With the arrival of the 2026 Mazda CX-5, the latest model is larger yet retains its attractive design. A 15.6-inch tablet with Google apps already installed comes with the new technology in the cabin of the small SUV, which is 4.5 inches longer than before. Before it goes on sale in the early part of next year, Mazda will announce the price of the 2026 CX-5. The Mazda CX-5 has been among our top choices for nearly a decade. In the US, small SUVs are the most common type of vehicle. Even though it costs a lot, the CX-5 still has a lot of appeal because it feels like a luxury car and is a lot of fun for its class. We also liked how the outside looked and how the Mazda’s Soul Red paint choice appeared. It may be risky to make significant changes to a well-known recipe, but the business needs to update its best-selling model for a new generation. The Mazda CX-5 is expected to be available in 2026. Some of the best designers in the business work for Mazda. Although it has recently grown larger, the CX-5 still boasts a simple design compared to its competitors, such as the Hyundai Tucson. The new CX-5 bears a strong resemblance to its predecessor. It features wider headlights and a new grille that give it a more Mazda CX-50-like appearance, as well as a resemblance to the larger CX-70 and the three-row CX-90. The 5 is the first model to have the brand’s secondary logo, and its taillights are also based on those of the bigger models. The well-known logo, still visible on the SUV’s nose, has been replaced with the letters “MAZDA” on the rear liftgate. In the future, only very young children and people who can’t read or write will not know that the nice SUV in their neighbor’s garage is a Mazda. The latest CX-5 extends approximately 4.5 inches beyond the earlier model, with an overall length near 185.6 inches. This isn’t immediately clear from these pictures. Mazda states that the wheelbase has increased by three inches, resulting in a wheelbase distance of 109.2 inches. Additionally, it has increased in width by approximately half an inch. Mazda hasn’t announced the dimensions yet, but the expansion is said to make a significant difference in the amount of space available for people and their belongings. However, we’re glad about the change because one of the few drawbacks of the CX-5 being phased out was that it had less cargo room than most cars. The lift-over height has been lowered, and the back door opening has been widened. This should make it easier to load and unload groceries, bags, or the family dog. The 2026 Mazda CX-5’s base engine will be easy to spot when it hits stores, even though it’s not our best. The current 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, producing 187 hp, is being updated with a few minor software adjustments aimed at enhancing performance. However, it is not known what will happen to the 256-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which was optional on the CX-5 but is still available on the CX-50. The 2019 CX-5 will feature all-wheel drive as standard and a six-speed automatic transmission, similar to the 2018 model. The EPA estimates that the most fuel-efficient 2025 CX-5, equipped with the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, would achieve a total of 28 mpg, which could serve as a starting point for the new car. Mazda plans to introduce a hybrid CX-5 for the 2027 model year, catering to customers who prefer a hybrid engine similar to the one found in the CX-50. Why do I have to wait? It will differ from the CX-50’s engine, which is sourced from Toyota. Mazda is developing this hybrid technology in-house, and it is expected to be more powerful and use less fuel than a conventional engine. The CX-5, now in its third generation, boasts a beautiful exterior, and the interior still feels high-end, just like the exterior. The images depict what is likely the highest-end model. The upper parts of the doors and dashboard are covered with soft-touch materials that match the upholstery on the seats and center console. Mazda says the second one now features thinner headrests and seats that are shaped like bowls. More room in the doors is said to make it easier to get in and out of the CX-5 and put in child seats. Mazda says that there is more space for your head and legs in the second row. The back of the center panel features two USB-C ports, and the rear seats on the sides are heated. Whether for better or worse, one of the most notable differences between the new and previous CX-5 is the larger touchscreen infotainment system in the latest model. A 12.9-inch screen has been added as the standard option, replacing the previously available 10.3-inch screen. Google’s full suite of apps, including Maps and Play, is already installed on every new CX-5. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also integrated into the system. Mazda also stated that the rotary controller for the CX-5 has been removed, and more worryingly, that there has been a “strategic reduction of buttons.” Pictures of the available 15.6-inch touchscreen don’t show any real knobs or buttons for the audio system or climate controls. Where are you, volume knob? It’s unclear whether the smaller screen comes with extra parts. That would make the new method less user-friendly than the old one. The new CX-5 doesn’t have a push-button switch, unlike most of its competitors. Instead, it has a regular shift lever. Mazda hasn’t announced the price of the new CX-5 or any of its other key technical specifications. Since it will still be coming from Japan, the constantly changing tax situation may affect it. However, Stefan Meisterfeld, vice president of strategic planning at Mazda North American Operations, told Invoice-pricing that the company plans to closely monitor pricing to ensure the 2026 CX-5 remains competitive with its rivals. The SUV will go on sale in the early part of next year. Before then, we’ll learn more about the different trim levels and prices.
