The 2026 Mazda CX-5 is a genuinely new generation of Mazda’s best-selling SUV, with a larger body, more rear-seat and cargo space, a redesigned cabin, new infotainment technology and a revised approach to the powertrain lineup. For the U.S. market, however, there is one important detail buyers should know: the 2026 CX-5 is gasoline-powered, while Mazda’s new hybrid powertrain is planned for 2027.
That makes the 2026 model an interesting transition point for the CX-5. Mazda has addressed some of the outgoing model’s biggest practicality complaints while moving away from its traditional rotary-style infotainment controller and dropping the available turbocharged engine.
After testing the redesigned CX-5, automotive publications have generally found that Mazda retained the model’s driving character while improving cabin space, cargo capacity and technology. Car and Driver’s instrumented review, for example, recorded a 16.2-second quarter-mile at 85 mph, while noting the improved rear-seat space and cargo area.
2026 Mazda CX-5: What’s New?
The 2026 CX-5 receives its most substantial redesign in years.
Mazda has stretched the SUV by about 4.5 inches in both wheelbase and overall length, while increasing width by roughly half an inch. The additional dimensions are intended to improve passenger space and practicality rather than simply make the vehicle larger.
The biggest changes include:
- New exterior design
- Larger rear passenger area
- Increased cargo capacity
- New dashboard and infotainment system
- Available 15.6-inch center touchscreen
- Standard 12.9-inch touchscreen
- Google built-in connectivity
- Expanded driver-assistance technology
- Standard all-wheel drive in the U.S.
- Revised 2.5-liter gasoline engine
- No turbocharged engine for 2026
- Hybrid powertrain planned for 2027
The redesign therefore focuses less on dramatically changing the CX-5’s identity and more on making it roomier, more technologically modern and easier to live with.
2026 Mazda CX-5 Price and Trims
For the U.S., Mazda lists five 2026 CX-5 trims:
| Trim | Starting MSRP |
|---|---|
| 2.5 S | $29,990 |
| 2.5 S Select | $31,990 |
| 2.5 S Preferred | $34,250 |
| 2.5 S Premium | $36,900 |
| 2.5 S Premium Plus | $38,990 |
These prices exclude taxes, title, license fees and the $1,595 destination charge listed by Mazda for most U.S. customers. Mazda notes that dealer pricing can vary.
The CX-5 remains positioned in the mainstream compact-SUV market, competing with vehicles such as the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4 and Mazda’s own CX-50.
Exterior Design: Evolution Rather Than a Complete Departure
Mazda did not abandon the CX-5’s familiar design philosophy for 2026.
Instead, the new SUV uses a more modern interpretation of Mazda’s Kodo design language. The front end has slimmer-looking lighting elements and a revised grille, while the rear receives updated taillights and Mazda lettering across the liftgate.
The proportions are noticeably different because the vehicle is longer and slightly wider than before.
The result is an exterior that still looks recognizably like a CX-5, but with design cues that bring it closer to Mazda’s newer SUVs.
Interior: The Biggest Practical Improvement
The interior is arguably where the 2026 CX-5 makes its most meaningful improvement.
The larger dimensions provide more room for rear passengers, including additional legroom, knee room and headroom. Mazda has also increased cargo space and made the rear area more useful for families and everyday hauling.
The larger door openings also make it easier to get passengers in and out.
That matters because interior space was one of the areas where the previous CX-5 could fall behind some competitors. The redesigned model directly addresses that weakness.
Cargo Space
Car and Driver reports that cargo capacity increases to approximately 34 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 67 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, compared with 29 and 59 cubic feet respectively in the previous model.
That is a meaningful improvement for buyers who use their compact SUV for luggage, groceries, outdoor equipment or family travel.
New Mazda CX-5 Infotainment System
One of the most noticeable changes inside the 2026 CX-5 is the infotainment system.
The standard center display measures 12.9 inches, while higher trims can be equipped with an available 15.6-inch touchscreen. Mazda describes the latter as the largest screen it has offered in one of its vehicles.
The system incorporates Google built-in technology and supports Google Assistant, with Mazda stating that Google Gemini functionality is planned for a future update.
There is also a major change in how drivers interact with the system.
The previous CX-5’s familiar center-console rotary controller has been removed. The new system relies much more heavily on touchscreen operation and steering-wheel controls.
That makes the cabin feel more contemporary, although drivers accustomed to Mazda’s previous controller-based interface may need time to adjust.
2026 Mazda CX-5 Technology
Technology is a major part of the new generation.
Depending on trim, the CX-5 offers features including:
- Large center touchscreen
- Google built-in
- Google Assistant
- Digital driver information display
- Available ambient interior lighting
- Smartphone connectivity
- Enhanced connected services
- Available larger 15.6-inch display
- Expanded driver-assistance systems
Mazda’s redesigned electronic architecture also supports a broader range of driver-assistance and connectivity functions.
The goal is clearly to make the CX-5 feel more technologically competitive without turning it into an entirely screen-focused vehicle.
2026 Mazda CX-5 Engine and Performance
For the U.S. market, the 2026 CX-5 launches with a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque.
It is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard i-Activ all-wheel drive.
One important change is what Mazda has left out.
No Turbo Engine for 2026
The previous CX-5 offered an optional turbocharged 2.5-liter engine that produced substantially more power. That engine is not available in the redesigned 2026 CX-5.
For shoppers who specifically want a turbocharged Mazda compact SUV, the CX-50 remains an alternative within Mazda’s lineup.
This is one of the biggest compromises of the new CX-5 for performance-oriented buyers.
How Does the 2026 CX-5 Drive?
The redesigned CX-5 continues to emphasize handling and driver involvement rather than simply chasing maximum horsepower.
Car and Driver’s testing found that the 2026 model retained strong driving dynamics while benefiting from the larger dimensions. The publication also recorded a 16.2-second quarter-mile at 85 mph.
MotorTrend similarly highlighted the redesigned model’s combination of improved space and familiar Mazda driving character in its first-drive evaluation.
The result is not a performance SUV, but the CX-5 remains positioned as one of the more driver-focused choices in the compact crossover class.
2026 Mazda CX-5 Fuel Economy
The U.S. 2026 CX-5 has an EPA-estimated rating of:
- 24 mpg city
- 30 mpg highway
- 26 mpg combined
Actual fuel economy can vary with driving conditions, weather, traffic, vehicle load and driving style.
The figures are worth considering because the redesigned CX-5 does not currently offer a gasoline-electric hybrid option in the 2026 U.S. lineup.
2026 Mazda CX-5 Hybrid: What We Know
This is where the model’s timeline becomes important.
The 2026 CX-5 is not the hybrid CX-5.
Mazda has confirmed that a new hybrid powertrain is planned for the CX-5 in 2027. Mazda says the system will combine its own hybrid technology with the new Skyactiv-Z engine.
Mazda has not provided all production specifications for the upcoming hybrid in the sources reviewed for this article.
That means buyers should not assume a specific horsepower figure, battery size, EPA fuel-economy rating or hybrid range until Mazda officially releases those details.
The company’s broader strategy identifies the in-house hybrid system and Skyactiv-Z as important technologies for its next-generation compact products.
Should You Wait for the Hybrid?
That depends on what matters most to the buyer.
The 2026 CX-5 is already available with the redesigned body, larger cabin, updated technology and conventional gasoline powertrain. Someone who needs a vehicle now does not have to wait for the hybrid.
However, buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency may want to compare the 2026 gasoline CX-5 with available hybrid competitors before making a decision.
The 2027 hybrid CX-5 could change that equation, but its final U.S. specifications and pricing should be treated as unconfirmed until Mazda releases them.
2026 Mazda CX-5 Safety Features
Safety technology is another area where Mazda has expanded the CX-5’s equipment.
Mazda says the redesigned model includes standard features such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, Mazda Radar Cruise Control, lane-keeping assistance and Smart Brake Support. New standard features include rear automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic braking and forward turn-across traffic braking.
Higher trims can add features such as adaptive front lighting and Cruising & Traffic Support with Lane Change Assist.
The important distinction is that these systems are driver-assistance technologies, not autonomous driving.
Mazda’s own documentation warns that i-Activsense systems have limitations and should not replace attentive driving.
2026 Mazda CX-5 Safety Rating
The redesigned CX-5 has also been evaluated by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
IIHS lists the 2026 Mazda CX-5 as a Top Safety Pick+ and reports good ratings in the small-overlap front, updated moderate-overlap front and updated side crash evaluations.
That gives prospective buyers an independent safety reference beyond Mazda’s own equipment claims.
What We Like About the 2026 Mazda CX-5
More Interior Space
The larger body directly addresses one of the previous CX-5’s practical limitations. Rear-seat and cargo space are both improved.
Updated Technology
The larger displays, Google built-in technology and revised electronic architecture make the CX-5 considerably more modern inside.
Standard AWD
U.S. buyers get i-Activ AWD as standard rather than having to select it as an option.
Familiar Driving Character
Despite becoming larger, the CX-5 retains the driving-focused character associated with previous versions, according to independent road testing.
Strong Safety Equipment
The redesigned model combines a substantial driver-assistance package with strong IIHS crash-test results.
What Could Be Better
No Turbocharged Engine
The outgoing CX-5’s available turbo engine is gone, leaving the 187-hp naturally aspirated four-cylinder as the U.S. powertrain for 2026.
Hybrid Is Not Available Yet
The hybrid powertrain is planned for 2027 rather than the 2026 launch.
More Touchscreen Dependence
The removal of Mazda’s familiar rotary controller puts greater emphasis on touchscreen interaction. Car and Driver specifically noted the loss of physical interior switchgear as a downside.
Fuel Economy Is Not a Standout
The official 26 mpg combined rating is respectable for a gasoline compact SUV, but buyers specifically looking for maximum fuel efficiency have increasingly more hybrid choices.
2026 Mazda CX-5 vs. the Previous Generation
The redesign makes the differences easy to identify.
| Area | 2026 CX-5 | Previous CX-5 |
|---|---|---|
| Generation | Redesigned | Previous generation |
| Engine | 2.5L naturally aspirated | 2.5L naturally aspirated + available turbo |
| Horsepower | 187 hp | Up to 256 hp with turbo |
| AWD | Standard | Available |
| Rear-seat space | Increased | Smaller |
| Cargo space | Increased | Smaller |
| Infotainment | 12.9-inch standard, 15.6-inch available | Smaller system |
| Rotary controller | Removed | Available |
| Hybrid | Planned for 2027 | Not offered |
| Overall length | Increased by about 4.5 inches | Shorter |
The biggest story is therefore not simply styling. Mazda has changed the CX-5’s priorities by adding space and technology while simplifying the engine lineup.
Is the 2026 Mazda CX-5 a Good Buy?
The 2026 CX-5 makes the most sense for buyers who want a compact SUV with standard AWD, improved interior space, modern technology and a more engaging driving character than some mainstream alternatives.
Its biggest limitation is the powertrain lineup. Buyers who enjoyed the previous turbocharged CX-5 will not find an equivalent engine in the 2026 model, while shoppers looking for a hybrid must wait for the 2027 version.
The redesigned CX-5 nevertheless represents a significant improvement in practicality and technology. The larger cabin, bigger cargo area, new infotainment system and expanded safety equipment address several areas where the previous model was beginning to show its age.
Final Verdict
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 is a meaningful redesign rather than a simple model-year update.
Its bigger dimensions improve rear-seat and cargo space, while the redesigned cabin brings larger screens, Google built-in technology and a more modern interface. Standard AWD and a broad suite of driver-assistance features remain important strengths.
The main trade-off is the powertrain. The 2026 U.S. CX-5 uses a 187-hp naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engine, with no turbo option. The hybrid version is planned for 2027 and will use Mazda’s new hybrid system with Skyactiv-Z technology.
For shoppers considering a CX-5 today, the 2026 model offers more space and technology without abandoning Mazda’s focus on driving dynamics. For buyers primarily interested in hybrid efficiency, the upcoming 2027 model is the version worth watching once Mazda publishes its final specifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2026 Mazda CX-5 a new generation?
Yes. Mazda redesigned the CX-5 for the 2026 model year, increasing its exterior dimensions and substantially updating the interior, technology and packaging.
Does the 2026 Mazda CX-5 have a hybrid engine?
No. The U.S. 2026 CX-5 launches with a 2.5-liter gasoline engine. Mazda has confirmed a hybrid powertrain for the CX-5 for 2027.
How much horsepower does the 2026 Mazda CX-5 have?
The U.S.-spec 2026 CX-5 produces 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque from its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine.
Does every 2026 Mazda CX-5 have AWD?
Yes. Mazda lists i-Activ AWD as standard on the U.S. 2026 CX-5 lineup.
How much does the 2026 Mazda CX-5 cost?
U.S. MSRP starts at $29,990 for the 2.5 S and rises to $38,990 for the 2.5 S Premium Plus, before destination, taxes and other applicable fees.
How good is the 2026 Mazda CX-5 on fuel?
Mazda lists EPA-estimated fuel economy of 24 mpg city, 30 mpg highway and 26 mpg combined for the 2026 CX-5.
Does the 2026 Mazda CX-5 have a turbo engine?
No. The redesigned 2026 U.S. CX-5 does not offer the previous turbocharged 2.5-liter engine.
Is the 2026 Mazda CX-5 safe?
The 2026 CX-5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ designation from IIHS, with good ratings in several major crashworthiness evaluations.
Sources & References
- Mazda USA — 2026 Mazda CX-5
- Mazda USA News — 2026 CX-5 Pricing and Packaging
- Mazda USA News — All-New 2026 CX-5
- Mazda USA — CX-5 Safety Features
- IIHS — 2026 Mazda CX-5 Safety Ratings
- Car and Driver — 2026 Mazda CX-5 Review and Testing
- MotorTrend — 2026 Mazda CX-5 Review
