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Mazda CX-5 (2026)

Mazda CX-5 (2026)

74
BUYARY SCORE

Roomier, engaging, AWD-equipped family SUV, but slow and less efficient than hybrid rivals.

The Mazda CX-5 (2026) is a roomier, driver-minded family SUV for people who need easier rear-seat and cargo duty without settling for bland transportation. Mazda’s claims of improved practicality hold up, with a longer wheelbase, flexible 40/20/40 rear seats, and standard AWD earning consistent praise. Its steering remains unusually natural, and the quieter highway ride feels more refined, though some testers found the low-speed ride busy. The catch is the 187-hp engine, which is smooth but slow and less efficient than hybrid rivals. The fast Google infotainment modernizes the cabin, yet touchscreen-only climate and audio controls frustrate. At roughly $30,000 to $39,000, it is strongest in mid-level trims, with overall appeal shaped by space, value, driving feel, and tolerance for its compromises.

$29,990.00
Mazda CX-5 (2026)
Mazda CX-5 (2026)
Mazda CX-5 (2026)
Mazda CX-5 (2026)
Mazda CX-5 (2026)
Mazda CX-5 (2026)
Mazda CX-5 (2026)
Mazda CX-5 (2026)
Mazda CX-5 (2026)
Mazda CX-5 (2026)
Mazda CX-5 (2026)
Mazda CX-5 (2026)
Mazda CX-5 (2026)
Mazda CX-5 (2026)
Mazda CX-5 (2026)
Mazda CX-5 (2026)
Mazda CX-5 (2026)
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74
FIT
76
EXPERTS
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USERS
78
VALUE

Benefits

🧳
Roomier Family Space

Adults and child seats fit more comfortably, while flexible cargo space simplifies everyday errands.

🛋️
Quieter, Calmer Ride

Improved refinement makes commuting and family conversations easier, especially on longer highway trips.

🛞
Confident Everyday Handling

Natural steering and composed road manners make routine driving feel more connected and manageable.

🌨️
All-Weather Reassurance

Standard AWD adds confidence on snowy roads without requiring shoppers to choose a special trim.

📱
Faster, Clearer Tech

Google-based software responds quickly, making navigation, calls, and media easier to manage.

Trade-Offs

👆
Too Much Screen

Changing climate settings or audio means tapping through screens instead of using quick physical controls.

🔊
Noisy, Unhurried Power

Acceleration and passing can make the engine roar, while the SUV takes its time building speed.

🪑
Firm Seat Comfort

Some drivers may find the firm seats uncomfortable during longer trips, especially with limited adjustment.

🚗
Busier Low-Speed Ride

Sharp bumps can feel firm and unsettled around town, making slower streets less comfortable for passengers.

Mazda CX-5 (2026)

Alternatives

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 makes a strong case for standard AWD, a more spacious cabin, and engaging handling without feeling like a chore to drive. Its gas-only 187-hp engine can feel modest when merging or passing and lacks hybrid efficiency; shoppers prioritizing low fuel use may prefer hybrid compact SUVs, while larger families may lean toward three-row SUVs for extra seating.
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Publications

6 LEADING PUBLICATION REVIEWS


78
Logo of Car and Driver

Car and Driver is broadly positive on the redesigned 2026 Mazda CX-5, though its enthusiasm is measured. The SUV gains meaningful rear-seat and cargo space, sharper practicality, standard safety technology, and retains Mazda’s standout athletic handling and natural steering. Its ride is more compliant without sacrificing composure, while testing showed respectable acceleration, braking, and grip. The review’s main reservations are the unhurried naturally aspirated engine, slightly worse fuel economy, and the disappearance of the optional turbocharged model. More controversially, Mazda replaces its well-liked physical controls with a touchscreen-heavy infotainment system, including onscreen climate functions and no traditional volume or tuning knobs. Interior quality is also less impressive in the top trim than the CX-50’s. Still, with competitive pricing and no major dynamic weaknesses, the CX-5 emerges as a roomy, enjoyable, sensible choice—though its overlap with the CX-50 makes Mazda’s lineup confusing.

By Joe Lorio

May 14, 2026Visit Source →
78
Logo of Autocar

Autocar’s James Disdale and Richard Lane are clearly positive about the 2026 Mazda CX-5, though not uncritically. They praise its unusually engaging handling, quiet refinement, spacious cabin, premium-feeling interior and compelling £31,550 starting price, making it a standout family crossover for buyers who value driving involvement. The longer wheelbase brings useful gains in rear legroom, boot capacity and child-seat access, while the CX-5 remains composed and easy to place on the road. Performance is adequate rather than exciting, and the naturally aspirated 2.5-litre petrol engine feels old-fashioned beside hybrid-equipped rivals, with mediocre fuel economy. Wet and dry braking are also weaker than expected, low-speed ride quality can be brittle, and replacing physical controls with a large touchscreen undermines Mazda’s previously excellent usability. Overall, the CX-5 remains a highly appealing, well-rounded choice, but its powertrain and digital cockpit prevent an otherwise excellent SUV from feeling entirely modern.

By James Disdale & Richard Lane

July 20, 2026Visit Source →
78
Logo of Car and Driver

Car and Driver is broadly positive on the redesigned 2026 Mazda CX-5, though its enthusiasm is measured. The SUV gains meaningful rear-seat and cargo space, sharper practicality, standard safety technology, and retains Mazda’s standout athletic handling and natural steering. Its ride is more compliant without sacrificing composure, while testing showed respectable acceleration, braking, and grip. The review’s main reservations are the unhurried naturally aspirated engine, slightly worse fuel economy, and the disappearance of the optional turbocharged model. More controversially, Mazda replaces its well-liked physical controls with a touchscreen-heavy infotainment system, including onscreen climate functions and no traditional volume or tuning knobs. Interior quality is also less impressive in the top trim than the CX-50’s. Still, with competitive pricing and no major dynamic weaknesses, the CX-5 emerges as a roomy, enjoyable, sensible choice—though its overlap with the CX-50 makes Mazda’s lineup confusing.

By Joe Lorio

May 14, 2026Visit Source →
78
Logo of Autocar

Autocar’s James Disdale and Richard Lane are clearly positive about the 2026 Mazda CX-5, though not uncritically. They praise its unusually engaging handling, quiet refinement, spacious cabin, premium-feeling interior and compelling £31,550 starting price, making it a standout family crossover for buyers who value driving involvement. The longer wheelbase brings useful gains in rear legroom, boot capacity and child-seat access, while the CX-5 remains composed and easy to place on the road. Performance is adequate rather than exciting, and the naturally aspirated 2.5-litre petrol engine feels old-fashioned beside hybrid-equipped rivals, with mediocre fuel economy. Wet and dry braking are also weaker than expected, low-speed ride quality can be brittle, and replacing physical controls with a large touchscreen undermines Mazda’s previously excellent usability. Overall, the CX-5 remains a highly appealing, well-rounded choice, but its powertrain and digital cockpit prevent an otherwise excellent SUV from feeling entirely modern.

By James Disdale & Richard Lane

July 20, 2026Visit Source →
78
Logo of Car and Driver

Car and Driver is broadly positive on the redesigned 2026 Mazda CX-5, though its enthusiasm is measured. The SUV gains meaningful rear-seat and cargo space, sharper practicality, standard safety technology, and retains Mazda’s standout athletic handling and natural steering. Its ride is more compliant without sacrificing composure, while testing showed respectable acceleration, braking, and grip. The review’s main reservations are the unhurried naturally aspirated engine, slightly worse fuel economy, and the disappearance of the optional turbocharged model. More controversially, Mazda replaces its well-liked physical controls with a touchscreen-heavy infotainment system, including onscreen climate functions and no traditional volume or tuning knobs. Interior quality is also less impressive in the top trim than the CX-50’s. Still, with competitive pricing and no major dynamic weaknesses, the CX-5 emerges as a roomy, enjoyable, sensible choice—though its overlap with the CX-50 makes Mazda’s lineup confusing.

By Joe Lorio

May 14, 2026Visit Source →
78
Logo of Autocar

Autocar’s James Disdale and Richard Lane are clearly positive about the 2026 Mazda CX-5, though not uncritically. They praise its unusually engaging handling, quiet refinement, spacious cabin, premium-feeling interior and compelling £31,550 starting price, making it a standout family crossover for buyers who value driving involvement. The longer wheelbase brings useful gains in rear legroom, boot capacity and child-seat access, while the CX-5 remains composed and easy to place on the road. Performance is adequate rather than exciting, and the naturally aspirated 2.5-litre petrol engine feels old-fashioned beside hybrid-equipped rivals, with mediocre fuel economy. Wet and dry braking are also weaker than expected, low-speed ride quality can be brittle, and replacing physical controls with a large touchscreen undermines Mazda’s previously excellent usability. Overall, the CX-5 remains a highly appealing, well-rounded choice, but its powertrain and digital cockpit prevent an otherwise excellent SUV from feeling entirely modern.

By James Disdale & Richard Lane

July 20, 2026Visit Source →
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YouTube

16 LEADING EXPERT & INFLUENCER REVIEWS


63
Youtube IconConsumer Reports

Consumer Reports is disappointed that the 2026 Mazda CX-5 loses some of the character that once made it special. The redesigned SUV gains genuinely useful rear-seat and cargo space, a comfortable ride, strong visibility, standard safety features, and still-better-than-average steering. But cost-cutting is obvious inside, with more hard plastic and frustrating touchscreen-only climate controls, while the seats proved uncomfortable on a 150-mile drive. The familiar 187-hp engine and six-speed automatic feel noisy and dated, and lane centering is limited to the top trim. It remains practical and reasonably sporty, but feels more ordinary than its predecessor.

May 11, 2026
68
Youtube IconAuto Buyers Guide | Alex on Autos

Alex on Autos is notably skeptical of the 2026 CX-5, despite appreciating its handsome styling, much-improved rear-seat room, practical 40/20/40 cargo setup, polished cabin, and excellent infotainment. The bigger body finally makes it more family-friendly, and its steering and suspension remain engaging, but the unchanged 187-hp engine and six-speed automatic are glaring weaknesses: acceleration is slow, fuel economy trails hybrids, braking is merely average, and the ride can feel busy. He views the CX-5 as attractively priced and thoughtfully redesigned, but recommends waiting for Mazda’s 2027 hybrid unless value and driving feel outweigh efficiency.

May 18, 2026
63
Youtube IconConsumer Reports

Consumer Reports is disappointed that the 2026 Mazda CX-5 loses some of the character that once made it special. The redesigned SUV gains genuinely useful rear-seat and cargo space, a comfortable ride, strong visibility, standard safety features, and still-better-than-average steering. But cost-cutting is obvious inside, with more hard plastic and frustrating touchscreen-only climate controls, while the seats proved uncomfortable on a 150-mile drive. The familiar 187-hp engine and six-speed automatic feel noisy and dated, and lane centering is limited to the top trim. It remains practical and reasonably sporty, but feels more ordinary than its predecessor.

May 11, 2026
68
Youtube IconAuto Buyers Guide | Alex on Autos

Alex on Autos is notably skeptical of the 2026 CX-5, despite appreciating its handsome styling, much-improved rear-seat room, practical 40/20/40 cargo setup, polished cabin, and excellent infotainment. The bigger body finally makes it more family-friendly, and its steering and suspension remain engaging, but the unchanged 187-hp engine and six-speed automatic are glaring weaknesses: acceleration is slow, fuel economy trails hybrids, braking is merely average, and the ride can feel busy. He views the CX-5 as attractively priced and thoughtfully redesigned, but recommends waiting for Mazda’s 2027 hybrid unless value and driving feel outweigh efficiency.

May 18, 2026
63
Youtube IconConsumer Reports

Consumer Reports is disappointed that the 2026 Mazda CX-5 loses some of the character that once made it special. The redesigned SUV gains genuinely useful rear-seat and cargo space, a comfortable ride, strong visibility, standard safety features, and still-better-than-average steering. But cost-cutting is obvious inside, with more hard plastic and frustrating touchscreen-only climate controls, while the seats proved uncomfortable on a 150-mile drive. The familiar 187-hp engine and six-speed automatic feel noisy and dated, and lane centering is limited to the top trim. It remains practical and reasonably sporty, but feels more ordinary than its predecessor.

May 11, 2026
68
Youtube IconAuto Buyers Guide | Alex on Autos

Alex on Autos is notably skeptical of the 2026 CX-5, despite appreciating its handsome styling, much-improved rear-seat room, practical 40/20/40 cargo setup, polished cabin, and excellent infotainment. The bigger body finally makes it more family-friendly, and its steering and suspension remain engaging, but the unchanged 187-hp engine and six-speed automatic are glaring weaknesses: acceleration is slow, fuel economy trails hybrids, braking is merely average, and the ride can feel busy. He views the CX-5 as attractively priced and thoughtfully redesigned, but recommends waiting for Mazda’s 2027 hybrid unless value and driving feel outweigh efficiency.

May 18, 2026
63
Youtube IconConsumer Reports

Consumer Reports is disappointed that the 2026 Mazda CX-5 loses some of the character that once made it special. The redesigned SUV gains genuinely useful rear-seat and cargo space, a comfortable ride, strong visibility, standard safety features, and still-better-than-average steering. But cost-cutting is obvious inside, with more hard plastic and frustrating touchscreen-only climate controls, while the seats proved uncomfortable on a 150-mile drive. The familiar 187-hp engine and six-speed automatic feel noisy and dated, and lane centering is limited to the top trim. It remains practical and reasonably sporty, but feels more ordinary than its predecessor.

May 11, 2026
68
Youtube IconAuto Buyers Guide | Alex on Autos

Alex on Autos is notably skeptical of the 2026 CX-5, despite appreciating its handsome styling, much-improved rear-seat room, practical 40/20/40 cargo setup, polished cabin, and excellent infotainment. The bigger body finally makes it more family-friendly, and its steering and suspension remain engaging, but the unchanged 187-hp engine and six-speed automatic are glaring weaknesses: acceleration is slow, fuel economy trails hybrids, braking is merely average, and the ride can feel busy. He views the CX-5 as attractively priced and thoughtfully redesigned, but recommends waiting for Mazda’s 2027 hybrid unless value and driving feel outweigh efficiency.

May 18, 2026
63
Youtube IconConsumer Reports

Consumer Reports is disappointed that the 2026 Mazda CX-5 loses some of the character that once made it special. The redesigned SUV gains genuinely useful rear-seat and cargo space, a comfortable ride, strong visibility, standard safety features, and still-better-than-average steering. But cost-cutting is obvious inside, with more hard plastic and frustrating touchscreen-only climate controls, while the seats proved uncomfortable on a 150-mile drive. The familiar 187-hp engine and six-speed automatic feel noisy and dated, and lane centering is limited to the top trim. It remains practical and reasonably sporty, but feels more ordinary than its predecessor.

May 11, 2026
68
Youtube IconAuto Buyers Guide | Alex on Autos

Alex on Autos is notably skeptical of the 2026 CX-5, despite appreciating its handsome styling, much-improved rear-seat room, practical 40/20/40 cargo setup, polished cabin, and excellent infotainment. The bigger body finally makes it more family-friendly, and its steering and suspension remain engaging, but the unchanged 187-hp engine and six-speed automatic are glaring weaknesses: acceleration is slow, fuel economy trails hybrids, braking is merely average, and the ride can feel busy. He views the CX-5 as attractively priced and thoughtfully redesigned, but recommends waiting for Mazda’s 2027 hybrid unless value and driving feel outweigh efficiency.

May 18, 2026
63
Youtube IconConsumer Reports

Consumer Reports is disappointed that the 2026 Mazda CX-5 loses some of the character that once made it special. The redesigned SUV gains genuinely useful rear-seat and cargo space, a comfortable ride, strong visibility, standard safety features, and still-better-than-average steering. But cost-cutting is obvious inside, with more hard plastic and frustrating touchscreen-only climate controls, while the seats proved uncomfortable on a 150-mile drive. The familiar 187-hp engine and six-speed automatic feel noisy and dated, and lane centering is limited to the top trim. It remains practical and reasonably sporty, but feels more ordinary than its predecessor.

May 11, 2026
68
Youtube IconAuto Buyers Guide | Alex on Autos

Alex on Autos is notably skeptical of the 2026 CX-5, despite appreciating its handsome styling, much-improved rear-seat room, practical 40/20/40 cargo setup, polished cabin, and excellent infotainment. The bigger body finally makes it more family-friendly, and its steering and suspension remain engaging, but the unchanged 187-hp engine and six-speed automatic are glaring weaknesses: acceleration is slow, fuel economy trails hybrids, braking is merely average, and the ride can feel busy. He views the CX-5 as attractively priced and thoughtfully redesigned, but recommends waiting for Mazda’s 2027 hybrid unless value and driving feel outweigh efficiency.

May 18, 2026
63
Youtube IconConsumer Reports

Consumer Reports is disappointed that the 2026 Mazda CX-5 loses some of the character that once made it special. The redesigned SUV gains genuinely useful rear-seat and cargo space, a comfortable ride, strong visibility, standard safety features, and still-better-than-average steering. But cost-cutting is obvious inside, with more hard plastic and frustrating touchscreen-only climate controls, while the seats proved uncomfortable on a 150-mile drive. The familiar 187-hp engine and six-speed automatic feel noisy and dated, and lane centering is limited to the top trim. It remains practical and reasonably sporty, but feels more ordinary than its predecessor.

May 11, 2026
68
Youtube IconAuto Buyers Guide | Alex on Autos

Alex on Autos is notably skeptical of the 2026 CX-5, despite appreciating its handsome styling, much-improved rear-seat room, practical 40/20/40 cargo setup, polished cabin, and excellent infotainment. The bigger body finally makes it more family-friendly, and its steering and suspension remain engaging, but the unchanged 187-hp engine and six-speed automatic are glaring weaknesses: acceleration is slow, fuel economy trails hybrids, braking is merely average, and the ride can feel busy. He views the CX-5 as attractively priced and thoughtfully redesigned, but recommends waiting for Mazda’s 2027 hybrid unless value and driving feel outweigh efficiency.

May 18, 2026
63
Youtube IconConsumer Reports

Consumer Reports is disappointed that the 2026 Mazda CX-5 loses some of the character that once made it special. The redesigned SUV gains genuinely useful rear-seat and cargo space, a comfortable ride, strong visibility, standard safety features, and still-better-than-average steering. But cost-cutting is obvious inside, with more hard plastic and frustrating touchscreen-only climate controls, while the seats proved uncomfortable on a 150-mile drive. The familiar 187-hp engine and six-speed automatic feel noisy and dated, and lane centering is limited to the top trim. It remains practical and reasonably sporty, but feels more ordinary than its predecessor.

May 11, 2026
68
Youtube IconAuto Buyers Guide | Alex on Autos

Alex on Autos is notably skeptical of the 2026 CX-5, despite appreciating its handsome styling, much-improved rear-seat room, practical 40/20/40 cargo setup, polished cabin, and excellent infotainment. The bigger body finally makes it more family-friendly, and its steering and suspension remain engaging, but the unchanged 187-hp engine and six-speed automatic are glaring weaknesses: acceleration is slow, fuel economy trails hybrids, braking is merely average, and the ride can feel busy. He views the CX-5 as attractively priced and thoughtfully redesigned, but recommends waiting for Mazda’s 2027 hybrid unless value and driving feel outweigh efficiency.

May 18, 2026

Social

3 INFLUENCER REVIEWS


78
Instagram IconMicah Muzio

Micah Muzio is cautiously positive about the 2026 Mazda CX-5’s unchanged powertrain. He points out that the familiar engine produces no extra power, retains the six-speed automatic, and launches without the turbocharged option, making the update initially disappointing. Still, real-world driving changes his view: acceleration is adequate, downshifts are impressively quick, and the transmission shifts subtly in normal driving while Sport mode holds revs for quicker response. The CX-5 is not thrillingly fast, but Muzio finds its drivetrain more effective and better integrated than its carryover specifications suggest.

March 24, 2026
81
Instagram IconCar Confections

Car Confections is highly positive about the 2026 Mazda CX-5’s value and upgraded cabin. For roughly $32,000, it offers attractive styling, standard all-wheel drive, leatherette and cloth seats, wireless charging, a 12-inch display with Google Maps, digital gauges, and substantially more cargo room, now approaching RAV4 practicality. The 187-horsepower engine and 26-mpg rating are respectable, while the ride is more comfortable than before. The main omission is a hybrid option, which Mazda says is coming later. Overall, it feels like an impressively well-equipped, affordable CX-5, though the endorsement remains measured rather than exuberant.

May 17, 2026
78
Instagram IconMicah Muzio

Micah Muzio is cautiously positive about the 2026 Mazda CX-5’s unchanged powertrain. He points out that the familiar engine produces no extra power, retains the six-speed automatic, and launches without the turbocharged option, making the update initially disappointing. Still, real-world driving changes his view: acceleration is adequate, downshifts are impressively quick, and the transmission shifts subtly in normal driving while Sport mode holds revs for quicker response. The CX-5 is not thrillingly fast, but Muzio finds its drivetrain more effective and better integrated than its carryover specifications suggest.

March 24, 2026
81
Instagram IconCar Confections

Car Confections is highly positive about the 2026 Mazda CX-5’s value and upgraded cabin. For roughly $32,000, it offers attractive styling, standard all-wheel drive, leatherette and cloth seats, wireless charging, a 12-inch display with Google Maps, digital gauges, and substantially more cargo room, now approaching RAV4 practicality. The 187-horsepower engine and 26-mpg rating are respectable, while the ride is more comfortable than before. The main omission is a hybrid option, which Mazda says is coming later. Overall, it feels like an impressively well-equipped, affordable CX-5, though the endorsement remains measured rather than exuberant.

May 17, 2026
Forum Icon

Forum Reviews

CUSTOMER REVIEWS FROM 1 FORUM


TBD
Logo of Reddit

Redditors are divided on the 2026 Mazda CX-5, with enthusiasm tempered by meaningful compromises. Owners praise its attractive styling, solid handling, quiet ride, practicality, reliability, and comfortable driving position, while many new shoppers appreciate the larger cabin and modern look. The biggest objections are the loss of the turbo, modest power, mediocre fuel economy, cheaper-feeling materials, and replacing Mazda’s well-liked physical controls with an expansive touchscreen. Safety and usability concerns follow, especially for climate controls and glitchy infotainment. Enthusiasts often prefer discounted 2025 turbo models, but broader buyers may find the 2026 a sensible, good-value family SUV.

Many comments

Scales Icon

In-Depth Review

Highlights Icon

Highlights

  • Roomier Family Space
    Longer wheelbase improves rear-seat usability.
  • Engaging Road Manners
    Reviewers consistently note natural, communicative steering.
  • Flexible Cargo Layout
    40/20/40 seating expands loading options.
  • Quick Google Infotainment
    Designed to simplify navigation, calls, and media.
Considerations Icon

Considerations

  • Unhurried Acceleration
    The 187-hp engine feels slow when passing.
  • Touchscreen Controls
    Climate and audio adjustments require distracting taps.
  • Average Fuel Economy
    Gas-only power trails hybrid-equipped competitors.
  • Firm Seat Comfort
    Firm seats can become uncomfortable on long trips.

Mazda’s 2026 CX-5 turns its sporty compact-SUV reputation toward practical family duty. The longer wheelbase brings genuinely useful improved rear-seat room, while standard all-wheel drive and a flexible 40/20/40 seat help commuters, small families, and snow-belt shoppers. It still aims to feel more engaging than a CR-V or RAV4, with natural steering and composed road manners, but the carryover 187-hp naturally aspirated engine gives up pace and efficiency to turbocharged and hybrid rivals. Review feedback also points to a quieter highway ride, mixed low-speed comfort, polished design, and a responsive Google-based interface—alongside harder plastics and distracting touchscreen controls. Before choosing one, weigh its family-friendly packaging against 26-mpg combined fuel economy, cabin usability, and braking confidence. The CX-5 may be roomier without becoming ordinary, but these details decide whether it fits your driveway or merely your shortlist.

Mazda CX-5 (2026)

Calmer, Mixed Ride

The redesigned CX-5 is generally quieter and more comfortable at speed. Mazda’s revised chassis delivers a more compliant highway ride while retaining composure, and improved refinement helps conversations and long trips. However, feedback is not uniformly glowing: some evaluations report a busy low-speed ride over sharp bumps, while firm seats can become uncomfortable on extended drives. Road noise and the loss of acoustic glass are additional caveats, so the CX-5’s refinement is strongest on smooth highways rather than broken urban pavement.

Adequate, Not Quick

The carryover powertrain is the clearest compromise. The 187-hp 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine works smoothly for ordinary driving, and the six-speed automatic can deliver quick downshifts in Sport mode. Still, reviewers commonly describe acceleration as slow or merely adequate, with testing around 8.5 seconds from 0 to 60 mph and noticeable engine noise during passing. The 26-mpg combined rating also trails hybrid rivals, while the missing turbo and delayed hybrid option limit its appeal for efficiency- or performance-minded buyers.

Roomier Family Utility

The CX-5 finally feels genuinely useful for families. Mazda’s 4.5-inch longer wheelbase opens up noticeably better second-row legroom, with easier child-seat access and more comfortable space for adults. Its 40/20/40 split-fold rear seat adds flexibility beyond a typical 60/40 bench, while the lower lift-over height and expanded cargo area make loading easier. Listed capacity reaches 33.7 cubic feet, though shoppers should compare the exact measurement method with CR-V, RAV4, and Forester figures.

Mazda CX-5 (2026)

Engaging Steering Feel

The CX-5 remains more involving than most compact SUVs. Its natural, communicative steering helps the vehicle feel easy to place, and the multi-link rear suspension contributes to controlled body movements through corners. Direct feedback from reviewers supports Mazda’s driver-focused claim, although some testing describes the redesigned model as softer and less playful than the outgoing CX-5. It is enjoyable for commuting and winding roads, but not a performance SUV, especially with the heavier body and added practicality.

Mazda CX-5 (2026)

Secure Everyday Control

The CX-5 provides reassuring road manners, though testing reveals some variation. Standard i-Activ AWD supports traction in snow and light off-road conditions, and reviewers generally find braking predictable with solid grip. Mazda’s available trail-view camera and hill-descent capability further broaden its all-weather usefulness. However, braking performance has been called average in some evaluations, and inconsistent wheel-braking behavior and dated driver assistance temper the confidence. It feels secure for normal family driving, but not exceptionally sporty or adventure-focused.

Mazda CX-5 (2026)

Upscale With Caveats

The cabin looks polished, but its premium impression depends on trim and touchpoints. Reviewers praise the clean design and improved fit and finish, along with the fast Google-based infotainment system and large 12.9-inch touchscreen. Yet some testing finds more hard plastic and cheaper-feeling materials than before, particularly compared with the CX-50’s upper trims. Replacing the rotary controller, volume knob, and physical climate controls with screen-based adjustments also hurts everyday usability, despite the system’s sharp graphics and responsive menus.

Mazda CX-5 (2026)

Conclusion

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 makes its strongest case as a family SUV that still remembers drivers exist: rear-seat space and flexible cargo capacity now address its old practicality gap, while responsive steering and composed road manners keep daily driving engaging. Its standard AWD and generally quieter ride add reassurance, though firm seats, mixed low-speed comfort, and occasional road noise limit refinement. The polished cabin and fast Google infotainment impress, but harder plastics and touchscreen-only climate and audio controls dilute Mazda’s former usability. Braking and grip feel secure for ordinary all-weather driving, without setting a class benchmark. The 187-hp engine is smooth but unhurried, and 26-mpg combined economy trails hybrids. Choose it for space, value, and driving feel; look elsewhere—or wait for the hybrid—if efficiency, acceleration, or tactile controls matter most. It earns a favorable recommendation, but its compromises make it a shortlist candidate rather than an automatic winner.

Feature Scores Icon

Feature Scores

This reflects reviews and ratings from established critics, journalists, and users who have evaluated the item. Their opinions provide a comprehensive assessment.

Performance

Engine Power

3/5

Acceleration

2/5

Towing Capacity

2/5

Fuel Efficiency

2/5

Reliability

3/5

Durability

3/5

Value

Purchase Price

4/5

Operating Cost

3/5

Resale Value

3/5

Design

Interior Space

4/5

Cargo Capacity

4/5

Ergonomics

3/5

Exterior Styling

4/5

Health

Cabin Air Quality

TBD

Interior Material Toxicity

TBD

Safety

Crashworthiness

4/5

Active Driver Assistance

3/5

Braking Performance

3/5

Visibility and Lighting

4/5

Sustainability

Tailpipe Emissions

2/5

Fuel Lifecycle Emissions

2/5

Use of Recycled Materials

TBD

End-of-Life Recyclability

TBD

Experience Style

Infotainment Features

4/5

Ride Comfort Tuning

4/5

Customization Options

3/5

Specifications Icon

Specifications

This section outlines the product's key facts, covering essential features, details, dimensions, materials, and any unique characteristics that define its functionality and usability.

Performance

Value

Design

Safety

Sustainability

Experience Style

Question Mark Icon

Frequently Asked Questions


7 Questions


$29,990