- Exterior Design: A Blend of Elegance and Boldness
- Front End
- Sides and Rear
- Dimensions
- Interior: Luxury and Technological Simplicity
- Materials and Finishes
- Technology and Infotainment
- Powertrain: Ushering in a New Era with Self-Charging Hybrid
- New SkyActiv-Z Engine
- Performance and Efficiency
- Competition in the Compact SUV Market
- Strengths and Opportunities
- Challenges
- Reveal and Availability
Japanese automaker Mazda is preparing to launch the third generation of its popular CX-5 compact SUV for the 2026 model year, following the continuous success of the current generation since its debut in 2016. This new generation reflects significant advancements in design and technology, with Mazda keen to deliver a driving experience that combines performance, efficiency, and comfort amid fierce competition in the compact SUV segment.
Exterior Design: A Blend of Elegance and Boldness
The new Mazda CX-5 retains the overall proportions of its predecessor but features radical updates to its exterior styling. The recently released official teaser images reveal sharper and more streamlined lines, inspired by its larger sibling, the CX-90, with touches that enhance the sporty and luxurious character of the vehicle.
Front End
The front fascia features a larger, redesigned grille with a mesh pattern and thin chrome strips that give it a modern and elegant look. The headlights are slimmer and more curved, giving the car a sharp and lively appearance. The front bumper has been redesigned to appear cleaner and simpler, with a larger lower air intake that improves ventilation and adds a sporty touch.
Sides and Rear
The vehicle sports wide wheel arches with unpainted plastic cladding, lending it a rugged look suitable for off-road driving, with higher trims likely offering body-colored panels instead. At the rear, new slim horizontal LED taillights connect across the width of the vehicle, complemented by a simple rear bumper and horizontal reflectors.
Dimensions
While maintaining the basic dimensions, Mazda has worked on increasing interior space by optimizing the body design, providing passengers with greater comfort and more legroom and headroom.
Interior: Luxury and Technological Simplicity
Mazda promises a more spacious and user-focused cabin with a simple and elegant design that avoids clutter and enhances the driving experience.
Materials and Finishes
High-quality materials such as premium leather, natural wood, and polished metal accents will be used, drawing on Mazda’s experience with luxury models like the CX-90. The interior design focuses on clean lines and smart organization of controls and displays.
Technology and Infotainment
The new CX-5 will be equipped with a larger central infotainment screen featuring Mazda’s latest connectivity and navigation systems, with full support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The car will also offer a premium sound system and advanced driver assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning.
Powertrain: Ushering in a New Era with Self-Charging Hybrid
One of the most notable updates in the 2026 CX-5 is the introduction of a fully in-house developed mild hybrid system aimed at improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions without the need for external charging.
New SkyActiv-Z Engine
Mazda has also announced a new gasoline engine called SkyActiv-Z, which combines strong performance with high efficiency, incorporating advanced technologies such as direct fuel injection and variable valve timing, supported by the mild hybrid system. This engine is expected to join the CX-5 lineup by late 2027, gradually replacing current engines.
Performance and Efficiency
Currently, the 2026 CX-5 will offer a hybrid system based on a four-cylinder engine paired with a small electric motor that aids acceleration and provides limited electric-only driving. This system enhances driving dynamics while reducing harmful emissions.
Competition in the Compact SUV Market
The new CX-5 enters a highly competitive market with strong rivals such as the Toyota RAV4, which received a full redesign for 2026, as well as the Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester, both already offering hybrid powertrains.
Strengths and Opportunities
Advanced and attractive design: Positions the CX-5 well to attract customers seeking a modern and stylish look.
Advanced hybrid technologies: Meet growing market demand for environmentally friendly vehicles.
High-quality interior: Enhances user experience and competes with luxury models.
Challenges
Intense competition: Presence of many established competitors in the segment.
High customer expectations: Especially regarding technology and comfort.
Shift toward full electric vehicles: May impact demand for traditional hybrids.
Reveal and Availability
Mazda has announced that the official reveal of the new CX-5 will take place on July 10, 2025, with global market launches to follow in the subsequent months, potentially arriving in the U.S. as a 2026 model.
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 offers a comprehensive package combining modern design, advanced technologies, and a new hybrid powertrain that reflects the company’s commitment to sustainability and efficiency. Entering a competitive market, Mazda will need to leverage its strengths to maintain its position and meet customer expectations in the compact SUV segment.
