If you’ve been looking for a compact SUV that looks luxurious, but don’t want to break the bank, you might want to wait a bit longer. Mazda has just teased their 2026 CX-5, which is looking like a massive improvement. The popular SUV is adding a more upscale design, a smarter interior, and for the first time, a hybrid. The full reveal is on July 10, but we have some exciting details right now about what we can expect.
Refreshed Looks that Seem Familiar, But Better
First things first, styling. The teaser images show a CX-5 that looks quite familiar, but with much smoother edges. If you can, you can think of it as the current CX-5 went to a fancy spa.
- Sleeker body lines make it look more aerodynamic.
- The taillights look like the larger CX-90, giving us upscale vibes.
- The front grille has a new look that incorporates thin chrome for that added touch of luxury.
This is not a radical redesign, and in fact, that's a good thing. Mazda is fine-tuning and evolving more of what already works and making it more modern. It’s the same car you enjoy, just more mature!
Mazda Is Going Hybrid—At Last!
Yes, you read that correctly. The 2026 CX-5 will be the first vehicle in their lineup to go hybrid (about time, right?) with so many competitors in the space.
Here’s what we have so far:
- Expected to have their own 2.5L hybrid engine.
- It sounds like the hybrid model may come just after launch but it’s coming.
- Will compete directly with the RAV4 Hybrid, CR-V Hybrid, and Forester Hybrid.
This is great news for fuel-conscious buyers who want a more stylish package than either a CR-V hybrid or RAV4 hybrid offers but still don’t want to go full EV yet (although there’s always the new CX-90 plug-in hybrid). Plus, with Mazda’s reputation for engaging and confidence-inspiring handling, it may end up being one of the better-driving hybrids in the segment.
A Cabin that Focuses on Less and Comfort
We haven't seen the inside yet, but leaks and some privileged information would mean the new CX-5 will be more spacious and tech-savvy than ever.
Prepare for:
- A more straightforward and less cluttered design of the dash
- An upgraded infotainment system with larger screen displays
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Likely more rear legroom and cargo space
Mazda's interiors always feel more expensive than the price tag suggests, and it seems on the latest generation they will double down on that.
2026 Mazda CX-5 Specs (What We Know So Far)
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Why This Launch Matters in the U.S.
For years, the CX-5 has been near the top of the SUV sales leaderboard in America. It offers a unique blend of sportiness, comfort, and value that is hard to ignore. With this redesign, and with the addition of hybrid technology, Mazda is obviously trying to remain competitive, and even move up in the market.
If you've been waiting to scratch the hybrid SUV itch because none of the models have checked all of your boxes, this one might be worth your time.
Conclusion
The 2026 model Mazda CX-5 is looking to be much more than just a standard refresh—it is almost a purposeful upgrade as one of the favorite compact SUVs in America. With its more polished looks, they added a hybrid option for the first time, and better in-car and overall driving experiences, it really seems like Mazda is taking into consideration the plight of modern drivers needs. If you're looking for a hybrid that gets better fuel economy, or simply a good-looking every day driver that comes with modern tech, the next-generation CX-5 is going to be in the front of every stack. Save the date, July 10 - you don't wanna miss this new SUV!
Source(Image / Thumbnail): carscoops
