The 2026 Mazda CX-5 has finally arrived, and it's clear that the Japanese automaker is still committed to its core philosophy. Despite introducing a new sibling model in the form of the CX-50, the CX-5 continues to be Mazda's bestseller and remains assembled at the company's Hiroshima plant in Japan.
One of the most noticeable changes between the current and previous-generation models is the slightly larger size of the new CX-5. While it may not seem like a significant change, the roofline has been subtly altered to give the car a more angular appearance.
The overall design of the new CX-5 still retains much of its familiar look, with a long nose and trapezoidal grille that instantly sets it apart from other crossovers in its class. However, upon closer inspection, the dimensions become apparent, and the car's swollen proportions can be seen more clearly.
The engine choice for now is limited to a 2.5-liter inline-four, which has been carried over from the previous generation and is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. While it may not have the same level of power as its turbocharged counterpart, the regular engine still delivers respectable performance.
In terms of practicality, the new CX-5 has seen significant improvements, particularly in rear-seat legroom and door opening, thanks to an increased wheelbase. This makes it a more comfortable choice for daily use, especially when compared to other crossovers in its class.
Under the skin, the new CX-5 retains a familiar chassis, with struts at the front and a multilink system in the tail. The Premium Plus model that was tested came equipped with 19-inch rims and 225/55R19 tires, which added to its overall sense of refinement.
One area where the new CX-5 falls short is in terms of power output. While it may not be a significant issue for most buyers, the lack of a turbocharged engine does make it feel slightly underpowered, especially when compared to its sibling model, the CX-50.
Despite this, the saving grace is that the engine feeds Mazda's excellent six-speed automatic transmission, which was responsive and engaging to use. This helps to mitigate some of the power deficit, making the car still enjoyable to drive.
In terms of handling, the new CX-5 is a delight, with a combination of plentiful grip, a neutral chassis balance at everyday speeds, and good ride quality. However, it would be even better with the turbocharged engine that was offered in previous models.
The overall dimensions of the new CX-5 have changed relatively little compared to its predecessor, with only a slight increase in width. This is due to space limitations at Mazda's Hiroshima plant, which has limited the company's ability to build wider vehicles. Despite this, the car still feels cozy and intimate inside, particularly when compared to other crossovers in its class.
