The 2026 Mazda CX 5 debuts with a bolder design, more space, and all-new tech inside. It starts with a 2.5 L gas engine and AWD, while Mazda’s first in-house CX-5 hybrid arrives in 2027. Expect smarter, more driver-focused performance and cabin refinement.
You love the 2026 Mazda CX 5 for its blend of driving fun and style. Imagine it, only more spacious, tech-savvy, and ready to help you go farther with less fuel—all without shrinking your joy behind the wheel.
Mazda’s third-generation CX-5 retains its familiar silhouette but reworks details into something elegant and modern. Expect a wider, sculpted winged grille, stacked thinner headlights, sharper tail lights, and new 19-inch wheel designs, along with “MAZDA” script on the tailgate not the usual logo.
The wheelbase stretches by 3 inches, overall length by 4.5 inches, and width by half an inch. That translates into noticeably more rear legroom, headroom, bigger doors and easier loading—plus a larger, lower cargo floor.
Inside, you’ll find elevated materials and a cleaner layout. A 12.9-inch touchscreen comes standard, while a massive 15.6-inch display with Google built-in (Maps, Assistant, Play) is optional. The rotary dial is gone—touch and steering wheel controls are the new normal.
At launch, the only engine is a naturally aspirated 2.5 L inline-four delivering 187 hp and 185 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic and standard AWD. Mazda says it’s more responsive and quieter.
The beloved 256-hp turbocharged option is dropped for 2026. If you want punchier performance, you might hold off or explore the CX-50/
Mazda is rolling out its first in-house hybrid powertrain for the CX-5, arriving in 2027. This clean, proprietary system won’t borrow from Toyota, and may eventually feature the upcoming Skyactiv-Z engine.
The hybrid variant is expected to arrive as a 2027 model, available late 2026 or early 2027.
The 2026 model features a 4.5-inch longer body, 3-inch longer wheelbase, and wider door openings, delivering better legroom, headroom, and cargo space.
Yes, Mazda confirmed the hybrid system is fully in-house developed, unlike the CX-50’s Toyota-based setup.
Expect a 12.9-inch standard touchscreen, optional 15.6-inch Google-powered infotainment, and streamlined zoning—no rotary knobs, purely touch and hard-button steering controls.
The gas-only 2026 model will likely reach dealerships by early 2026. If you’re eyeing the hybrid, your best bet is waiting until late 2026 or early 2027.
| Feature | 2025 CX-5 (Current Gen) | 2026 CX-5 |
| Length/Wheelbase | Standard | +4.5″ length, +3″ wheelbase |
| Engine Options | 2.5 L NA & 2.5 L Turbo | 2.5 L NA only |
| AWD | Optional | Standard |
| Infotainment | Smaller screens, knob control | Up to 15.6″ touchscreen, touch control only |
| Hybrid | Not offered | Arrives 2027 |
| Design | Kodo design (older) | Evolved Kodo—sharper, wider, premium |
“The 2026 Mazda CX 5 stretches its footprint and its ambition—more room, smarter tech, and a hybrid on the horizon.”
“Mazda keeps the CX-5’s soul alive—sporty, stylish, and now even smarter and roomier.”
I’ve always loved how the CX-5 feels effortless to drive—like a friend who knows the road and knows your mood. The 2026 version? It just grew up without losing that spark. Whether it’s thoughtful touches inside or the promise of a cleaner hybrid, it’s letting you take a little more of that joy along.
Jake Harlan is a seasoned automotive journalist with over 10 years of experience. From family SUVs to high-performance sports cars, he delivers accurate, unbiased reviews and practical insights trusted by enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike.
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