Mazda CX-5 2026: five things you need to know
With over 300,000 units sold in Canada and 4.5 million worldwide, the Mazda CX-5 is an undeniable success. It's still the brand's most popular vehicle, although the current generation was launched for the 2017 model year, and a more modern CX-50 with optional hybrid technology joined the range three years ago (but is no longer imported into Canada indefinitely due to tariffs).
The all-new third-generation CX-5 2026, unveiled in the last few days and expected on the market in spring 2026, is a highly anticipated product. More details will be provided between now and its arrival. In the meantime, here are five things to know about it:
1. The new face of Mazda
The CX-5's design approach was developed around the concept of “wearable gear”, inspired by functional, elegant clothing that offers the right fit and style in a variety of contexts. It's the latest evolution of Mazda's Kodo design and a preview of models to come, such as the future Mazda3.
The silhouette changes very little, but lengthens by 11.5 cm and widens by around 1.3 cm, and is supported by contrasting black trim on the edge of the fenders and at the bottom of the vehicle. The new headlight signature and redesigned front bumper enhance the CX-5's appearance. At the rear, while the more angular taillights are reminiscent of those on the CX-70 and CX-90, the logo is replaced by “MAZDA”, a first for the brand.
2. A more spacious interior
The increased dimensions of the Mazda CX-5 2026, including a wheelbase some 7.6 cm longer, attempt to correct one of the shortcomings of its predecessor: interior space, especially for rear passengers and luggage. Along the way, the designers have enlarged the door opening and installed a new optional panoramic roof that accentuates the feeling of openness.
Mazda does not specify the exact volume of the trunk, but it has been increased by around 5 cm in length and 3 cm in height. What's more, the floor has been lowered by around 1.5 cm to facilitate loading, even with bulky objects.
3. A big screen... and Google!
Reneging on its principles and responding to a number of criticisms of its less-than-user-friendly multimedia system, Mazda is pulling out all the stops with the CX-5 2026. The new optional 15.6-inch touchscreen, the largest ever offered by the company, promises smartphone-like usability: customizable home menu, quick access to the most-used functions and even Google features are all on the agenda.
A smaller screen will inevitably be found in entry-level versions. And as you can see from the images, Mazda has eliminated a number of physical controls on the center stack (notably for temperature and ventilation) as well as on the console (no more big knobs). This will be quite a change of habits for drivers!
4. A single engine for now
Under the hood, the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine returns with the same 187 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. That said, Mazda has reworked it for greater flexibility and quieter operation. The six-speed automatic transmission and i-Activ all-wheel drive (standard) remain in place.
Too bad for performance enthusiasts, the same-displacement turbocharged engine (up to 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque) is dropped from the new-generation CX-5. Mazda Canada defends itself by saying that the naturally-aspirated unit “at times accounts for up to 90% of sales, and offers the right blend of dynamism and fuel economy that our customers are looking for and know so well.”
5. A future hybrid system
One year later, in 2027, an all-new hybrid powertrain will enter the scene. Mazda promises increased fuel efficiency and superior performance, without giving further details. At the heart of the system will be the new SKYACTIV-Z engine.
Whatever happens to the CX-50, whose electrified variant employs Toyota-derived technology, the future CX-5 hybrid should offer more power. Will it be more affordable? That remains to be seen.
