Mazda North American Operations officially introduced the all-new, third-generation 2026 Mazda CX-5, marking a significant evolution of one of the brand’s most successful nameplates. Since its original debut in 2012, the CX-5 had become a cornerstone for Mazda, showcasing key brand values such as Kodo design and SkyActiv technology.
With over 1.6 million units sold in the United States and more than 4.5 million globally, the CX-5 stood as a powerful symbol of Mazda’s appeal. The redesigned 2026 model built upon that legacy with a bold new design, more advanced technology, and substantial improvements in passenger and cargo space, preparing the SUV for a new era of driving.
The new CX-5 embraced a refined and more assertive exterior, incorporating design elements inspired by the larger CX-70 and CX-90. Drawing on Mazda’s “Wearable Gear” concept—styling that merges functionality and fashion—the SUV’s proportions were optimized for a broader stance and greater interior volume.
The front fascia received a wider, chiseled design, anchored by the Mazda Signature Wing grille and new angular lighting elements. At the rear, a new lighting setup and bold “MAZDA” lettering offered a stronger visual identity. The updated body, inspired by traditional Japanese Kigumi joinery techniques, contributed to the SUV’s increased size: 4.5 inches longer in overall length and wheelbase and more than half an inch wider, enhancing both aesthetics and practicality.
Inside, the 2026 CX-5 offered a significantly more spacious, serene, and thoughtfully designed cabin. The interior featured enhanced materials, ambient door lighting in seven customizable colors, and wider door openings for improved accessibility—especially useful for loading children or car seats. Rear passengers benefitted from expanded knee, leg, and headroom, along with the availability of a panoramic sunroof.
The cargo space also grew, with a longer and taller cargo floor and a lowered lift-in height for easier loading. Complementing the physical improvements was a new 15.6-inch touchscreen—the largest Mazda had ever offered—with Google built-in, including access to apps, voice controls via Google Gemini AI, and real-time navigation through Google Maps.
The all-new 2026 Mazda CX-5 upheld Mazda’s longstanding dedication to vehicle safety, continuing its tradition as one of the safest models in its class. Building on its history as a repeat IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award recipient, the CX-5 was engineered with a comprehensive suite of both standard and available driver assistance technologies. This latest generation introduced several new Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) features, each designed to elevate driver confidence and provide enhanced protection in a wide range of real-world conditions.
Under the hood, the 2026 CX-5 launched with Mazda’s trusted 2.5-liter SkyActiv-G four-cylinder engine, delivering 187 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and came standard with Mazda’s i-Activ all-wheel drive system. The familiar 2.5 S powertrain—long recognized for its dependability and performance—was retuned for the new model to offer a broader range of driving dynamics. It provided sharper throttle response when needed, while also delivering a smoother, quieter ride during more relaxed driving, adapting to the driver’s intent with refined precision.
Mazda also confirmed that a hybrid CX-5 with the new SkyActiv-Z powertrain would join the lineup in 2027. Set to go on sale in early 2026, the all-new CX-5 set a new benchmark for what a compact SUV could be.