2026 Mazda CX-5 Is a Bigger, Better CX-5!

It gets better in every way for this new-gen Mazda CX-5. I cover the mid-trim GS or Select / Preferred and the top GT-Premium / Premium Plus in this video.

Friend of the site Connie Peters looks at the 2026 Mazda CX-5.

Take a look at the video or transcript below to see what she thinks. 

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A transcript, summarized by AI and edited by a staffer, is below.

[Image: Video Thumbnail]

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Summary: 2026 Mazda CX-5 First Look and Review

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 receives a significant redesign that makes it larger, more spacious, and more technology-focused while maintaining Mazda's premium feel and driving refinement. 

What's New for 2026

• • The CX-5 is now wider and longer, increasing rear-seat and cargo space.
  • Exterior styling has been refreshed with a new front grille, updated rear design, and a more muscular appearance.
  • Mazda introduces a new logo, which appears on the rear and steering wheel.
  • New paint options include Arrow Gray Metallic and a new Navy Blue Mica color. 

Powertrain Changes

• • The previous turbocharged engine has been discontinued.
  • All 2026 CX-5 models use a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing:
  • 187 horsepower
  • 186 lb-ft of torque
  • Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
  • All-wheel drive (AWD) is standard across the lineup in both Canada and the U.S.
  • Mazda has announced a hybrid CX-5 for 2027. 

Driving Impressions

• • The reviewer describes the CX-5 as comfortable, refined, and easy to drive.
  • While not a performance SUV, it offers adequate power for highway merging and passing.
  • Mazda's seats and overall driving experience continue to be highlights. 

Interior and Technology

The redesigned cabin emphasizes technology and upscale materials:

Top GT Premium / Premium Plus trim

• • Massive 15.9-inch touchscreen
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay
  • Google Built-In system with:
  • Google Maps
  • Google Assistant
  • Google Play Store
  • Gmail integration
  • Fully digital instrument cluster
  • Head-up display
  • Wireless charging pad
  • Bose premium audio
  • 360-degree camera system with "transparent vehicle" view
  • Panoramic sunroof
  • Heated and ventilated front seats
  • Heated rear seats
  • Heated steering wheel 

Mid-level GS trim

• • Smaller 12.3- or 12.5-inch touchscreen
  • Wireless CarPlay and dual-zone climate control remain standard
  • Lacks the panoramic roof, advanced driver-assistance features, and 360-degree camera system found on the GT Premium. 

Practicality

• • Increased interior room benefits passengers and cargo.
  • Features include:
  • Flat-folding rear seats
  • Spare tire
  • Three child-seat tether anchors
  • USB-C charging ports
  • Privacy cargo cover
  • Rear heated seats on higher trims. 

Pricing

• • Base model starts around $31,000.
  • Top Premium Plus trim is just over $40,000. 

Overall Verdict

The reviewer views the redesigned 2026 Mazda CX-5 very positively. Key strengths include:

• • More interior space
  • Premium cabin quality
  • Large, modern infotainment screens
  • Standard AWD
  • Strong value for the price

The biggest drawback is the loss of the turbocharged engine, though the upcoming hybrid model may address that concern for many buyers. The reviewer believes the CX-5 remains a compelling competitor to the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 in the highly competitive compact SUV segment.

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