Changan Mazda Unveils New CX-50 Hybrid with Toyota RAV4 Drivetrain

Are you excited about Changan Mazda’s electrified future and the potential for hybrid and electric sedans?

Changan Mazda has introduced the CX-50 Hybrid in China, utilizing the same hybrid system found in the Toyota RAV4. This new electrified crossover is now available for sale and marks the first step in Changan Mazda’s electrification plans for the Chinese market. Additionally, the company has teased two upcoming electrified sedans that will offer both plug-in hybrid and battery electric drivetrains.

The newly introduced CX-50 Hybrid by Changan Mazda features a petrol-electric hybrid system sourced from Toyota. This crossover is being produced by the Changan Mazda domestic joint venture in China, with plans to introduce a hybrid version in the US as well.

Both the 2WD and e-AWD configurations of the CX-50 Hybrid come with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and one or two electric drive motors. The petrol engine produces 131kW (5700rpm) and 221Nm (3600-5200), similar to the RAV4 Hybrid. The electric motor outputs 88kW/202Nm, with the AWD versions adding an additional 40kW/121Nm on the rear axle. The claimed fuel consumption ranges from 5.1-5.66L/100km based on Chinese regulatory testing.

The pricing for the CX-50 Hybrid starts at 195,800 yuan (A$42,139), making it more expensive than the petrol variant in China.

Changan Mazda’s plans for electrification extend beyond the CX-50 Hybrid. Two upcoming sedans, pictured under red sheets in a teaser, will offer both plug-in hybrid and battery electric drivetrains. Whether these will be new models or based on existing nameplates is yet to be confirmed. Currently, Changan Mazda sells the Mazda 3 and Mazda 6 sedans in China.

The production of the domestic CX-50 Hybrid takes place in Nanjing, China, while the US version is assembled in Huntsville, Alabama. The US model is also exported to Canada, Colombia, and Mexico. Despite not sharing underpinnings with the Toyota Corolla Cross, the CX-50 Hybrid marks a shift towards electrification for the nameplate.

Mazda Australia has stated that the CX-50 will not be launched in the Australian market due to its left-hand drive configuration. However, the brand has confirmed that there will be a replacement for the current CX-5, though it remains uncertain whether it will carry the same name.

• Changan Mazda launches the CX-50 Hybrid in China, incorporating the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid’s drivetrain.
• The CX-50 Hybrid is the first step in Changan Mazda’s electrification strategy for the Chinese market.
• The company has also hinted at two new electrified sedans that will feature hybrid and electric powertrains.

Changan Mazda’s introduction of the CX-50 Hybrid showcases their commitment to electrification and their partnership with Toyota. With the launch of two upcoming electrified sedans, the brand is expanding its offerings in the Chinese market. Although the CX-50 Hybrid is not destined for Australia, Mazda Australia is focused on a replacement for the popular CX-5.