5 Things to Know About Mazda’s New Infotainment System
Scheduled to arrive at dealerships in the spring, the third-generation 2026 Mazda CX-5 benefits from conservative yet tasteful styling revisions, offers more interior space, and eliminates the optional turbo engine to replace it with a new hybrid system… in 2027.
One of the highlights, of course, is the cabin’s transformation, specifically when it comes to the infotainment interface. As you know, the company has often been criticized in the past for its frustrating system and reluctance to adopt touchscreens. The new CX-5 marks pretty much a revolution with a standard 12.9-inch or optional 15.6-inch touchscreen—the largest ever offered in a Mazda vehicle. While some may not appreciate such a drastic change, the majority are likely to embrace it.
- Also: 2026 Mazda CX-5: Five Things to Know
- Also: All-New 2026 Mazda CX-5 Drops Turbo, Adds Huge Touchscreen
In any case, we thought you should know a few things about the redesigned interface. Following a presentation by Matthew Valbuena, manager of in-vehicle technology and human-machine interfaces at Mazda North American Operations, here are five key takeaways:
1. Physical Controls Are Out
First of all, it's important to note that the large rotary controller along with several buttons on the centre console are gone. The same goes for the physical HVAC controls. Drivers will have to get used to relying on the touchscreen—or voice commands—for the vast majority of vehicle functions.
The good news is that the temperature settings remain visible and easily accessible at the bottom of the screen. The audio system’s volume control is operated via the steering wheel. However, other features such as the heated seats and ventilation cannot be turned on or adjusted with a single click. And there's nothing on the dashboard to rest your wrist or fingers on for more precise control.
2. Google Rules
Not all car manufacturers are tech experts. Mazda knows it and is now turning to Android Automotive for its operating system, complete with Google built-in. Think Google Maps for navigation, Google Assistant for voice interaction with the vehicle, and Google Play for downloading apps.
That said, for those who prefer smartphone mirroring, the 2026 CX-5 offers wireless with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
3. Smartphone-Like Usability
Speaking of which, Mazda's new infotainment system, which will gradually be rolled out to the rest of the lineup in the future, has been designed for a user experience closely resembling that of a smartphone. For example, the home screen is configurable, and it's possible to rearrange apps to prioritize those used most frequently. You can also switch menus and displays by swiping or pinching.
Furthermore, each individual can create their unique driver profile though the screen in order to retrieve their preferred settings every time they get behind the wheel, thus ensuring a more personalized experience.
4. The Power of AI
Google's Gemini artificial intelligence is also featured in the new CX-5, allowing the driver not only to converse naturally but also to get more precise answers to queries and delegate tasks. This includes things like adjusting cabin temperature, tuning to a desired radio station, sending text messages or finding a four-star Japanese restaurant near the football stadium, just to name a few.
Another important detail you need to know about is that over-the-air software updates will be available continuously to keep the infotainment system and other vehicle functions fresh over time.
5. What’s Facing the Driver?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5's centre touchscreen is paired with a new 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster as standard. The latter is definitely not the most impressive in the industry, but this display is also configurable and allows you to choose between two different views, including a minimalist one that shows only basic information. You can quickly switch between the two using a dedicated button on the steering wheel. Additionally, turn-by-turn navigation instructions can be displayed on the instrument cluster to make driving easier.
The steering wheel has been completely redesigned, with Mazda increasing the number of controls that drivers can access while keeping both hands on the wheel. There will inevitably be a learning curve, but we think it’s all for the better. Finally, the optional head-up display returns, projecting data onto the windshield on an area that’s 122% larger than in the previous CX-5.
