The new CX-5 is expected to play a key role in Bermaz Auto Bhd’s earnings rebound in the financial year 2027.
The all-new Mazda CX-5 appears to be off to an encouraging start in Malaysia, with around 300 bookings reportedly secured by the end of June 2026.
According to CIMB Research, as cited by The Star, the new CX-5 is expected to play a key role in Bermaz Auto Bhd’s earnings rebound in the financial year 2027. The research house reportedly forecasts a 28% year-on-year increase in BAuto’s core net profit for FY27, following two consecutive years of declining profits.
The report said BAuto has secured an initial allocation of 2,000 units from Mazda Japan, with deliveries expected to begin in the third quarter of 2026. CIMB Research also noted that there could be further upside to its forecast if bookings for the new CX-5 cross the 3,000-unit mark.
This makes the CX-5 a particularly important model for BAuto. The current Mazda range in Malaysia has been facing end-of-cycle pressure, while the market has also become more competitive with aggressively priced Chinese brands.
Speaking of Chinese brands, XPeng is also becoming a larger contributor to the group. According to the same report, XPeng contributed around 25% to 30% of BAuto’s group net profit in FY26, up from 10% to 15% in the previous year.
XPeng has also begun local assembly of the G6 SUV at EP Manufacturing Bhd’s Melaka plant. CIMB Research views this as a strategic move to maintain pricing competitiveness, particularly following Malaysia’s updated rules for fully imported EVs.
Another area of recovery is BAuto’s associate earnings. The group’s share of associate earnings reportedly fell from a RM11.8 million profit in FY25 to a RM25 million loss in FY26. CIMB Research expects this drag to ease through lower losses at Kia Malaysia, a recovery at Inokom and stronger contributions from Mazda Malaysia.
