2026 Mazda CX-5 First Look: More Room, Bold Design—But No New Engine?
Mazda’s most popular crossover gets a new design, more space, but keeps its aging powertrain.
Mazda’s best-selling CX-5 is undergoing a full redesign for the 2026 model year, bringing fresh styling, upgraded technology, and a noticeably roomier cabin. Responding directly to customer feedback, Mazda has stretched the 2026 CX-5 by more than four inches compared to its predecessor. That added length translates into increased rear-seat legroom and expanded cargo capacity—two key improvements that should make it more comfortable and convenient.
Mazda is counting on the 2026 CX-5 to deliver strong results. It plays a crucial role in its lineup, competing against big sellers like Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Nissan Rogue. Under the hood, however, things remain familiar. At launch, the 2026 model will retain the current CX-5’s base engine, though a new hybrid powertrain will join the lineup in 2027.
Design Evolution
The 2026 CX-5 grows in size and presence, debuting a bold new design that remains unmistakably Mazda while incorporating modern styling cues. The headlights are slimmer and now feature updated LED lighting, giving the front end a sharper, more contemporary look. Mazda claims the front fascia is wider and more sculpted, though it’s difficult to confirm from the images provided. Glossy black trim surrounds the grille, lower fascia, wheel arches, and side skirts, lending the crossover a rugged yet refined appearance.
The 2026 CX-5 introduces design elements that are likely to influence the styling of future Mazda models. One notable change is at the rear, where the traditional Mazda logo has been replaced with Mazda lettering stretched across the tailgate. The taillights are slimmer and appear darker, drawing inspiration from the larger CX-70 and CX-90 crossovers. Dual exhaust outlets hint at the brand’s continued emphasis on sporty driving dynamics.
Mazda says the wheelbase has grown by about three inches, though exact specifications are still forthcoming. Overall, the 2026 CX-5 is 4.5 inches longer than the outgoing model, a change that not only enhances interior space but also gives the SUV a more planted, refined stance while enhancing its signature elegant lines.
Mazda aimed to look ahead with the 2026 CX-5, says Stefan Meisterfeld, vice president of strategic planning at Mazda North America. “We wanted to evolve the Kodo design theme that we’ve established,” he told MotorTrend. “The rear design leans a bit more toward the CX-70 and CX-90, but takes that language a step further. The front is also a new interpretation of what we’ve done before—still familiar, but unmistakably CX-5.”
Big Changes Inside
The most significant changes take place inside the cabin. At the center of the redesign is an available 15.6-inch touchscreen—the largest display Mazda has ever offered. Powered by Google built-in, the new infotainment system promises a more intuitive and seamless experience, with access to Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play Store at no additional cost. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also standard.
A smaller 12.9-inch touchscreen will serve as the standard display and is now positioned closer to the driver—a notable shift from the current CX-5’s screen, which sits higher atop the dashboard and is controlled by a rotary knob (unless the vehicle is stopped, in which case, confusingly, it offers limited touch-based inputs). The center console retains the familiar knobby shifter, but ditches that rotary controller for the infotainment system, because, again, it is now operated exclusively via touch.
From a design standpoint, the cabin feels clean, modern, and upscale. Mazda has been steadily pushing into premium territory, aiming to rival Japanese luxury brands while maintaining more accessible pricing. In addition to the new touchscreen interface, the interior features a sleek, dual-tone color scheme that enhances its sophisticated look.
Mazda says the 2026 CX-5 will have class leading knee and legroom in the second row, thanks to its longer wheelbase.
The steering wheel has been completely redesigned, featuring a flatter airbag cover and more streamlined buttons for a cleaner, more modern look. In a notable branding shift, the traditional Mazda logo has been replaced with Mazda lettering, just like on the back of the CX-5. Another major update is the fully digital instrument cluster, which is expected to come standard across all trims—a significant upgrade from the current model’s analog speedometer and tachometer.
Old Powertrain Stays
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 will continue to rely on the familiar 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine found in the current model. Meisterfeld said that approximately 90 percent of all CX-5s sold are equipped with this powertrain, which pairs with a six-speed automatic transmission. It delivers 187 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque—a slight drop of 1 lb-ft compared to the outgoing model. All-wheel drive remains standard across the lineup. When we tested this engine in a 2025 CX-5 Carbon Edition, we underlined the need for more torque, especially down low in the rev range.
