Why the Redesigned 2026 Mazda CX-5 Deserves a Closer Look
The Mazda CX-5 has always occupied an interesting corner of the crossover world: compact enough to feel manageable, yet serious about the way it drives. For 2026, Mazda has completely redesigned it for a third generation, giving the CX-5 more passenger space, new technology, and a longer wheelbase while keeping standard i-ACTIV AWD® and a naturally aspirated 2.5L engine. For drivers around St. Louis, MO, the result is a familiar idea with considerably more room to breathe.
The Safety Credentials Are Already Strong
The redesigned CX-5 arrives with a 2026 IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ award, earning Good ratings in the small overlap front, updated moderate overlap front, and updated side crashworthiness evaluations. Standard Smart Brake Support also received Good ratings in IIHS vehicle-to-vehicle and pedestrian front crash prevention testing. Mazda backs that performance with a collection of driver-assistance systems including Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist, and Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go. It's a substantial safety foundation before moving into the higher trim levels.
Mazda Keeps AWD Standard Across the Range
Every 2026 CX-5 is powered by a Skyactiv®-G 2.5L 4-cylinder producing 187 hp and 186 lbs. ft. of torque. It pairs with a 6-speed automatic transmission and standard i-ACTIV AWD®, so choosing a lower trim doesn't mean giving up all-wheel traction. EPA-estimated fuel economy comes in at 24 mpg city, 30 mpg highway, and 26 mpg combined. Mazda has confirmed that a hybrid powertrain will join the CX-5 for 2027, but the redesigned 2026 model launches exclusively with the gasoline engine.
The Bigger Body Has Been Put to Good Use
The new CX-5 stretches to 184.6 inches in length and rides on a 110.8-inch wheelbase, increasing its footprint over the previous generation. Crucially, Mazda hasn't simply made the exterior larger for the sake of appearance. Rear-seat and cargo space have both grown while the CX-5 retains seating for 5, and wider rear-door openings should make fitting child seats, loading bags, or simply climbing into the second row less awkward. It remains compact enough for city driving while giving passengers more space where they'll notice it.
Five Trims Give the CX-5 Distinct Personalities
The 2026 range starts with the 2.5 S, fitted with 17-inch alloy wheels, cloth seating, a 12.9-inch center touchscreen, and standard AWD. The 2.5 S Select adds leatherette-trimmed seating and wireless phone charging, introducing a little more cabin polish without moving too far up the range. The 2.5 S Preferred continues the progression, while the 2.5 S Premium adds leather-trimmed seating, ventilated front seats, a panoramic moonroof, and an Active Driving Display. At the top, the 2.5 S Premium Plus brings a 15.6-inch center touchscreen, 360° View Monitor, hands-free power rear liftgate, and paddle shifters. The result is a trim structure that allows buyers to decide how much luxury and technology they want without changing the fundamental 187-hp AWD powertrain.
The Dashboard Takes a Significant Digital Step
Google built-in is one of the redesigned CX-5's biggest technology changes, integrating Google Maps, Google Assistant, and compatible apps from Google Play directly into the vehicle. Mazda has also announced that Google Gemini functionality will arrive through a future update. Depending on trim, the center display measures either 12.9 or 15.6 inches, while touchscreen operation, steering-wheel controls, and voice commands give drivers several ways to access compatible functions. It's a more modern interface, but Mazda hasn't made the screen the only way to interact with the car.
Meet the New CX-5 at Bommarito Mazda South County
Drivers around St. Louis, MO, can visit Bommarito Mazda South County to compare 2026 CX-5 trims, explore available Mazda inventory, and see how the redesigned cabin and expanded dimensions translate in person. Schedule a test drive online to experience the standard i-ACTIV AWD®, 187-hp powertrain, and new-generation CX-5 from behind the wheel.