Mazda CX-5: old versus new: What the new Mazda CX-5 can do better than the old one

The Mazda CX-5 is a perennial favorite in the Japanese model range and has been one of the most successful SUVs in its segment for over a decade. Now, Mazda is ushering in a new era with the third, significantly expanded generation – featuring a new engine and mild hybrid technology. The new CX-5 will roll out in early 2026, following in the footsteps of its predecessor – a real bestseller, especially in Germany.

Mazda aims to retain the strengths of the previous model with the new edition – a clear design language, good build quality, and balanced driving characteristics. At the same time, the new edition offers more space, more modern technology, and a significantly more digitalized user interface. This first comparison is intended to show in detail how the new CX-5 differs from the previous model – and where it makes clear progress.

The third generation of the Mazda CX-5 has noticeably increased in almost every dimension. The new model now measures 4,690 millimeters in length (+115 mm), 1,860 millimeters in width (+20 mm), and 1,695 millimeters in height (+15 mm). The wheelbase, which has grown by almost twelve centimeters to 2.82 meters, is said to be particularly important for the feeling of space in the interior.

The predecessor, which has been rolling off the production line since 2017, measured 4.58 meters long and 1.84 meters wide. This made it larger than, for example, a current VW Tiguan. Mazda hasn't been able to score highly with its perfect use of space. The third generation of the CX-5 aims to change that.

The interior of the new CX-5 noticeably benefits from its larger exterior dimensions. The rear compartment, in particular, is more spacious: Rear legroom has increased by almost six centimeters, and headroom by a further three centimeters. Entry is also significantly more comfortable thanks to wider-opening doors – for example, when buckling up child seats.

The growth is even more evident in the trunk. The new CX-5 has gained 61 liters of space, offering 583 liters of cargo space with the rear seats upright. With the backrests folded down, the storage space expands to 2,019 liters—a whopping 381 liters more than its predecessor. Practical advantages include a lower loading sill and a flatter floor.

Mazda has adjusted the trim levels for the new CX-5 and structured them more clearly: Prime Line, Centre Line, Exclusive Line, and Homura are the four variants. Even the base version comes with significantly expanded standard equipment, including LED headlights, a digital instrument cluster, a large touchscreen display, dual-zone automatic climate control, and various assistance systems.

The previous model offered similar trim levels (Prime Line to Sports Line). However, many features—such as the large infotainment display or assistance packages—were only available from the mid-level trim level or at an additional cost. The new generation therefore offers more as standard, especially in terms of digitalization, comfort, and connectivity. This isn't necessarily good news for traditional Mazda customers.

Another significant innovation in the upcoming CX-5 will be the operating concept. The familiar rotary push-button controller on the center console disappears and is replaced by a large touchscreen, measuring 12.9 inches or 15.6 inches diagonally, depending on the trim level. The screen serves as the control center for infotainment, climate control, and vehicle systems.

The instrument cluster has also been upgraded: A 10.25-inch display replaces the analog dials. Added to this are a head-up display, wireless smartphone mirroring, Google built-in, voice control via Google Gemini, and intuitive operating logic with capacitive steering wheel buttons. In comparison, the previous model offered a maximum of a 10.25-inch display without touch functionality, operated via a rotary dial. However, there were still haptic buttons for climate and sound controls.

In terms of powertrains, Mazda has significantly simplified the range for the new CX-5: While the discontinued model is still available with four engine options (including diesel) and several power levels, the new CX-5 will initially launch exclusively with a new 2.5-liter e-Skyactiv G 141 gasoline engine producing 141 hp and a maximum of 238 Nm. This replaces the previous 2.0-liter engine with 165 hp and delivers more torque at lower revs. Compared to the previous 2.5-liter engine, however, the specs initially seem somewhat underwhelming.

A 24-volt mild hybrid system provides support during acceleration and recuperation, coupled with a new six-speed automatic transmission (now standard). The sprint to 100 km/h (62 mph) takes 10.5 seconds (FWD) or 10.9 seconds (AWD), and the top speed is 195 km/h (121 mph). The previous top-of-the-line 194 hp gasoline engine, as well as the 150 and 184 hp diesel engines, have been dropped entirely. Further hybrid variants could follow.

According to Japanese engineers, the new CX-5's chassis has been significantly redesigned. The springs, dampers, and steering were retuned on European roads. This should provide more comfort and stability, especially in corners and at high speeds. Mazda has also improved the sound insulation. Also new is the "brake-by-wire" system, which combines mechanical and regenerative braking interventions – according to Mazda, for smoother braking and greater efficiency.

Existing systems such as all-wheel drive (i-Activ AWD) and G-Vectoring Control Plus remain on board. The Mi-Drive system allows you to choose between different driving modes (Normal, Sport, and Off-Road). The maximum towing capacity remains at a strong 2,000 kilograms—a plus for active users.

Mazda has so far been able to offer attractive value for money with the CX-5. This appears to be the case with the new model as well. According to the announcement, the 2026 CX-5 will start at around €35,000. This puts it on par with the previous model, which was last available starting at €35,190 (with a manual transmission). The advantage of the new model: The automatic transmission is now standard, whereas it previously cost €2,000 extra.

The four trim levels now cover an even broader spectrum: from the solid Prime Line to the sophisticated Homura version with genuine leather, matrix LED, a large display, and comfort features such as seat ventilation and driver profile recognition. As with its predecessor, a six-year warranty or 150,000 kilometers is included.