One of Mazda’s best-selling cars is back for a third generation. The new 2026 Mazda CX-5 aims to be one of the best SUVs by staying true to the brand’s reputation for stylish, driver-focused cars. It’s pushing into new territory with fresh technology, a new engine and a subtle design overhaul.
So, what’s changed, and should you wait for this new version before buying your next family SUV? Our man Jake Groves has had a close look, and here’s everything we know so far.
What’s new?
At first glance, you might wonder if this is really an all-new CX-5. And you’d be right that Mazda’s chosen evolution over revolution for the styling. But there’s plenty going on under the surface.
Outside, there are sharper headlights, new alloy wheel designs, and some tidying-up of the body lines and creases. One noticeable change is at the back, where Mazda joins other brands in swapping its traditional logo badge for a wordmark in the brand’s own font, part of a broader new visual identity for the company.
Inside, the biggest news is technology. The CX-5 becomes the first Mazda to run a Google-based infotainment system, bringing Google Maps, the Gemini AI voice assistant and access to apps via the Google Play Store. Depending on trim, the central touchscreen measures either 12.9 or 15.6 inches.
Production starts in October 2025, with the first European models expected to arrive in early 2026.
What’s it like inside?
Mazda interiors have long been admired for their quality and the clever use of proper physical buttons and rotary controls. Sadly, that’s an area where the new CX-5 might divide opinion.
The familiar centre-console click wheel has been binned, and many physical switches have disappeared, replaced by touchscreen controls. Mazda insists it’s kept plenty of physical buttons on the steering wheel, so drivers don’t have to look away from the road, but many of these are integrated into a single panel, making them difficult to distinguish by touch alone.
Despite this tech-heavy shift, the cabin remains a pleasant place to sit. The seats are supportive and comfortable, there’s good quality to the materials, and space in the rear seats is generous enough for tall adults to sit behind tall drivers. Boot space has grown to a roomy 583 litres, a substantial increase of 61 litres over the outgoing car. That makes it bigger than rivals like the Ford Kuga or Nissan Qashqai and competitive with the Hyundai Tucson.
The CX-5 will be offered in four trim levels: Prime-Line, Centre-Line, Exclusive-Line, and the range-topping Homura. Even base models include 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, digital instruments, a 12.9-inch infotainment screen and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims add luxuries like larger wheels, a sunroof, a Bose sound system and a bigger screen.
New Mazda CX-5 engines and transmissions
If you’re hoping for a broad range of engine choices at launch, prepare for disappointment. There’s only one option: a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre petrol engine producing 140hp.
That might sound modest for an SUV of this size, but Mazda likes to do things differently. Project manager Moritz Oswald says this engine delivers more torque than the outgoing 2.0-litre petrol, and the lack of a turbocharger improves responsiveness.
The engine is paired with a 24-volt mild hybrid system, giving a gentle helping hand to performance and efficiency. Officially, it manages 0-62mph in 10.5 seconds in front-wheel drive form, or 10.9 seconds if you opt for all-wheel drive. All versions use a six-speed automatic gearbox.
Mazda’s refusing to entertain a diesel option for this car, suggesting diesel fans look at the larger CX-60 instead. If you’re holding out for a hybrid, you’ll have to wait until the brand’s new Skyactiv Z engine arrives in a year or so, bringing proper electrification to the CX-5 range.
On the road, Mazda says the CX-5 will remain true to its reputation for enjoyable handling. The suspension has been re-engineered with softer springs and revised dampers and anti-roll bars, aiming to balance comfort with the brand’s signature driving feel.
What this means for you
The new Mazda CX-5 sticks closely to what’s made it so popular: stylish looks, a comfortable cabin and a reputation for being good to drive. There’s welcome new tech thanks to the Google-based infotainment, plus a bigger boot and a cabin spacious enough for family life.
But there are caveats. The single petrol engine option is relatively low on power and may feel underwhelming compared with turbocharged rivals. And Mazda’s move away from physical cabin controls could frustrate existing owners who love the simplicity and tactility of the outgoing model’s interior.
If you’re already a CX-5 fan, this new one will likely tick many of your boxes. But if you want punchier engines or the flexibility of a hybrid, you may want to wait until Mazda expands the range in the next year or two.
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