A Mazda CX-5 Review is usually for one kind of shopper: someone who wants a compact SUV that feels a little more polished than the average option, without stepping up to a luxury badge. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 is interesting because Mazda didn’t just tweak a few features and call it a day; it’s a meaningful update aimed at fixing the two most common CX-5 complaints: space and tech. Multiple first-drive impressions highlight that it’s bigger now, with noticeably improved rear-seat room and a more useful cargo area, so it should feel less “tight” when you have adults in the back, or you’re loading up for a weekend.
For day-to-day driving, the approach is also simpler. Mazda says the 2026 CX-5 launches with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder making 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic and standard i-Activ AWD. That means you’re not playing the usual game of “which trim gets AWD,” and it keeps the decision focused on features, comfort, and budget instead of drivetrain compromises.
The biggest lifestyle change is inside. Google built in, and major outlets note the switch to a touchscreen-forward setup (with larger displays available on higher trims), which is a clear break from the old dial-based system. If you liked how the previous CX-5 drove but wanted a more modern cabin and more breathing room, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 is shaping up to be the version that finally brings those pieces together.
