First Drive: 2026 Mazda CX-5 Grows Later, Adds More Features

Mazda’s midsize CD-5 gets a major makeover for 2026 and there’s a lot to like about the redesigned crossover which gets bigger, more lavishly equipped and, later in the year, will add the first hybrid drivetrain the automaker has developed in-house. Headlight.News headed out to California for a drive and here’s our review.

If you’re not familiar with the Mazda line-up – heck, even if you are – things can get a bit bewildering when you’re confronted with both a CX-5 and a CX-50. It’s the former model that’s getting a major makeover for the 2026 model year.

To help you get past the confusion, think of the CX-5 as more of an urban vehicle, the CX-50 targeting road warriors likely to spend more time on the road and want the features to match.

The more affordable CX-5 gets the spotlight this year, the third-generation crossover growing bigger than the outgoing model, for one thing, with updated technologies including the largest touchscreen in any Mazda product. What may prove particularly intriguing to potential buyers, however, is the new SkyActiv-Z hybrid powertrain.

To get a feel for the 2026 Mazda CX-5 I headed out to San Diego for a long day’s drive. Here’s what I learned along the way.

What’s new – design

The new CX-5 adopts what Mazda describes as a “more chiseled, wider-set look” than the outgoing SUV. It measures about 4 inches longer than the gen-2 model, with a 4.5-inch stretch of the wheelbase. It’s also 0.6 inches wider. Not a lot, but it contributes to what is, overall, a roomier cabin. And a larger cargo bay which provides 33.7 cubic space of space behind the second row. Fold that 40/20/40 split bench down and capacity jumps to 66.5 cf.

Add wider doors that will make it easier to get in and out, as well as a cargo compartment that is nearly 2 inches longer than before and about an inch taller. Again, by the numbers, the new CX-5 gets a new, 15.6-inch touchscreen, larger even than the 12.3-inch displays in the automaker’s two top-line models, the CX-70 and CX-90.

The cabin, with its new, color-selectable ambient lighting, is meant to provide what Mazda calls a “uniquely Japanese sense of craftsmanship.” Among other new features: CX-5’s first panoramic moonroof.

One of the more subtle new details: the 2026 CX-5 picks up on the latest industry trend, the name, Mazda, boldly spelled out on the tailgate where the brand’s familiar logo previously sat.

New powertrain options

CX-5’s base engine is a carryover package, a 2.5-liter inline-four making 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic. Where many competitors try to come up with loss-leader packages offering front-wheel-drive, Mazda is offering all trim packages with all-wheel-drive.

The package delivers 24 mpg in the EPA’s city test, 30 mpg on the highway. Gone for 2026 is the automaker’s turbo version of the 2.5-liter SkyActiv engine. But for those who want better performance, Mazda is getting ready to introduce a hybrid alternative.

Again, not to confuse matters, this isn’t the same gas-electric drivetrain found in the CX-50 Hybrid – which was borrowed from Mazda’s bigger alliance partner, Toyota. CX-5 will get an all-new, high-mileage alternative that Mazda developed entirely in-house.

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Driving impressions

Unfortunately, the new hybrid won’t be available until early in 2027. So, for this first drive I spent my time driving several trim packages equipped with the naturally aspirated 2.5-liter powertrain. To be honest, I’m a little disappointed Mazda didn’t continue offering the turbo option, as well. It delivered the sort of power that gave CX-5 an extra kick fitting for a brand long bragged about its zoom-zoom factor.

That said, the 187-hp I-4 is still a solid option, with more than enough power for most potential buyers. The throttle is responsive, if not overly inspiring when you nail it to the floor. Even when the hybrid finally does show up, according to U.S. brand chief Tom Donnelly, the base engine is expected to remain the top choice for most customers.

The good news is that the new CX-5 delivers a noticeable improvement in drive dynamics compared to the old model, in part reflecting the way it’s screwed together. There’s been a significant increase in the use of high-strength steel, for one thing. The ride is firmer – without being harsh. Steering provides just the right level of boost, with good feedback from the road. And the crossover is surprisingly quiet considering the class it competes in.

New technology and safety features

Mazda has a tradition of doing things its own way, and that extends to its infotainment technology. At least that was the case, the automaker being one of the last to forego touchscreens in favor of using a control knob on the center console – a huge 15.6-inch display on the premium trim, 12.9-inches on base models. That approach is being phased out, starting with CX-5, Mazda set to go with the tech flow by adopting a large new touchscreen using the Google built-in operating system.

The good news is that the system is far easier to operate and the navigation system, in particular, gets constant over-the-air updates, including traffic advisories. Better yet, the new, Google-based voice assistant doesn’t require a driver to learn arcane commands. Plugging in an address is no longer an exercise in frustration.

One thing I quickly learned to appreciate was that Mazda’s screen features a fixed “control bar” for key climate, audio and other vehicle functions so you don’t have to drill down through menus for the things you’re likely going to want to get to quickly.

Added use of high-steel strength, as mentioned earlier, is part of an upgraded safety system. Add 10 airbags for both front and rear occupants. And the CX-5 features an upgraded suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including active cruise control, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot assistance and sign recognition on all trims. Some of those features are high-cost options on competing products.

Pricing and availability

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 is a critical update in a segment that has become one of the U.S. market’s largest and most competitive. The 2026 CX-5 will go up against the likes of the Toyota RAV-4, Subaru Forester and Hyundai Tucson, among other alternatives.

CX-5 with the naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engine is now rolling into U.S. showrooms, with a base price for the S package starting at $29,990. Add $1,495 for delivery fees. There are four trims, topping out with the $36,900 Premium package.

Mazda has yet to set a price for the hybrid but it’s likely to come in a few thousand over the gas engine packages, if the competition offers any clue. Motorists who clock high mileage could wind up more than compensating for that in fuel savings after a few years, however.