Automotive
Mazda’s best-selling SUV simply acquired its largest makeover in years. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 debuts as an all-new mannequin, boasting a bigger footprint, refined design, extra cargo area, and a few critical inside tech updates. However in a transfer that will cut up opinion, the most recent CX-5 additionally ditches practically all its bodily buttons in favor of touchscreen controls.
The CX-5 may dwell within the shadow of newer nameplates just like the CX-50 and CX-70, however make no mistake — that is nonetheless the model’s bread-and-butter car. Actually, it helped Mazda obtain file gross sales final 12 months, and this next-generation model is clearly designed to maintain that momentum rolling.
One of the vital noticeable modifications is the scale. The 2026 CX-5 grows in each course, with a wheelbase that’s 3 inches longer and an total size improve of 4.5 inches. Now stretching to 184.6 inches lengthy, it’s proper according to fashionable rivals just like the Honda CR-V and Nissan Rogue. That added size helps resolve a couple of lingering points from the earlier mannequin, together with tight door openings and restricted rear legroom. Mazda hasn’t shared official inside dimensions simply but, however the firm claims the second row is now among the many roomiest in its class.
Cargo area additionally sees a bump. A wider rear hatch opening and barely decrease load top make it simpler to load cumbersome gadgets, whereas Mazda says the cargo space features 2 inches in size and 1 inch in total top.
Design-wise, the 2026 CX-5 carries ahead the model’s Kodo design language with some sharp updates. The entrance fascia now options stacked LED headlights, a sleeker “Wing” grille, and sculpted bumper accents that emphasize the SUV’s broader stance. Round again, the taillights have a slimmer profile, and a brand new MAZDA wordmark badge stretches throughout the liftgate, matching the emblem now discovered on the steering wheel. Sportier trims will trip on accessible 19-inch wheels.
Below the hood, the powertrain stays acquainted — for now. The 2026 mannequin retains the naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 187 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. It pairs with a six-speed computerized transmission and commonplace all-wheel drive, providing a strong if not earth-shattering driving expertise.
The larger powertrain information is what’s coming subsequent. In 2027, Mazda plans to introduce a hybrid model of the CX-5. Not like the CX-50 hybrid, which borrows its setup from Toyota, the CX-5 will characteristic Mazda’s personal Skyactiv-Z engine. It’s designed from the bottom up with electrification in thoughts and guarantees larger thermal effectivity and a broader powerband than the present Skyactiv-G engine.
Contained in the cabin, issues take a extra dramatic flip. Entrance and heart is a large 15.6-inch touchscreen, the most important ever provided in a Mazda. It runs a brand new working system with Google Constructed-In, giving customers seamless entry to Google Maps, Google Assistant, and extra. However right here’s the place issues might get controversial: practically all bodily buttons are gone. That features the standard quantity knob and Mazda’s acquainted rotary controller. As a substitute, drivers will work together with the system through touchscreen and steering wheel buttons — the latter no less than stay bodily moderately than touch-sensitive.
As with earlier fashions, the brand new CX-5 features a full suite of superior security options, and Mazda says its newest model of Superior Driver Help will embrace a couple of new capabilities. Particulars on that entrance are nonetheless beneath wraps.
There’s no official phrase on pricing but, however with the present CX-5 beginning at $30,265 together with vacation spot, anticipate a modest worth improve for the brand new mannequin. A beginning worth within the low $32,000 vary appears doubtless as soon as it hits dealerships later this 12 months.
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 might not be a revolution, but it surely’s a thoughtfully up to date SUV that builds on what individuals already love about it — with more room, a cleaner design, and a wholesome dose of future-facing tech. Whether or not drivers heat as much as the shortage of bodily controls stays to be seen, however there’s no query Mazda is steering the CX-5 towards a extra trendy and aggressive future.
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Mike Floyd is a finance govt by commerce and a automobile fanatic at coronary heart. As a CFO with a eager eye for element and technique, Mike brings his analytical mindset to the automotive world, uncovering recent insights and distinctive views that transcend the floor. His ardour for vehicles—particularly his favourite, the Porsche 911, fuels his contributions to Automotive Addicts, the place he blends a love for efficiency and design together with his skilled precision. Whether or not he’s breaking down trade traits or spotlighting rising improvements, Mike helps maintain the location each sharp and forward-thinking.
