The Mazda CX-5 has proven to be a monumental success for the automaker, with global sales surpassing 4.5 million units since its debut in 2012. In the United States alone, more than 1.6 million CX-5s have been sold, making it Mazda’s best-selling vehicle in the country by a substantial margin. However, despite its strong performance and popularity, the model has received relatively little attention in recent years. This sense of neglect was heightened by the arrival of newer Mazda SUVs such as the CX-50, CX-70, and CX-90, which received more modern updates and features.
Now, Mazda is responding to that oversight with the unveiling of the third-generation 2026 CX-5, which showcases a refined evolution of the company’s Kodo design philosophy. This updated look draws inspiration from functional yet fashionable clothing that looks and fits right in any situation. While the exterior changes are not radical, the redesign is still noticeable. At the front, the CX-5 sports a bolder fascia with a Signature Wing grille flanked by sleek, angular headlights that blend into the grille surround. The bumper is now sportier, with enlarged air intakes that enhance the aggressive feel.
On the sides, Mazda has introduced a sharper shoulder line and longer rear doors to improve accessibility for rear passengers. The side profile also includes new, sculpted side skirts and more expressive bodywork. At the rear, the design blends curved surfaces with narrow, modern taillights and a redesigned liftgate that now displays "MAZDA" lettering instead of the traditional emblem. Additional highlights include dual exhaust outlets, gloss black accents, and optional 19-inch alloy wheels. Physically, the 2026 CX-5 is larger than before—114 mm longer, with a 76 mm increase in wheelbase, and over 13 mm wider, promising better interior space.
Inside, the CX-5 has received a minimalist makeover. While Mazda has kept many details under wraps, it has confirmed a tiered dashboard layout and an available 15.6-inch infotainment screen with Google built-in, the largest screen ever featured in a Mazda vehicle. Entry-level models will instead come with a 12.9-inch touchscreen. Mazda has adopted a cleaner look by reducing physical buttons, making the interface more reliant on the infotainment system. Other notable upgrades include a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a redesigned steering wheel, improved seating comfort, a panoramic sunroof, and seven-color ambient lighting that extends into the door panels. The increased dimensions also benefit practicality, with rear passengers gaining more legroom, headroom, and knee space, while the cargo area has grown by 51 mm in length and 25 mm in height, adding 61 liters of extra capacity.
Under the hood, the U.S. version of the 2026 CX-5 will retain the 2.5-liter SkyActiv-G four-cylinder engine, delivering 187 horsepower and 251 Nm of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. Despite carrying over the same figures as before, Mazda has recalibrated the engine to improve responsiveness and smoothness, adapting to different driving conditions. In Europe, however, the CX-5 features a mildly electrified 2.5-liter e-SkyActiv G engine with 24V mild-hybrid technology and a brake-by-wire system, though this version delivers a lower output of 140 horsepower and 238 Nm of torque. European buyers can choose between front- or all-wheel drive configurations.
Mazda has also teased the arrival of an all-new hybrid powertrain, set to debut in 2027. This new system will incorporate a SkyActiv-Z engine, aiming to deliver enhanced fuel efficiency and performance. While specific details are still under wraps, it signals Mazda’s commitment to electrification. The redesigned CX-5 is scheduled to arrive in the U.S. in early 2026 and is expected to cost more than the current model, which starts at $28,770 before a $1,495 destination charge. With overlapping features and pricing, there’s potential for the CX-5 and CX-50 to compete for the same customer base.