which model will be sold here, the brand only has a few PHEVs in its global catalogue – the CX-60, CX-70, CX-80, and CX-90.

The CX-70 and CX-90 are primarily aimed at North American markets, which means we’re more likely to get either the CX-60 or CX-80 PHEV.

The CX-60 is the safest bet, as it is already available in South Africa and is even offered with a 3.3-litre turbocharged diesel hybrid engine, meaning the PHEV would add a second NEV powertrain option.

The flagship CX-80, on the other hand, was previously set to launch in our market but was indefinitely postponed, with Mazda stating that it was considering other products with more affordable price positioning.

Assuming we get the CX-60, buyers can expect a 2.5-litre petrol engine paired with an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery.

While Mazda is preparing to expand its NEV catalogue, it stressed that it will continue to provide more traditional options for local motorists.

“We will continue with our internal combustion engine vehicles, and we’ll gradually introduce new-energy vehicles,” said Van der Merwe.

“As the local market transitions to NEVs, we will provide the relevant vehicles to the market.”