Mazda’s top-selling SUV is getting a major update for 2026, and it could be the most significant one yet. With fresh styling, upgraded tech, and possible electrification, this next-generation model is built to impress.
Early reports suggest Mazda is reworking this SUV to deliver more refinement, better efficiency, and a more premium driving experience, without losing the sharp handling it’s known for. A new platform could also bring improved space and ride comfort.
These changes are designed to keep Mazda’s best-seller competitive in a crowded compact SUV segment. Here’s what we know so far about how this popular model is evolving for 2026.
to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including TopSpeed and the EPA.
Mazda’s New CX-5 Is Larger, With a More Spacious Interior
Back when the CX-50 was introduced, many thought that the CX-5 would slowly be moved to the chopping block. However, it has remained the best-selling vehicle in the Japanese brand’s lineup for years and continues to sell the fancier CX-50. Mazda has announced a new generation for the CX-5 that aims to carry over the current model’s success, with some tweaks here and there.
Sleeker, More Modern Exterior Styling
Mazda has done a fantastic job at updating the styling of the new CX-5 without disrupting its identity. Compared to the rest of Mazda’s crossover lineup, the CX-5 has always been a boxier, more practical-looking SUV. The Japanese brand has updated it in line with their larger CX-70 and CX-90 models.
The one thing that we will say is that it might be hard for Mazda to distinguish the CX-5 from the CX-50 at this point, with both vehicles eating into one another’s sales. The CX-50 might have a slightly more rugged aesthetic, but both crossovers will now be similar sizes.
Bigger and More Spacious For 2026
The 2026 CX-5 will also be a half-inch wider than the current model, but more importantly, it will have a 4.5-inch longer wheelbase, which Mazda says will result in “best-in-class” second-row roominess.
Mazda has yet to release the actual interior dimensions of the upcoming CX-5, so their claim that it will offer best-in-class back seat space is something that is yet to be proven. The current model is pretty competitive with its rivals, though, meaning thata bump in sizecould definitely result in some impressive interior room. Cargo capacity has also reportedly been increased, and Mazda has emphasized that there will be a flat load floor with the rear seats folded down.
The brand has traditionally taken a sleeker approach to styling, which has sometimes had some negative effects on practicality. They acknowledge, though, that practicality is a big selling point in the segment, and they have aimed to improve things with this new model through things like wider door openings for better rear-seat access.
73.1 Inches
The Japanese Brand Introduces a Tech-Laden Interior
Mazda has been at the top of their game when it comes to interiors over the last generation of vehicles. They give off a more upscale vibe to a lot of their in-class competitors and come loaded with impressive features. The brand takes this further with the new CX-5, supposedly setting the standard for what we can expect from the next generation of Mazda vehicles.
Interior Design and Infotainment
One of the most immediate things that you will notice when looking at the cabin of the new CX-5 is that the brand has introduced a massive 15.6-inch infotainment screen on top trims, rising up from the dashboard. The base models will still feature a fairly large 12-inch unit instead. This is a shift from the brand’s previously more reserved approach when it comes to screens. The infotainment system features Google built-in.
The design direction in the new CX-5 is a big shift from what we’ve come to expect from Mazda. While they continue to deliver class-above styling and materials, this new model has lost some of the quirky character that made the outgoing generation so attractive to some. This includes removing the dial that controlled the infotainment system from the center console. Even the HVAC controls have been integrated into the touchscreen.
Key Tech Features
Mazda definitely continues to aim to be an entry-level luxury option with the new CX-5. This is evident in some of the core tech that will be offered in the new generation of the crossover. While the shift to a fully touchscreen-centric design ideology might be a little jarring, interior quality and standard tech will likely remain at the top of the CX-5’s class. Things like customizable ambient interior lighting definitely add to the compact crossover’s flair.
Mazda integrating Google software into the CX-5 will grant drivers a ton of new features that weren’t available in the outgoing model. This includes things like real-time traffic updates as well as the introduction of the Gemini AI voice assistant. Gemini might not be available at launch, but it will be accessible down the road.
The Same Engine Will Be Tweaked For the 2026 Mazda CX-5
Mazda is generally known for their knack for creating driver-focused vehicles. The CX-5, much like the rest of the brand’s lineup, has been praised asone of the most engaging vehiclesto drive in its class. While we’re missing some information regarding upcoming powertrains, Mazda has given us an idea of what to expect.
187 HP
185 LB-FT
Driveline
AWD
Initially, Mazda is carrying over thenaturally aspirated 2.5-liter enginein the current generation of the CX-5. Power remains the same compared to last year, but Mazda claims that they have tweaked the powertrain for “greater flexibility”. The brand claims that the powertrain will feel more responsive when driven hard and smoother and relaxed when cruising.
In a lot of other ways, the CX-5 stays the same. The same six-speed automatic transmission is used in this model and all-wheel drive is also standard. What they haven’t mentioned, however, is whether the 250-horsepower turbocharged engine will continue to be offered for 2026. This has been a favorite of driving enthusiasts, and it would be pretty sad to see it go.
Another thing that Mazda has confirmed is that their hybridized Skyactiv-Z powertrain will also be available in the 2026 CX-5. This will be the first house-built hybrid system made by Mazda. Their only other (non-plug-in) hybrid is the CX-50, but that uses the powertrain from the Toyota RAV4 hybrid. Mazda promises that this powertrain will deliver better levels of performance and efficiency compared to the gas-only base engine. However,the hybrid may take till 2027 to hit the market.
Safety and Driver Assists
Mazda hasn’t quite given us all the information just yet when it comes to safety and driver assist features, just that they will be bolstered. The current model already comes pretty well-equipped with features, so any upgrades will only make the crossover more competitive in its class.
While it is obviously yet to be tested, if this new generation of the CX-5 is anything like the outgoing model it will be one of the safest vehicles on the road. The 2025 CX-5 gets five stars out of five for safety from the NHTSA and the IIHS has also given it their Top Safety Pick+ award. As long as Mazda hasn’t tweaked the formula too much, the CX-5 will remain among the top picks for buyers looking for a safe SUV.
