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New Horizons for the CX‑5
The 2026 Mazda CX‑5 arrives as the brand’s best‑selling compact SUV, now built on a third‑generation platform that stretches the wheelbase by more than four inches. The longer chassis promises extra room for passengers and cargo, while the refreshed exterior keeps the familiar shark‑nose profile and clean lines that have defined the model for years.
Power and Performance
Under the hood, the CX‑5 still relies on a naturally aspirated 2.5‑liter four‑cylinder that delivers 187 horsepower and 186 pound‑feet of torque. All‑wheel drive is standard across the range, and the vehicle weighs 3,860 pounds. The six‑speed automatic is smooth, with a manual mode that offers six gears and a shift‑map that changes the steering feel and throttle response. The car can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just over eight seconds, a figure that sits comfortably in the middle of the segment.
While the CX‑5 does not yet offer a turbocharged or hybrid powertrain, Mazda has hinted that a hybrid version may arrive in 2027. For now, the single engine option keeps the CX‑5’s fuel economy at 26 miles per gallon, comparable to rivals like the Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson.
Interior and Technology
The cabin has been upgraded with a new user interface that replaces the old rotary controller with a larger touchscreen. The 10.25‑inch display is crisp and responsive, though the layout can feel unintuitive for some functions, such as changing radio stations or adjusting volume. Mazda has also added a 15.6‑inch screen on the top trim, which includes features like front cross‑traffic alert, automatic lane‑keeping, and adaptive cruise control.
Material quality remains a highlight: leather seats are made from real cowhide, and the interior surfaces feel soft to the touch. LED ambient lighting is subtle and recessed, and the trim has moved from a shiny piano black finish to a matte look. However, the cabin lacks wood or aluminum accents that competitors sometimes offer, and the seat adjustments are limited to cushion length without more aggressive side bolstering.
Practicality and Off‑Road Capability
Despite its focus on on‑road comfort, the CX‑5 still shows off some off‑road chops. In a test at Ridge Motorsports Park, the all‑wheel‑drive system routed power to the wheels that needed it, allowing the vehicle to navigate a rough course with minimal underbody scraping. The 8.2‑inch ground clearance and slightly reduced breakover angle mean the CX‑5 is not a dedicated off‑roader, but it can handle moderate trails without issue.
Cargo space has grown, with a maximum of 66 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded. The hatch opening is wider, and the spare tire is stored under the load floor. The interior also offers generous headroom, knee room, and legroom for a 5‑foot‑9 driver, and the doors open nearly 90 degrees for easy access to the third‑row seats.
How It Stacks Up Against the CX‑50 and Rivals
Mazda’s newer CX‑50 shares the same platform but is positioned slightly higher in the lineup. The CX‑50 offers a turbocharged engine and a hybrid option, and its trim starts at roughly the same price as the CX‑5’s top level. The CX‑5, however, remains the more affordable choice for buyers who want a well‑rounded compact SUV with a refined interior and decent off‑road capability.
In the competitive segment that includes the Toyota RAV4, Nissan Rogue, Honda CR‑V, Chevy Equinox, and Ford Bronco Sport, the CX‑5 holds its own with a blend of comfort, sportiness, and a well‑designed cabin. While it may not match the raw horsepower of some rivals, its driving dynamics feel elevated without being harsh, and the standard all‑wheel drive gives it an edge in varied road conditions.
Takeaway
The 2026 Mazda CX‑5 is a polished evolution of a beloved compact SUV. Its longer wheelbase, upgraded interior, and refined driving feel make it a compelling choice for families and commuters alike. While it still lags behind the CX‑50 in powertrain options, the CX‑5’s balance of comfort, practicality, and off‑road capability keeps it competitive in a crowded market.