2026 Mazda CX-5 Debuts with New Styling Inside and Out

2026 Mazda CX-5

Today, Mazda pulled the wraps off the latest version of their ultra-popular CX-5 crossover. How popular? Well, Mazda has sold over four million units worldwide since its debut in 2012. The manufacturer is calling the 2026 CX-5 an all-new third-generation model, just perhaps not in terms of the powertrain; that returns unchanged for ’26 (see below). The big change there happens in ’27, when the CX-5 gets an all-new hybrid powertrain that Mazda is developing in-house, called SkyActiv-Z.

For now, The most significant changes happen inside, where we see the debut of an all-new Mazda infotainment interface, complete with optional 15.6-inch touchscreen display. Even though it’s much bigger than the outgoing model’s 10.25” item, it somehow appears more integrated into the dash. That could be because we’re all getting so used to seeing massive displays in cars and SUVs these days, but so be it. It’s customizable and also offers Google Built-In technology, providing Google Maps, Google Assistant and the ability to log into your own Google account. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will also be supported.

2026 Mazda CX-5

Other interior adds include larger door openings – thank the longer overall length and wheelbase for that – for easier entrance and egress and child seat installation. There’s also increased head- and legroom and available panoramic sunroof, which is a CX-5 first. Speaking of ambiance: seven-colour ambient lighting has also been added, with the goal of changing the vibe in the cabin.

The added space is a big boost, as the CX-5 has always been a great drive, if not offering the kind of interior space found in a Honda CR-V or Hyundai Santa Fe.

For 2026, the CX-5 gets the same 2.5-litre Skyactiv four-cylinder engine it had in ’25, with the same amount of power: 187 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque, paired with the same six-speed automatic it’s had since Humphrey Bogart was a big deal. It appears the turbocharged version of the gas engine won’t be returning. That’s a bit of a shame, but when you consider the impending arrival of the hybrid and the fact that around 90 per cent of CX-5’s sold came with the naturally aspirated motor, it’s easy to understand Mazda’s decision here.

Other than that, not a whole lot changes in the powertrain department past a bit of light tuning for more powertrain responsiveness.

It does get a proper styling boost, however, bringing it more in line with the likes of the CX-70 and CX-90 SUVs. The front end is wider and more chiseled, the headlights are more angular and there are new 19″ wheels to choose from. The taillight lenses get a chunkier look as well and in keeping with a popular theme in the light truck world these days, the Mazda logo on the rear deck has been replaced with large “MAZDA” scripting spanning a third of the tailgate’s width. It’s also wider than previous.

Now, about that hybrid…

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