All-New 2026 Mazda CX-5 Drops Turbo, Adds Huge Touchscreen
The Toyota RAV4 isn't the only compact SUV to get a makeover for the 2026 model year. The Mazda CX-5 is finally entering a third generation (the current one was launched nine years ago, remember) with the hope of making up lost ground in the most popular and most competitive automotive segment in the country.
Patience is still required, however: the new CX-5 will not arrive in dealerships until the spring of 2026. That's a shame, especially since Mazda Canada has suspended imports of the CX-50 indefinitely due to tariffs.
- Also: Mazda Canada to Stop Importing U.S.-Built CX-50 Due to Tariffs
- Also: Top 10 Longest-Running Vehicle Designs in 2025
The Evolution of Kodo
The Mazda CX-5's Kodo design has aged admirably despite very few changes. For 2026, the silhouette is easily recognizable, but it has been stretched by 4.5 inches (11.5 cm) and widened by over half an inch (1.3 cm). New black trim on the wheel arches and lower body, elegantly integrated with the rest of the vehicle using a traditional Japanese architecture principle called “Kigumi,” provides contrast and character.
A new headlamp signature and redesigned bumper highlight the front end, enhancing the CX-5's appearance. The model in the pictures sports beautifully redesigned 19-inch wheels with a gloss black finish (18-inch wheels will also be available). At the rear, the more angular taillamps stretching towards the middle of the liftgate are reminiscent of the CX-70 and CX-90, except that the logo is replaced by “MAZDA” lettering—a first for the Japanese brand.
A Near Revolution Inside
Often criticized for its frustrating multimedia system and reluctance to embrace touchscreens, Mazda is sort of revolutionizing the interior of the new CX-5. Take a look at the optional 15.6-inch screen—the largest ever offered by the company—that promises smartphone-like usability.
The customizable home menu with quick access to frequently used features is nice. Ditto for Google built-in technology. On the other hand, we’re a bit worried about the elimination of physical controls for temperature and ventilation. The large rotary controller on the console has also disappeared. By the way, if you're looking for the wireless charging pad, it's well out of sight of the driver, near the new split-opening centre armrest.
More Passenger and Cargo Space
Under a newly available panoramic roof that accentuates the feeling of space, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 addresses one of its predecessor's shortcomings by offering a more spacious cabin, especially where the rear seats are concerned. The wheelbase is 3 inches (7.6 cm) longer, incidentally. What's more, the door openings have been considerably enlarged, something that parents installing a child seat will appreciate.
More good news: the trunk is now almost two inches (5 cm) longer and over an inch (2.5 cm) higher with a lower lift-in height that drops over half an inch (1.3 cm) from its predecessor. Exact cargo capacity is not specified, but all of this will allow for easier loading, even with larger items. Elsewhere, Mazda keeps raising the bar for fit and finish, while new seven-colour ambient lighting jazzes up the interior.
No More Turbo, Hybrid to Come Later
Under the hood, the naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine returns with the same 187 hp. However, Mazda engineers have worked on it for greater flexibility and smoother, quieter operation.
The six-speed automatic transmission carries over, a decision that may come as a surprise given the availability of an eight-speed unit in Mazda’s lineup. On the other hand, it proves a solid performer and is always more fun than a CVT. What’s more, i-Activ all-wheel drive remains standard.
A big surprise is the discontinuation of the turbocharged 2.5-litre engine, which delivered over 300 lb-ft of torque resulting in very pleasant acceleration. To justify this decision, Mazda Canada told us that the base engine “represents as much as 90% of sales at times and offers the right mix of responsiveness and fuel economy that our customers want and are familiar with.”
As previously reported, Mazda is also actively prioritizing the development of a hybrid powertrain for superior performance and efficiency. Using a brand new engine called SKYACTIV-Z, the system will be an all-Mazda affair rather than borrowed from Toyota like the one available in the CX-50 Hybrid. Alas, we won’t see it until 2027.
We'll have more information on the 2026 Mazda CX-5, including pricing, trim levels and full specifications for the Canadian market, closer to its on-sale date next spring. Keep following The Car Guide to make sure you don't miss a thing.
