Mazda recently added a new compact SUV to its lineup with the CX-50 in 2023, but it didn’t drop the longer-running CX-5. It has remained on sale, receiving new technology and safety features to keep it current. It’s due for a complete overhaul heading into the 2026 model year.
2026 Mazda CX-5 Pricing, Specs, and Release Date
- What’s New for the 2026 Mazda CX-5
- Design
- Powertrain
- Interior
- Technology
- Safety
- Pricing and Release Date
- Further Research
What’s New for the 2026 Mazda CX-5
Mazda has completely redesigned the CX-5 for 2026, giving it a new look more in line with the larger CX-70 and CX-90. It offers more rear legroom and cargo space than its predecessor, and Mazda finally gives the CX-5 a proper touchscreen infotainment system instead of the often-frustrating rotary dial controls.
Design
The new CX-5’s look isn’t a radical departure from the clean styling we’ve seen for years. Mazda says the crossover features an evolution of its Kodo design philosophy. A new grille highlights a wider-looking front end, and the front LED lighting elements have taken on a sharper design. A new “MAZDA” lettered logo replaces the long-running round “owl” logo on the rear liftgate. A variety of exterior colours is available, though apart from the ubiquitous Soul Red and a couple of blues, the rest are monochrome shades.
Powertrain
Mazda plans to offer one powertrain for the CX-5 at launch, while a hybrid option is coming for 2027. The launch powertrain includes a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque. It comes with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. Mazda has published a highway fuel economy estimate of 7.9 litres per 100 kilometres, but city and combined ratings are not yet available.
Mazda hasn’t released details on the upcoming hybrid, but the specs could look similar to the recently released CX-50 Hybrid, which uses a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and a trio of electric motors that make a combined 219 horsepower.
Interior
Mazda enlarged the CX-5’s door openings to make it easier to enter and exit the vehicle as well as to maneuver larger car seats. The SUV has also gained more rear head, knee, and leg room, which Mazda says lets rear passengers stretch out comfortably. We don’t have exact cargo specifications for the 2026 CX-5, but the space has increased by roughly five centimetres in length and 2.5 cm in height.
Technology
The new CX-5 is available with a 15.6-inch touchscreen, the largest display Mazda has ever offered. The base touchscreen is a still-sizeable 12.9 inches. Both versions run Google Built-in, meaning functions such as Google Maps, Google’s voice assistant (which will be subscription-based and comes with a one-year trial), and other functions are installed directly into the vehicle. Owners can download additional apps through the Google Play Store.
