2026 Mazda CX-5 near Hempstead, NY

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 is a five-passenger SUV available in five all-wheel-drive model grades: 2.5 S AWD, 2.5 S Select AWD, 2.5 S Preferred AWD, 2.5 S Premium AWD, and 2.5 S Premium Plus AWD. Every model combines the brand’s SKYACTIV-G® 2.5-liter engine with a six-speed automatic transmission and a comprehensive package of safety, connectivity, comfort, and utility features. The lineup is designed around a consistent mechanical foundation while progressively adding equipment and technology as trim levels increase. Standard all-wheel drive, advanced driver-assistance systems, and a flexible interior layout contribute to the vehicle’s broad functionality. This overview examines the powertrain, chassis engineering, exterior equipment, interior accommodations, technology systems, safety features, and cargo capabilities of the  2026 Mazda CX-5.

Engine and Powertrain

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 is powered by a SKYACTIV-G® 2.5 DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder engine equipped with Cylinder Deactivation and i-STOP technology. This engine produces 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. It features a displacement of 2,488 cubic centimeters, an 89.0 mm by 100 mm bore and stroke, and a 13.0:1 compression ratio. Direct fuel injection is utilized throughout the lineup, and the engine is designed to operate on regular unleaded fuel with an octane rating of 87 or higher. Additional engine specifications include a 6,500-rpm redline, aluminum-alloy engine block construction, aluminum-alloy cylinder heads, and SAE 0W-20 engine oil.

Transmission and Drive System

Every 2026 Mazda CX-5 is equipped with a SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic transmission. The transmission includes both manual-shift capability and integrated drive modes through Mazda Intelligent Drive Select, which provides Normal, Sport, and Off-road settings. Standard i-ACTIV AWD distributes power to all four wheels and serves as the sole drivetrain configuration across the model range. Transmission gearing consists of ratios ranging from 3.552 in first gear to 0.599 in sixth gear, paired with a 4.624 final drive ratio. This drivetrain configuration supports the vehicle’s performance characteristics while maintaining the listed EPA fuel economy rating of 24 mpg city, 30 mpg highway, and 26 mpg combined.

Disclaimer: MPG based on EPA estimates for 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S models, 24 city/30 highway/26 combined MPG. Actual results will vary 

Vehicle Dynamics Technologies

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 incorporates several electronic systems designed to support stability, traction, and vehicle control. Dynamic Stability Control and the Traction Control System are standard on every model. Hill Launch Assist is included to help maintain vehicle position when starting on an incline. G-Vectoring Control Plus is also standard throughout the lineup and works in conjunction with the vehicle’s steering and stability systems. These technologies operate alongside the all-wheel-drive system to support predictable vehicle responses across a variety of driving conditions.

Chassis, Suspension, and Braking

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 uses a unibody SUV structure with the brand’s Ring Structure design. This architecture supports a five-passenger cabin and forms the foundation for the vehicle’s suspension, steering, and braking systems. The chassis configuration remains consistent across all trim levels, providing a uniform engineering platform throughout the lineup. Steering, suspension, and braking components are selected to complement the vehicle’s dimensions and all-wheel-drive layout. Together, these systems contribute to overall vehicle control and stability.

Suspension and Steering Systems

The front suspension uses an independent MacPherson® strut design with coil springs and a stabilizer bar. At the rear, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 employs an independent multi-link suspension system with coil springs and a stabilizer bar. Steering is provided by a rack-and-pinion system with Electric Power Assist Steering. The steering ratio is listed at 14.1:1, and the steering wheel requires 2.75 turns from lock to lock. Turning-circle measurements are 18.4 feet curb-to-curb and 19.7 feet wall-to-wall.

Braking Hardware

Braking performance is supported by ventilated front disc brakes measuring 12.9 inches in diameter. Rear braking is handled by solid disc brakes measuring 11.8 inches in diameter. Anti-lock Braking System functionality is standard and operates in conjunction with Electronic Brake Force Distribution and Brake Assist. An electronic parking brake is also included across the lineup. These systems are integrated with the vehicle’s stability and traction controls to support braking performance and control.

Exterior Design and Equipment

The exterior design of the 2026 Mazda CX-5 combines functional utility features with trim-specific equipment enhancements. Every model includes LED headlights with auto-leveling capability, High Beam Control, LED daytime running lights, automatic headlight operation, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. A body-color rear roof spoiler is standard throughout the lineup, as are AWD badging and rear intermittent windshield wipers with an integrated washer system. As trim levels increase, additional exterior equipment expands convenience and visual differentiation.

Dimensions and Exterior Configuration

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 measures 184.6 inches in overall length and rides on a 110.8-inch wheelbase. Overall width is 73.2 inches without the side mirrors and 81.8 inches with the mirrors extended. Vehicle height measures 66.7 inches. Front and rear track widths are 63.2 inches and 64.0 inches, respectively. Ground clearance ranges from 8.0 inches on models equipped with 17-inch wheels to 8.2 inches on models fitted with 19-inch wheels.

Wheels, Tires, and Exterior Features

The 2.5 S and 2.5 S Select models are equipped with 17 x 7J aluminum alloy wheels finished in Gray Metallic and paired with P225/65 R17 all-season tires. Higher trim levels use 19 x 7J aluminum alloy wheels with model-specific finishes and P225/55 R19 all-season tires. A temporary spare tire is standard across the lineup. Exterior enhancements available on select trims include privacy glass, heated side mirrors, automatic power-folding mirrors, roof rails, a windshield wiper de-icer, Piano Black lower body trim, front and rear signature illumination, a panoramic sunroof, and a hands-free power rear liftgate.

Interior Design and Passenger Comfort

The cabin of the 2026 Mazda CX-5 emphasizes passenger accommodations, flexible seating arrangements, and a progression of comfort features across trim levels. Every model includes a 40/20/40 split folding and reclining rear seatback, a rear center armrest with integrated cup holders, dual-zone automatic climate control, power windows, and a tilt-and-telescoping steering column. Interior materials and convenience features vary by model grade while maintaining a consistent cabin layout. Storage functionality is supported by an overhead console with a sunglasses holder and multiple power outlets.

Seating and Trim Materials

Seat materials differ throughout the lineup. The 2.5 S features black cloth-seating surfaces. The 2.5 S Select and 2.5 S Preferred use leatherette-trimmed seats with microsuede inserts. The 2.5 S Premium and 2.5 S Premium Plus upgrade to leather seating surfaces. Heated front seats become standard beginning with the 2.5 S Preferred, while heated rear seats and ventilated front seats are added on the 2.5 S Premium and higher trims.

Driver and Passenger Accommodations

Interior comfort is further enhanced through additional seating and convenience equipment. A 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar support and two-position memory becomes standard on the 2.5 S Preferred and higher trims. The 2.5 S Premium and 2.5 S Premium Plus add a six-way power-adjustable passenger seat. A heated steering wheel, illuminated vanity mirrors, HomeLink® garage door integration, ambient interior lighting, and a personalization system are available depending on trim level. These features contribute to a more customizable and comfortable cabin environment.

Interior Dimensions

Front headroom measures 39.7 inches in models without a sunroof and 39.2 inches in models equipped with the panoramic sunroof. Rear headroom measures 40.2 inches without the sunroof and 39.1 inches with it. Front legroom is listed at 41.7 inches, while rear legroom measures 39.9 inches. Shoulder room measures 57.6 inches in the front row and 55.6 inches in the rear. Hip room measures 55.2 inches in front and 52.4 inches in the rear, supporting comfortable passenger accommodations throughout the cabin.

Technology and Connectivity

Technology integration is a significant component of the 2026 Mazda CX-5 lineup. Every model includes Mazda Connect™ infotainment functionality along with smartphone connectivity, voice control features, and connected services. Display sizes, audio systems, and additional convenience technologies vary according to trim level. The overall system design focuses on accessibility, communication, navigation capability, and media integration.

Displays and Infotainment Systems

Most trim levels are equipped with a 12.9-inch center display, while the 2.5 S Premium Plus features a larger 15.6-inch center display. A 10.25-inch LCD meter display is standard across the lineup. Beginning with the 2.5 S Preferred, drivers also receive an Active Driving Display that projects full-color information onto the windshield. Google built-in capable navigation and Voice Assistant functionality are included throughout the lineup. These systems operate alongside Mazda Connect™ services, which include Wi-Fi capability, Remote Services, Vehicle Status functions, Vehicle Connect Services, Voice Control, and 911 Emergency Notification capability.

Audio and Device Integration

Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration are standard on every model. Wireless smartphone integration becomes standard beginning with the 2.5 S Select. Bluetooth® hands-free phone and audio capability is included across the lineup, along with HD Radio and voice-command audio controls. The 2.5 S, 2.5 S Select, and 2.5 S Preferred use an eight-speaker audio system, while the 2.5 S Premium and 2.5 S Premium Plus receive a Bose® 12-speaker audio system. Additional connectivity features include USB Type-C charging ports, wireless phone charging on higher trims, and SiriusXM® 360L satellite radio on Premium and Premium Plus models.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Technologies

Safety technology is integrated throughout the 2026 Mazda CX-5 lineup. Every model includes a broad collection of active and passive safety systems designed to support driver awareness, collision mitigation, and occupant protection. Standard equipment spans multiple categories, including braking assistance, lane-support functions, visibility systems, and monitoring technologies. Additional systems become available on the highest trim level, expanding the vehicle’s driver-assistance capabilities.

Driver-Assistance Systems

Standard safety technologies include Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Speed Limit Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring, Driver Attention Alert, Traffic Sign Recognition, Vehicle Exit Warning, and Distance and Speed Alert. Lane Departure Warning, Lane-keep Assist, and Emergency Lane Keeping systems are also standard. Smart Brake Support includes Turn-Across Traffic and Head-On Collision Mitigation functions. Rear Smart Brake Support incorporates Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Pedestrian Detection capability. Front and rear parking sensors, along with a rearview camera featuring Dynamic Line and Tow Hitch Guide functionality, are included across all trims.

Advanced Monitoring and Protection Features

The 2.5 S Premium Plus expands the safety package with Driver Monitoring, Front Cross Traffic Alert and Braking, and Cruising and Traffic Support with Lane Change Assist and Unresponsive Driver Support. A 360 View Monitor with an underfloor view, parking view, and mirrors-folded view is also included. Occupant protection is supported by advanced dual front airbags, knee airbags, side curtain airbags, and front and rear seat-mounted side-impact airbags. Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters are provided, along with child-safety rear door locks and LATCH child-seat anchor points. Secondary Collision Reduction and Tire Pressure Monitoring System functionality complete the vehicle’s standard safety equipment.

Cargo Capacity and Utility

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 combines passenger accommodations with practical cargo-carrying capability. EPA passenger volume measures 106.5 cubic feet on models without the panoramic sunroof and 104.5 cubic feet on sunroof-equipped versions. Cargo volume is rated at 33.7 cubic feet with all seats in place. Folding the second-row seats expands cargo capacity to 66.5 cubic feet according to SAE measurements. The 40/20/40 split-folding rear seat design provides additional flexibility when transporting passengers and cargo simultaneously.

Cargo Area Measurements and Capacities

The cargo area offers a floor-to-roof height of 33.7 inches and a width of 57.5 inches at the floor. Width between the rear wheel housings measures 41.3 inches. Cargo length behind the second row measures 39.1 inches, while maximum cargo length behind the first row reaches 75.0 inches at floor level. The rear liftgate opening measures 42.8 inches wide and 30.7 inches high. Additional utility specifications include a 1,500-pound towing capacity, a roof-load capacity of 165 pounds when equipped with roof rails, and a fuel tank capacity of 15.3 gallons.

Visit Garden City Mazda to Schedule a Test Ride

We invite you to experience the 2026 Mazda CX-5 firsthand and explore its combination of all-wheel-drive capability, advanced technology, passenger comfort, and comprehensive safety systems. A test drive provides an opportunity to evaluate the SKYACTIV-G® powertrain, suspension tuning, steering response, and integrated driver-assistance features in everyday driving conditions. Our team can help you review the equipment differences among the available trim levels and demonstrate the vehicle’s infotainment, connectivity, and utility features. You can also explore the seating configurations, cargo flexibility, and convenience technologies available throughout the lineup. Visit Garden City Mazda near Hempstead, NY to learn more about the 2026 Mazda CX-5 and schedule your test drive.