Meet The New, Larger 2026 Mazda CX-5    

Mazda is introducing the all-new 2026 CX-5. As we shared in our recent review of the 2025 CX-5, the SUV is the brand's best-selling vehicle in the U.S., so it's an important redesign for the brand. Mazda says since it's sold 1.6 million CX-5 models in the U-S since the crossover's debut in 2012. 

The new 2026 CX-5 is bigger that its predecessor, offers the largest touchscreen ever offered on a Mazda vehicle,  gains more space in the cabin and cargo area, and more.

Exterior 

The new CX-5 takes on the brand's latest design and styling cues from the CX-70 and CX-90. The front end is wider and more chiseled, with more angular lighting elements flanking the automaker's Signature Wing grille.

In back, you'll spot more angular lighting and new "MAZDA" lettering that replaces the traditional Mazda badge. New 19-inch wheels are also available. The design changes aren't just stylistic ones. They also result in an increase in size. The all-new CX-5 is 4.5-inches longer in overall length and in wheelbase. It's also over half an inch wider than the previous model.

Interior

Inside, you find an uncluttered, roomy cabin boasting carefully-crafted materials and finishes - something Mazda is noted for in its class. 

New for 2026: much larger door openings so it's easier to get in and out - as well as as making it easier to load in car seats.  Designers also enhanced room in the second row  with increased second-row leg, knee and headroom.  Also new: 7-color ambient lighting on the front door trims.

Credit: Mazda. 

The 2026 CX-5 also has a notably larger cargo area, which is now almost two inches longer and over an inch higher all.  It also features a lower lift-in height that drops over half an inch from its predecessor to make it easier to load larger items. 

The lineup also offers an available panoramic sunroof. 

New Technology

Technology gets a big boost in the new CX-5. There's a new available 15.6-inch integrated touchscreen display,  the largest ever offered on a Mazda vehicle. But best of all, it gets rid of the center console command dial! That's because the system now runs Google built-in. 

Credit: Mazda. 

It integrates key Google apps and services, like Google Play and new Google Gemini, an AI assistant from Google, which is coming soon to cars with Google built-in. It allows owners to take hands-free control of everything that matters on the road. Mazda says owners can speak naturally, ask complex questions, and steer the conversation with follow-ups—no need to memorize commands or phrases.  There are updates to Google Maps as well. 

Safety

The all-new Mazda CX-5 will introduce several new Advanced Driver Assistance System features, though its press release doesn't provide specifics.

Powertrain

The 2026 CX-5 will launch with a 2.5-liter SkyActiv-G four-cylinder engine which produces 187-horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and standard. i-Activ AWD. For 2026, Mazda says it has recalibrated the popular 2.5 S packege for greater flexibility, a sharper response and more relaxed, quiet demeanor, based on how the vehicle is driven.

A hybrid model will debut in 2027.

Availability

No pricing yet.  The new CX-5 will go on sale in early 2026. Car Pro Show listeners and newsletter subscribers can learn more about the all-new 2026 Mazda CX-5 here.