2026 MAZDA CX-5

The Mazda CX-5 is all-new for 2026, marking its third generation. Some aspects are familiar, including the overall design and powertrain, but this new CX-5 is larger than its predecessor and features Mazda-first technology like an available 15.6-inch touchscreen and Google built-in. What remains unchanged is the CX-5’s fun-to-drive nature. Compared to rivals such as the Honda CR-V and also-new Toyota RAV4 in the cut-throat compact SUV segment, the CX-5 remains the one to pick if you favor athletic handling. As with all of Mazda’s SUVs, the 2026 benefits from standard all-wheel drive. A hybrid variant is in the works, but not until 2027.

We’ve logged hundreds of hours driving and evaluating this generation of compact SUVs, including the Mazda CX-5.

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 is all-new and now in its third generation.

One of the few things unchanged for the 2026 Mazda CX-5 is its powertrain. All models come with Mazda’s familiar 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that makes 187 horsepower. As before, all-wheel drive is standard, and the CX-5 continues to use a 6-speed automatic transmission. In a world of 8- and 10-speed transmissions, that number might seem low, but it continues to be well-matched for this engine and doesn’t suffer the CVT drone of others using the continuously variable variety. The formerly optional turbo engine is no longer available.

On paper, the CX-5’s power numbers actually lag those of competitors like the CR-V and Nissan Rogue. But on the road, the new CX-5 excels where it always has, as feeling spry and fun. Yes, it continues to do all the SUV stuff we want in our daily lives like carry people and cargo. But the magic of the Mazda CX-5 is that it’s imbued with an athletic nature. It’s the rare SUV that not only tolerates back-road antics, but actually encourages them with its taut suspension, snappy transmission, and overall excellent handling.

The 2026 CX-5 just as easily handles longer highway treks and congested commutes. We’ve long lauded Mazda for including active safety and driver assist systems like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping as standard. All of that returns and continues to work well. In the top trim, the system is enhanced with lane-change assist, which can automatically change lanes when the turn signal is engaged, the system is on, and it’s safe to do so. We found it works smoothly and as intended.

Fuel economy

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 is estimated to return 24 mpg city/30 mpg highway and 26 mpg combined. That’s down from 28 mpg combined from the last model, likely due to the all-new CX-5’s larger size. The 2027 Mazda CX-5 will offer a hybrid powertrain that will no doubt exceed these figures.

The Mazda CX-5 retains its 2-row/5-passenger configuration, but brings more room for 2026, along with what the automaker dubs a “calm, yet functional” space.

Minimalism is the key word here, with the center console looking especially stark now that Mazda has ditched the rotary command dial for its infotainment system. Speaking of, the new display is a touchscreen measuring 12.9 inches. Top-line Premium Plus models get a 15.6-inch screen, the largest ever in a Mazda.

We found front seat comfort good, and fit, finish, and color of materials retaining their premium vibe.

The new CX-5’s rear door openings are larger, which means it’s easier to get in and out, similar to the wide-opening doors of the Nissan Rogue. Rear legroom has increased over the last generation, now coming in at 39.9 inches. Cargo space has also increased, with there now being 33.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 66.5 with them folded.

The Mazda CX-5 is all-new for 2026, but the design has clear lineage to prior versions. This third-gen CX-5 retains the model’s signature curves and athletic stance. Mazda leaves the macho stuff to the more adventurous CX-50. Our eyes like it.

What’s not subjective is the new CX-5’s increased size. The 2026 model is 4.5 inches longer than the former one, putting this at 184.6 inches. That’s enough to give this SUV presence, yet still keep it firmly in the easy-to-park compact SUV class.

Innovative infotainment: Mazda has taken serious steps here, gracing its best-selling vehicle with either a standard 12.9-inch display or a 15.6-inch unit in the top trim. Yes, the system lacks physical controls, but we can say it’s very responsive, and even allows for multi-finger operation like pinch and zoom.

Special-folding rear seats: Like every SUV, the rear seats of the CX-5 fold in a 60/40 split. But unlike most others, the center section can fold, allowing a 40/20/40 split. This is great for passing through long items – or separating the kids.

Easy rear access: Speaking of the back, Mazda made the doors open wider than usual. This makes it easier to get in and out, as well as load bulky items like child seats.

All-wheel drive: It’s standard but still worth mentioning. All compact SUVs offer it, but few make it standard. Mazda does.

Athletic nature: Here it is, the CX-5’s je ne sais quoi. The CX-5 has long been arguably the most fun-to-drive mainstream compact SUV you can buy. Good news: That remains for this latest generation.

Not everything is new about the 2026 Mazda CX-5, most pointedly its powertrain. It carries over the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that makes 187 hp and 185 lb-ft of torque. It is still paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and has all-wheel drive standard. Gone, however, is the former turbo option, which was a zesty little powerhouse that made up to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque. Mazda says the CX-5 will eventually offer a hybrid powertrain, but apparently not the one that’s currently offered in the Mazda CX-50 Hybrid and sourced from the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. This new one is called SkyActiv-Z and set to join the lineup in 2027.

3-Year/36,000-Mile Warranty

Mazda’s new vehicle warranty is for three years or 36,000 miles, whichever happens first. Powertrains are covered for five years or 60,000 miles. This is all typical for mainstream manufacturers, although Hyundai and Kia do better.

Safety Ratings

The 2026 CX-5 has yet to be crash-tested, but it’s good to know the past model earned top scores and that this new one is fitted with a bevy of safety systems and active driver assistance features.