2026 Mazda CX-5 Revealed: Bigger, Bolder, and Going Button-Less

Mazda’s best-selling SUV is back—and it’s going through its boldest transformation yet. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 has officially debuted with a longer body, a refreshed design, and a controversial interior upgrade that ditches most physical buttons. With a hybrid version coming soon and global launches lined up, this third-generation CX-5 is aiming to stay ahead in the compact SUV race.

Longer and Roomier Than Ever

The new CX-5 gains 3 inches in wheelbase, resulting in a total length of 184.6 inches—longer than before and now comparable to rivals like the Honda CR-V and Nissan Rogue. That stretch means better rear legroom, larger door openings, and improved trunk access with an extra 2 inches in cargo length and 1 inch in load height.

Mazda hasn’t released interior measurements yet, but they claim this will be one of the roomiest second rows in its class.

Refined Kodo Design

The 2026 CX-5 debuts a refined version of Mazda’s “Kodo – Soul of Motion” design language. Up front, you’ll notice stacked headlights, a sharper grille, and a wider stance. In the back, there’s a new “MAZDA” wordmark stretched across the trunk and sleek taillights inspired by the larger CX-70. Top trims will also get sporty 19-inch wheels.

Powertrain: Familiar for Now, Hybrid for the Future

Under the hood, the new CX-5 carries over the 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, delivering 187 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD.

Mazda confirmed that the CX-5 will debut a brand-new hybrid in 2027, powered by the company’s Skyactiv-Z engine. The new engine promises higher thermal efficiency and a wider performance range than Mazda’s current powerplants.

In Europe, a mild-hybrid variant (e-Skyactiv G 2.5 with Mazda M Hybrid) will debut by late 2025, supporting improved fuel economy and smoother daily driving.

Inside: Big Screen, No Buttons

Here’s where things get polarizing. The 2026 CX-5 features a huge 15.6-inch center touchscreen—Mazda’s biggest yet. It runs Google Built-In software, including Google Maps and Google Assistant, but eliminates almost all dashboard buttons.

The familiar volume knob and command dial near the gear shifter are gone. Instead, users must rely on touchscreen or steering wheel controls (which, thankfully, remain physical buttons).

Safety and Driver Assistance

The new CX-5 includes Mazda’s latest Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS).While Mazda hasn’t shared full details, buyers can expect upgraded features like adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and possibly hands-free highway driving in higher trims.

Pricing and Launch

The current 2025 CX-5 starts at $30,265, including destination. Mazda hasn’t revealed exact pricing for the 2026 model, but a slight increase is expected, possibly pushing the base model closer to $32,000.

The North American release is expected before the end of 2025, while European models will hit showrooms by year’s end with mild hybrid tech already included.

Would you give up physical buttons for a cleaner, more tech-forward car interior like the 2026 CX-5?

More…

• https://www.motor1.com/news/765325/2026-mazda-cx5-debut-details-price
• https://newsroom.mazda.com/en/publicity/release/2025/202507/250710a.html
• https://www.caranddriver.com/photos/g65336954/2026-mazda-cx-5-revealed-interior-gallery