This popular Mazda SUV is about to get a major upgrade. What to know about the 2026 Mazda CX-5
The popular compact SUV could get game-changing upgrades.
- The Mazda CX-5 is one of the brand's best-selling models.
- Mazda's recent attention to cabin quality is well-documented.
- The CX-5's next generation could be a serious contender in its segment.
Mazda Motor Corp is a serious competitor in the small SUV segment. The CX-5 and CX-50 small SUVs have plenty to offer for consumers who value style, luxury, and performance at affordable price points.
The Japanese automaker has been stepping it up in several areas in recent years including interior quality, plug-in hybrid development and new nameplate production. Mazda's lineup has expanded and one of its most popular models for the American market is about to get a major upgrade.
When will the 2026 Mazda CX-5 debut?
Mazda's next generation CX-5 small SUV is set to debut on July 10 at 1 a.m. PT. It will feature more cabin space and "greater utility", according to a press release.
The Mazda CX-5 is a compact SUV that competes against popular models like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Nissan Rogue. It has gained popularity in recent years because of its refined interior and striking exterior design. The CX-5 remains affordable despite being practically indistinguishable from a luxury model.
Mazda's 2026 CX-5 will be the third generation of the small SUV following a 2022 mid-cycle refresh for second-generation models. The 2022 mid-cycle refresh introduced upgrades like standard all-wheel drive, making superior traction and increased power output the norm for the small SUV.
What's so special about the Mazda CX-5?
In an age where everything of quality seems to be getting more expensive by the day, the CX-5 stands out in its segment. It's a mainstream model designed for driving enthusiasts who desire a sportier more luxurious family SUV. Additionally, Mazda offers a whopping eight different trims for the 2025 model year, providing plenty of variety for consumers.
The CX-5 is "tough to beat when it comes to combining versatility and driving enjoyment", according to U.S. News & World Report. It may not be as efficient as models like the Toyota RAV4, but the Mazda CX-5 occupies a special niche. It's the mass market SUV with sports car appeal (in the right configuration). Trims like the Carbon Turbo ($37,200) come standard with a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
Should you get a 2025 Mazda CX-5?
If you're in the market for a new small family SUV, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 is a fine option to consider. It starts at $28,770 for the base model S trim, making it more affordable than the 2025 Toyota RAV4 and 2025 Honda CR-V.
The CX-5 produces 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque using its standard 2.5-liter SKYACTIV-G naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine. It achieves 26 miles per gallon in the city and 31 miles per gallon on the highway. The CX-5's performance specs are average for its segment but reviews from publications like Edmunds praise its "engaging driving dynamics".
2025 Mazda CX-5 standard features
- Mazda radar cruise control with stop and go
- Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert
- Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Leather-wrapped gear selector
Mazda's 2025 CX-5 is "one of the best small SUVs around" said a review by Edmunds. That said, the third-generation 2026 Mazda CX-5 could provide more value as a newer model year with significant upgrades. Based on Mazda's recent trajectory and attention to cabin quality, the 2026 CX-5 is worth looking into before purchasing a 2025 model year.
Popular small SUVs for 2025
There are several great alternatives to the Mazda CX-5 on the market today. Here are some of the best compact SUVs of 2025 according to Kelley Blue Book:
- 2026 Honda CR-V
- 2025 Toyota RAV4
- 2025 Hyundai Tucson
- 2025 Mazda CX-50
- 2025 Subaru Forester