The highly anticipated 2026 Mazda CX-5 has arrived, reasserting Mazda’s dominance in the compact crossover segment with five distinct personalities tailored to every type of buyer. Moving gracefully between entry-level sophistication and near-luxury execution, the Japanese automaker’s bestseller simplifies your purchase decision by standardizing its legendary driving dynamics. Underpinning every single model is standard all-wheel drive, ensuring confident road manners regardless of price point.
Review Highlights
- All five trims share a standard 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G engine generating 187 horsepower and paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
- The base 2.5S trim punches well above its class, featuring a massive standard 12.9-inch infotainment screen and comprehensive i-ACTIVSENSE safety tech.
- Top-tier S Premium Plus crosses into genuine luxury territory with a massive 15.6-inch screen, 360-degree camera, and driver personalization system.
The Shared Backbone: Skyactiv Performance
Before choosing a trim, it is essential to understand what remains consistent across the range. Every variant of the 2026 Mazda CX-5 utilizes a refined 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower. This power is routed through a proven six-speed automatic transmission, rejecting modern trend-chasing CVTs in favor of traditional gear shifts and tactile engagement.
Mazda’s standard i-ACTIV AWD system constantly monitors road conditions to deliver torque where it is needed most. This mechanical synergy gives the crossover a composed, sporty stance on twisty roads while maintaining a smooth, quiet cruise on long highway stretches. Safety is equally universal, with the standard i-ACTIVSENSE driver-assist suite guarding against blind spots, lane drift, and frontal collisions right out of the gate.
| Metric | Details / Spec |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5-Liter Skyactiv-G 4-Cylinder |
| Horsepower | 187 hp |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Drivetrain | Standard i-ACTIV AWD |
| Standard Screen | 12.9-Inch Infotainment Display |
| Premium Screen | 15.6-Inch Infotainment Display (Premium Plus) |
Decoding the Trims: Entry and Everyday Essentials
2.5S: The Sophisticated Entry
The entry-level 2.5S acts as a masterclass in foundational quality. Exterior elements show no signs of “base model” compromises, showcasing Kodo design, premium LED headlights, and 17-inch alloy wheels. Inside, buyers are greeted by a modern cabin centered around a class-leading 12.9-inch crisp infotainment display integrated with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
S Select: The Daily Commuter’s Sweet Spot
Step up to the S Select, and the driving environment feels instantly elevated. The seats switch to a premium leatherette and cloth combination, and wireless connectivity takes over with wireless smartphone integration and a fast wireless charging pad. Convenience flourishes with automatic folding side mirrors, heated mirrors, and dedicated rear-seat air vents to keep passengers comfortable year-round.
Leveling Up: Premium Features for Enthusiasts
S Preferred: The Feature Leader
For those living in variable climates, the S Preferred is arguably the smartest choice in the lineup. It boasts larger 19-inch wheels, a power rear liftgate, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a memory driver’s seat. Driver focus is enhanced by a sharp head-up display (HUD) throwing essential telemetry onto the windshield, and windshield wiper de-icers that shrug off freezing morning routines.
S Premium: Near-Luxury Comfort
Crossing the threshold into pure luxury, the S Premium transforms the cabin ambiance with a panoramic sunroof that washes the space in natural light. Passengers sit on genuine leather upholstery, with ventilated front seats providing active cooling. Audio is managed by a premium Bose multi-speaker sound system engineered to deliver deep, resonant acoustic response throughout the quieted cabin.
S Premium Plus: The Technological Flagship
At the apex of the family tree stands the S Premium Plus. Mazda equips this flagship model with its largest digital real estate yet: a massive 15.6-inch infotainment screen. To ensure you never have to adjust settings manually, an onboard camera-based Driver Personalization System automatically reads who is behind the wheel and configures seating, mirrors, and climate settings to their customized preferences.
The safety array expands further here, introducing a 360-degree camera system, lane change assist, driver attentiveness monitoring, and adaptive headlamps that pivot dynamically around dark corners. Steering wheel paddle shifters add a dash of driver-centric control, completing Mazda’s ultimate luxury expression.
What We Like
- Stunning 12.9-inch standard screen and intuitive layout.
- Standard i-ACTIV AWD on every single model.
- Flagship S Premium Plus competes with high-end luxury brands.
The Catch
- Six-speed automatic is reliable but aged compared to multi-speed gears.
- No high-output engine option detailed for standard trim tiers.
“The 2026 Mazda CX-5 proves that premium is not a price tag; it is an engineering standard. By offering everything from practical elegance to personalized luxury, Mazda has crafted a crossover for every type of enthusiast.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What engine is standard in the 2026 Mazda CX-5?
Every 2026 Mazda CX-5 is equipped with a 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G four-cylinder engine making approximately 187 horsepower, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
Is all-wheel drive standard on the 2026 CX-5?
Yes, Mazda’s i-ACTIV AWD system comes standard on all trim levels, from the entry-level 2.5S to the range-topping S Premium Plus.
How large is the infotainment display in the 2026 CX-5?
Trims from the base 2.5S up to the S Premium feature a 12.9-inch screen. The top-of-the-line S Premium Plus upgrades to a larger 15.6-inch display.
| Key Vehicle Data | |
|---|---|
| Status / Type | Confirmed |
