Finally, it's the Mazda CX-5's turn! The automaker's best-selling vehicle in the U.S. is all-new for 2026. While its looks are not a dramatic departure from the current model, it wider, larger, and gains Mazda's newer design language that we love on the CX-70 and CX-90.
New looks include a Signature Wing front grille now flanked by LED headlights with a two-tiered DRL lighting signature. It also has a long 110-inch wheelbase, aggressive front fascia and new wide set 'Mazda' script in lieu of a badge. Navy Blue Mica joins the lineup as a new standard color and Soul Red Crystal and Polymetal Gray Metallic are thankfully still available.
Powertrain
The CX-5 will be available as a gas-only and a hybrid. The hybrid will reportedly go on sale in 2027.
First up, the CX-5 launches as a gas-only model still powered by a 2.5L inline four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. It's also still paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and standard i-Activ all-wheel drive (AWD). We are sorry to report that Automotive News reports a Turbo variant will not be offered, which is certainly disappointing.
Mazda says the powertrain has been updated to provide an even more intuitive interaction between driver inputs and vehicle response. Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) returns with Normal, Sport and Off-Road drive modes. Mazda also claims to have improved a ride and handling package which sees new shock absorbers paired with a new wheel and tire setup, along with the latest version of G-Vectoring Control Plus (GVC+) that now incorporates an electronic brake limited-slip differential to improve traction.
Cabin
Mazda says it's made the cabin of the new CX-5 quieter than the outgoing model. Its technology suite includes features like a large driver's display, an available head up display projected on the windshield and 12.9-inch or available 15.6-inch center infotainment display. The CX-5 is also outfitted with the latest version of the Mazda Connect system with an intuitive smartphone-like user interface based on Google built-in technology.
Safety
All CX-5 models include Mazda Radar Cruise Control (MRCC) with Speed Limit Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition, Rear Smart Brake Support and Rear Cross Traffic Alert with Pedestrian Detection, Smart Brake Support (SBS Front) and Turn-Across Traffic alert, Emergency Lane Keeping (Blind Spot Assist, Road Keep Assist and Head-on Traffic Avoidance), Blind Spot Monitoring, Vehicle Exit Warning, Driver Attention Alert, parking sensors (front and rear), and a rearview camera with dynamic lines and tow hitch guide for easier parking and low speed towing maneuvers.
The third-generation CX-5 also includes improvements such as an enhanced 360-degree parking camera, smoother radar cruise control performance, and the new Lane Change Assist.
Availability and Pricing
The new CX-5 will reportedly launch in the first quarter with a starting MSRP of $29,990.
For more info, including engines, trim levels, and pricing, click here.
