2026 Mazda CX-5 overview — Mazda’s all-new compact SUV refreshed for the 2026 model year with updated design, standard features, and a simplified powertrain lineup: 

🚙 Overview

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 returns as Mazda’s popular compact SUV with standard all-wheel drive (AWD) and a refined, modern exterior and interior design. It’s larger than before, offering more rear-seat space and cargo room thanks to a longer wheelbase and overall length. 

Seating: 5 passengers
Drive: AWD standard
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
Engine: Naturally aspirated 2.5 L inline-4 

🔧 Powertrain & Performance

📌 Standard Gas Engine

• Engine: 2.5 L Skyactiv-G four-cylinder

• Output: ~187 hp and ~185–186 lb-ft torque

• Transmission: 6-speed automatic

• Drive: Standard i-Activ AWD®

• Fuel Type: Regular unleaded 

For 2026 Mazda has dropped the turbocharged engine from the CX-5 lineup; Mazda plans a hybrid version for 2027, but 2026 models use just the 2.5 L engine. 

⛽ Fuel Economy (Estimated EPA)

According to early MPG guides and estimates for the 2.5 L AWD CX-5: 

• City: ~24 MPG

• Highway: ~30 MPG

• Combined: ~26 MPG

These figures are typical for AWD compacts with a naturally aspirated engine; official EPA numbers may appear once final ratings are published. 

Fuel Tank: ~14.8 gallons
Estimated Range:

• City: ~300–330 miles

• Highway: ~380–420 miles 

💰 Pricing & Trims (U.S. MSRP)

For the U.S. market, Mazda has announced the following starting prices (MSRP) for 2026 CX-5 trims: 

*MSRP excludes taxes, fees, and destination charges. 

🛋️ Interior & Features

The 2026 CX-5 adds tech and comfort improvements including: 

• Larger infotainment screens (up to ~15.6″ available) with modern interfaces

• Google built-in and smartphone connectivity features

• Enhanced safety tech standard across trims (adaptive cruise, lane assist, blind-spot monitoring, automatic braking)

• Optional 360° view camera and lane-change assist technology 

Interior materials and cabin ergonomics are redesigned with a focus on refinement and comfort.

📦 Practical Details

Space & Utility

• Larger cargo area than previous CX-5 generation

• Improved rear-seat legroom and overall passenger comfort 

Towing

• Towing capacity remains competitive for the class (around ~2,000 lbs with the base engine). 

📌 What’s New for 2026

• Fully refreshed design with more modern styling and a longer wheelbase. 

• Standard AWD on every trim. 

• Turbo engine discontinued for 2026. 

• Hybrid model announced for 2027 but not available for 2026. 

• Enhanced tech, larger screens, and improved safety suite standard across trims. 

🧠 Summary

Why consider the 2026 CX-5:

• More interior and cargo space than before. 

• Standard all-wheel drive across all trims. 

• Refined cabin and modern connectivity features. 

Keep in mind:

• Turbo engine isn’t offered for this year; only the naturally aspirated 2.5 L is available. 

• Hybrid powertrain arrives on a future model (likely 2027). 

If you want, I can compare the 2026 CX-5 vs CX-50 or versus key rivals like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 to help with choosing the best compact SUV. Just let me know!