2026 Mazda CX-5: Enhanced Design and Technology
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 has undergone a significant transformation, now sharing more commonalities with its sibling, the CX-50. Previously, the CX-5 was considered more suited for urban environments, while the CX-50 was marketed as a rugged, outdoor-oriented vehicle. However, with the latest redesign, the CX-5 has grown in size, boasting an extended wheelbase of 110.8 inches, matching the CX-50, and an overall length that brings it within 1.2 inches of its counterpart. This expansion directly translates into a more spacious cabin for passengers and increased cargo capacity, surpassing the CX-50 in these key areas. The focus on rear-seat comfort is evident, with notable improvements in legroom, knee clearance, and headroom, ensuring ample space even for taller adults. Wider and taller rear doors further facilitate access, and a redesigned liftgate provides easier loading into the generous cargo area, complemented by a 40/20/40 split rear seat for versatile storage solutions.
Inside, the 2026 CX-5 presents a modernized cockpit with several notable enhancements. A new steering wheel, featuring integrated controls and a premium leather rim, enhances tactile feedback. The traditional gauge cluster has been replaced with a 10.3-inch digital display, and the available head-up display is now more than double its previous size. The most significant interior upgrade is the infotainment system, which now features a larger 12.9-inch touchscreen, or an even more expansive 15.6-inch screen on the Premium Plus trim. Mazda has fully embraced touchscreen technology, doing away with the long-standing rotary controller and even physical knobs for audio volume and tuning. The system integrates Google's built-in software, offering Google Maps, Google Play, and the AI assistant Gemini, which can control various in-car functions, including climate. While convenient, this shift means that physical climate controls have been replaced by onscreen options, requiring users to navigate menus for certain features. Despite some trim differences, the front seats offer a comfortable blend of cushioning and support, and new two-tone color options are available for mid-level models.
Under the hood, the 2026 CX-5 retains its 187-horsepower 2.5-liter engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, with Mazda claiming subtle refinements to the powertrain logic. While this naturally aspirated setup provides a linear response, it prioritizes smoothness over raw acceleration. The turbocharged engine option, previously available, has been discontinued for this model, though a hybrid variant is anticipated to join the lineup next year. Fuel economy has seen a minor adjustment, with EPA estimates now at 24 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. In terms of driving dynamics, the new CX-5 maintains the agile and engaging feel characteristic of Mazda vehicles. Efforts were made to improve ride quality without compromising its renowned athleticism, resulting in a vehicle that handles road imperfections well while offering precise and natural-feeling steering. Safety has also been bolstered with new active-safety features, including automatic braking for cross-traffic and turning situations, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, traffic-sign recognition, and blind-spot assist, all now standard across the range. The vehicle has also achieved top ratings in IIHS crash tests. The adaptive cruise control system now supports automatic lane changes (initiated by the driver) and can adjust speed for curves and slowing traffic. With these upgrades, the pricing for the 2026 CX-5 ranges from $31,485 to $40,485, overlapping and even exceeding the base CX-50. Ultimately, both models offer compelling options for buyers.
The automotive industry is constantly evolving, with manufacturers striving to deliver vehicles that not only meet current demands but also anticipate future needs. Mazda's approach with the 2026 CX-5 demonstrates a commitment to enhancing the user experience through refined design, advanced technology, and improved practicality. This continuous pursuit of excellence in engineering and innovation is crucial for progress, ensuring that consumers benefit from safer, more comfortable, and more intelligent driving solutions. Embracing technological advancements while prioritizing driver and passenger well-being exemplifies a forward-thinking vision that benefits everyone on the road.