2026 Mazda CX-5 Promises More Space, Greater Efficiency

Competes with: Mazda CX-50, Honda CR-V, Ford Bronco Sport, Toyota RAV4

Looks like: A downsized Mazda CX-90

Powertrain: 187-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine; six-speed automatic transmission; all-wheel drive

Hits dealerships: Late 2025

When Mazda introduced the CX-50 for the 2023 model year, many observers expected it to replace the CX-5. The former compact SUV is similar in size and price, and its name aligns with Mazda’s larger SUVs, the CX-70 and CX-90. Now that Mazda has debuted an all-new CX-5, it seems safe to say that it and the CX-50 will continue to coexist.

Related: 2025 Mazda CX-5 Review: Pace Over Space

Joining the Big Leagues

Its badging may not adhere to the two-digit convention of the larger Mazda SUVs, but the new CX-5’s styling is tweaked to mimic theirs. Slimmer, more angular headlights and taillights draw a family connection, and while Mazda has yet to release full specifications, it certainly seems the CX-5 grew taller. Mazda says it has increased rear-seat headroom and legroom, and the cargo hold is said to be both longer and taller, with a lower lift-in height than the outgoing CX-5. Overall length is up 4.5 inches, and those rear-seat and cargo-volume gains are likely in part due to a 3-inch-longer wheelbase. The new CX-5 is also 0.5 inch wider than its predecessor.

Not only is the 2026 Mazda CX-5 more spacious than the model it replaces, but it also promises to be more luxurious. The available 15.6-inch touchscreen is the largest display Mazda has ever installed in a vehicle and includes Google Built-In with voice controls. New seven-color ambient lighting and an available panoramic moonroof contribute to an upscale atmosphere. The cabin design is handsomely minimalist, per Mazda convention, and larger front and rear doors make getting in and out easier.

Something Old, Something New

Underhood, the 2026 CX-5 carries over its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. Making 187 horsepower and 185 pounds-feet of torque, the engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. Mazda made no mention of the outgoing CX-5’s turbocharged engine migrating to the new model, but it did promise a hybrid version will arrive in 2027.

Little is known about the gas-electric powertrain at this time other than its name, SkyActiv-Z. It’s likely to be new rather than the Toyota system Mazda adopted for the 2025 CX-50. In its announcement, the company refers to the setup as a “new hybrid powertrain to the Mazda family.” In other forthcoming tech news, Mazda says the new CX-5 will introduce “several new” safety technologies to its lineup.

Availability and Pricing

Though Mazda didn’t say for sure, the 2026 CX-5 likely will arrive at dealerships later in 2025. Pricing will be released closer to the start of sales.

More From Cars.com:

• What’s New for the 2025 Mazda CX-5?
• Mazda Drops Prices on 2025 CX-5, 2.5 S Trim Now Below $30,000
• Which Compact SUV Has the Best Real-World MPG?
• Which Compact SUV Has the Most Cargo Room?
• Shop for a 2025 Mazda CX-5 Near You

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