2026 Mazda
CX-5

In developing the third-generation CX-5, Mazda didn’t reinvent the wheel, but rather expanded on the compact crossover’s winning formula. When it reaches showrooms this coming winter, the two-row 2026 Mazda CX-5 will display a fresh yet familiar exterior plus a streamlined cabin and the latest technology. This evolutionary approach makes sense since the CX-5 has been the brand’s best seller in the U.S., selling over 1.6 million units since the nameplate debuted for 2012.

Notably, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 will gain a larger footprint, increasing its length by 4.5 inches while stretching out the wheelbase and width. These changes are expected to provide more space for passengers and cargo. Mazda is being a bit selective with the details on the upcoming 2026 CX-5. In the meantime, we’ve compiled this preview of what we know.

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Design and Styling

The next-generation Mazda CX-5 will showcase the brand’s evolving design language. This “Wearable Gear” concept, as the automaker calls it, is the latest take on their Kodo design. The front end will adopt a sharper, more angular look, with the trapezoid grille appearing more prominent with tighter integration into the slim-style headlights. At the rear, the lighting and badging will align with the CX-5’s larger stablemates, the CX-70 and CX-90. This treatment includes block-letter “MAZDA” branding in place of the traditional round emblem.

Mazda has said that its designers also drew inspiration from Kigumi, a Japanese woodworking style. This is visible in the way that certain panels and trim pieces come together. While the overall shape will remain familiar, look for 19-inch wheels as an option to give higher trims a more dominant presence.

Interior and Space

The redesigned Mazda CX-5’s larger dimensions will make the interior feel less confined, especially in the second row. Passengers in the back will gain noticeable improvements in legroom and headroom, and Mazda says wider door openings should make getting in and out easier than before. In particular, parents will find usability with child car seats to be better. Cargo space will also benefit from the longer floor and slightly taller opening, while the load height will drop slightly for better usability.

Higher-quality materials and finishes will bring the cabin in line with Mazda’s newer models. Seven ambient lighting colors will be offered for the front doors, and a panoramic sunroof will be available on certain trims. A revamped dashboard featuring a dedicated driver information cluster and an oversized infotainment display will lend to an uncluttered layout focused on simplicity. Mazda has also repositioned many controls onto the steering wheel for more engagement and fewer distractions.

Powertrain and Performance

Mazda is carrying over its acclaimed SkyActiv engine technology into the 2026 CX-5. At launch, the base powerplant will be a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine making 187 horsepower. A six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive complete the powertrain. It’s important to note that Mazda’s engineers focused on smoother operation and a quieter ride, without sacrificing the driving character the brand is known for. Mazda has stated that a hybrid powerplant will be added to the CX-5 lineup in 2027. It will combine Mazda’s new SkyActiv-Z gasoline engine with an in-house hybrid system.

Safety and Driver Assistance

The 2026 CX-5 will include updates to its suite of driver-assistance and safety features. Mazda says the new model will build on the current version’s strong crash-test results and IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating by adding more active safety technologies, but full details will come out closer to the wintertime launch date.

Technology and Infotainment

The highlight of the CX-5’s expanded technology will be a new 15.6-inch infotainment display, which will be among the largest in its class. Mazda has dropped the previous rotary dial control system in favor of a high-definition touchscreen arrangement. The new platform will run a Google-based operating system, giving drivers built-in access to Google Maps, the Play Store, and the Gemini voice assistant. The menu layout will resemble a smartphone’s home screen, with customizable shortcuts and a home screen tailored to the driver’s preferences. Navigation will include live traffic information and personalized routing options, while additional media and news apps will also be supported. Software upgrades will be received through over-the-air updates.

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