Vehicle Overview
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 showcases a bold and refined exterior design. Its sleek lines and sculpted surfaces create a dynamic and eye-catching presence on the road. The vehicle’s dimensions remain largely unchanged, maintaining its compact SUV proportions. Inside, the CX-5 boasts a spacious and well-appointed cabin. The high-quality materials and intuitive layout enhance the driving experience. The vehicle offers seating for up to five passengers and provides ample cargo space for everyday use or weekend adventures.
Key Features and Technologies
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 is equipped with an array of advanced features and technologies. The infotainment system features a user-friendly interface and supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The vehicle also offers a premium Bose sound system, providing an immersive audio experience. Safety is a top priority, and the CX-5 comes standard with a suite of driver-assist systems, including lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking.
Performance and Efficiency
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 delivers an impressive balance of power and efficiency.
Under the hood, it boasts a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates a robust 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. This potent powertrain provides ample acceleration and responsive handling. The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth and precise gear changes.
Fuel Economy
Despite its impressive performance, the CX-5 maintains excellent fuel economy. It achieves an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive. Opting for all-wheel drive slightly reduces fuel efficiency to 24 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
Drivetrain Options
The CX-5 is available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Front-wheel drive provides a more fuel-efficient option, while all-wheel drive enhances traction and stability, particularly in inclement weather or off-road conditions.
Handling and Ride Quality
The CX-5 handles with agility and precision, thanks to its well-tuned suspension and responsive steering. It offers a comfortable and composed ride, absorbing bumps and road imperfections effectively. The cabin remains quiet and isolated, providing a relaxing driving experience.
Safety and Technology
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 is equipped with an array of advanced safety features that enhance driver confidence and passenger protection. The i-Activsense suite of technologies includes:
- Blind Spot Monitoring: Warns the driver of vehicles in the blind spots.
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Detects vehicles approaching from the sides when reversing.
- Lane Departure Warning: Alerts the driver if the vehicle starts to drift out of its lane.
- Lane Keep Assist: Helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead.
Infotainment System
The CX-5’s infotainment system features a user-friendly interface and a 10.25-inch touchscreen display. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing seamless connectivity with smartphones. The system also includes a premium Bose sound system for an immersive audio experience.
Driver-Assist Technologies
In addition to the safety features, the CX-5 offers several driver-assist technologies to enhance driving comfort and convenience. These include:
- Head-Up Display: Projects important information onto the windshield, reducing driver distraction.
- 360-Degree Camera: Provides a comprehensive view around the vehicle for easier parking and maneuvering.
- Traffic Sign Recognition: Detects and displays traffic signs, such as speed limits and stop signs.
These technologies work together to provide drivers with a safe, connected, and comfortable driving experience.
Trims and Pricing
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 offers a range of trim levels, each tailored to specific preferences and budgets. From the base Sport trim to the top-of-the-line Signature trim, there’s an option for every driver.
Each trim level boasts a unique set of features and amenities, ensuring a tailored driving experience. Let’s explore the key highlights and pricing of each trim:
Sport
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- LED headlights
- Cloth upholstery
- 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
- Starting price: $26,000
Touring
- 19-inch alloy wheels
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
- Heated front seats
- Power moonroof
- Bose 10-speaker sound system
- Starting price: $29,000
Carbon Edition
- Exclusive Polymetal Gray paint
- Black 19-inch alloy wheels
- Red leather upholstery
- Adaptive headlights
- 360-degree camera system
- Starting price: $32,000
Grand Touring
- 20-inch alloy wheels
- Ventilated front seats
- Heated rear seats
- Heads-up display
- Navigation system
- Starting price: $35,000
Signature
- 20-inch alloy wheels with a unique design
- Nappa leather upholstery
- 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Surround-view camera system
- Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go
- Starting price: $39,000
In addition to these trim levels, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 offers various packages and customization options to further personalize the driving experience. These include the Premium Package, which adds features like a panoramic sunroof and wireless phone charging, and the Touring Preferred SV Package, which includes a Bose 12-speaker sound system and a heated steering wheel.
Comparison with Competitors
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 faces competition from several established and capable models in the compact SUV segment. Key rivals include the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Hyundai Tucson. These vehicles offer a blend of practicality, performance, and technology, making them popular choices among consumers.
To provide a comprehensive comparison, we have compiled a table below that Artikels the key specifications and pricing of these competing models:
| Vehicle Name | Key Specs | Pricing |
|—|—|—|
| Mazda CX-5 | 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, 187 hp, 186 lb-ft torque, 26 mpg city/33 mpg highway | Starting at $27,800 |
| Honda CR-V | 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, 190 hp, 179 lb-ft torque, 28 mpg city/34 mpg highway | Starting at $28,045 |
| Toyota RAV4 | 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, 203 hp, 184 lb-ft torque, 28 mpg city/35 mpg highway | Starting at $28,980 |
| Hyundai Tucson | 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, 187 hp, 182 lb-ft torque, 26 mpg city/33 mpg highway | Starting at $25,500 |
The Mazda CX-5 holds its own against its competitors in terms of performance and efficiency. Its 2.5L engine provides adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising, while its fuel economy figures are on par with rivals.
In terms of technology, the CX-5 offers a comprehensive suite of features, including a user-friendly infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a range of advanced safety systems. However, some competitors may offer more extensive tech features or larger touchscreen displays.
The CX-5’s strengths lie in its stylish design, well-appointed interior, and responsive handling. It offers a comfortable and engaging driving experience, making it a solid choice for those seeking a well-rounded compact SUV.
Additional Features
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 offers an array of additional features that enhance its functionality and driving experience. These include:
–
Enhanced Interior
– Luxurious leather-trimmed seats with adjustable lumbar support for optimal comfort during long journeys.
– Spacious and versatile cargo area with a hands-free power liftgate for effortless loading and unloading.
–
Advanced Safety Systems
– Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert to assist drivers in detecting vehicles in blind spots and preventing collisions.
– Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go technology for a more relaxed and comfortable driving experience in congested traffic.
–
Convenient Technology
– Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration for seamless smartphone connectivity and access to navigation, music, and other apps.
– Head-Up Display (HUD) that projects important driving information onto the windshield, reducing distractions and enhancing safety.
–
Distinctive Exterior Design
– Signature LED headlights with automatic leveling for optimal illumination and visibility in various conditions.
– Panoramic moonroof that provides an open and airy cabin atmosphere, enhancing the driving experience.
Questions and Answers
What is the fuel economy of the 2026 Mazda CX-5?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 offers impressive fuel economy, with an estimated 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway for the base front-wheel-drive model. The all-wheel-drive models have slightly lower fuel economy ratings, with an estimated 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
What advanced safety features are available in the 2026 Mazda CX-5?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. It also offers available features such as a 360-degree camera system, traffic sign recognition, and driver attention monitoring.
What is the towing capacity of the 2026 Mazda CX-5?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 has a towing capacity of up to 2,000 pounds when properly equipped. This makes it capable of towing small trailers, boats, or other recreational equipment.