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When Mazda rolled out the 2026 CX‑5, the automaker faced a dilemma: keep the familiar feel that long‑time fans love or push the brand forward enough to compete with newer rivals. The result is a vehicle that feels both like a classic Mazda and a step toward a more modern, tech‑savvy crossover. The changes are subtle yet significant, and they reveal Mazda’s strategy for balancing heritage with progress.
Design and Exterior Evolution
The first thing that catches the eye is the front fascia. While the central grill remains a signature Mazda element, the surrounding layers have been refined, giving the vehicle a slightly smaller, more integrated look. The headlights, now a checkered LED pattern, sit closer to the grill, creating a cohesive front profile that still feels unmistakably Mazda. The overall shape of the car has not changed dramatically, but the extended wheelbase—about four inches longer—provides extra room for rear passengers and cargo without altering the vehicle’s silhouette.
Externally, the CX‑5 has adopted a more aggressive stance compared to its predecessor. A subtle accent in the wheel arch adds a touch of sportiness, while the overall proportions lean toward the larger CX‑90 or CX‑70, giving the car a more commanding presence on the road. The new design also includes a larger, 15‑inch touchscreen that sits prominently in the center console, a feature that many reviewers note as both a visual highlight and a functional upgrade.
Interior Comfort and Tech
Inside, Mazda has focused on practicality without sacrificing comfort. The cabin offers generous headroom—about 3.5 inches in the front and 2.5 inches in the rear—making it suitable for taller drivers. The seats are adjustable with two‑way lumbar support, though some would prefer four‑way adjustments. The rear seats fold in a 60/40 split, allowing for 66.7 cubic feet of cargo space when fully collapsed, a notable improvement over the previous model’s 33.7 cubic feet.
Technology has seen a mixed reception. The 15‑inch touchscreen is a welcome addition, but it is only available on the top trim levels, which some find inconvenient. The infotainment system integrates Google services, offering voice commands and app access, yet the interface feels a bit clunky compared to competitors. Mazda has also added a 12.9‑inch driver display, though it lacks the high‑resolution clarity that many drivers expect. Overall, the interior feels well‑finished, with a black‑plastic aesthetic that some reviewers find excessive, but the storage solutions—two levels of bins and ample cup holders—are practical.
Powertrain and Performance
The 2026 CX‑5 continues to use the 2.5‑liter naturally aspirated engine that has powered the model for several years. This engine delivers around 187 horsepower and pairs with a six‑speed transmission, available only in all‑wheel drive. While the power output is adequate for everyday driving, it falls short of the turbocharged 250‑horsepower option found in the newer CX‑50, and it lacks a hybrid variant that many competitors now offer.
On the road, the extended wheelbase translates into a smoother ride over uneven surfaces, but the engine’s lack of torque can make climbing hills feel laborious. Mazda’s decision to keep the same powertrain may be a cost‑saving measure, but it also means the CX‑5 will not match the performance or fuel efficiency of the hybrid‑equipped CX‑50. Fuel economy figures—24 city and 30 highway miles per gallon—are respectable but not groundbreaking, especially when compared to the hybrid RAV‑4 and other market leaders.
Pricing, Options, and Market Position
Price points for the 2026 CX‑5 start at $31,485 for the base trim, rising to $40,485 for the top‑tier Premium Plus. All models come standard with all‑wheel drive, and the higher trims add features such as heated seats, additional USB ports, and a larger infotainment screen. Despite the price increase, the CX‑5 remains a mid‑priced SUV, but it no longer offers a turbo or hybrid engine, which could deter buyers looking for more power or efficiency.
Mazda’s strategy appears to be to keep the CX‑5 as a solid, mainstream option while pushing the CX‑50 toward the premium segment. The CX‑50’s hybrid powertrain and more aggressive styling may attract buyers who want a more modern, eco‑friendly crossover, whereas the CX‑5 will appeal to those who value Mazda’s driving dynamics and interior quality without the premium price tag.
In short, the 2026 Mazda CX‑5 is a thoughtful refresh that respects the brand’s heritage while introducing enough new features to stay relevant. Its design updates, interior practicality, and extended wheelbase make it a comfortable family vehicle, but the lack of a turbo or hybrid option may leave some buyers wanting more. For those who prioritize driving feel and interior quality over cutting‑edge powertrains, the CX‑5 remains a compelling choice in the crowded compact SUV market.