Update: First-hand observations and new photographs added to the story following our demo of the new CX-5 in Europe.
Mazda has unveiled a full redesign for the CX-5 gas model, which we had a chance to get up close with in Zurich. While the standard compact SUV is set to hit U.S. dealers early next year, the next-gen Mazda CX-5 Hybrid has been confirmed for 2027, running alongside the CX-50 Hybrid.
Here are seven changes you can expect in the gas and hybrid variants compared to the current CX-5. Note that images, our observations, and some of the specs below are of the European vehicle.
1. Refined ‘Kodo’ Design Language
Seeing the new CX-5 up close in Zurich, we can confirm that it retains the charming Mazda’s ‘Kodo – Soul of Motion’ styling, but with much sharper details. It sports slimmer, vertically ordered headlamps inspired by the brand’s 創 Arata design, seen on the Mazda 6e that we checked out earlier, lifts the compact SUV’s aggression.
The conventionally-designed grille takes on a more upright look, and the wheel arches are squarer with gloss black borders. Chunkier door armor/rocker panels, streamlined door handles with a capacitive touch sensor, and the familiar greenhouse shape round out the new look from this angle.
Walking to the rear, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 features substantial L-shaped taillights that cut deep into the fender. Interestingly, the ‘Mazda’ lettering replaces the traditional logo on the upper tailgate, as seen in the Mazda 6e.
Spending time around the vehicle, it was evident to us that unlike many OEMs, Mazda is deliberately retaining “old school” features like exposed exhaust tips, grilles and even chrome.
2. Longer Body & Better Rear Seat
The next-gen CX-5 is 115 mm (4.5 in) longer, 15 mm (0.6 in) wider, and 30 mm (1.2 in) taller than the 2025 model. This translates to improved rear legroom and headroom, as well as wider rear door openings for comfortable ingress and egress.
The expanded dimensions also give the CX-5 better presence, and the ‘bulbous’ rear design aligns it with newer models like the CX-90 and CX-80, which is sold in Europe. The larger body size moves it closer to the CX-60 within the global lineup, but the FWD mechanical layout clearly sets it apart as the ‘economical’ choice despite the overlap.
While the rear quarter window is sizable, the thick D-pillar slightly limits visibility. Thankfully, Mazda has included a 360° View Monitor, which would improve the driver’s spatial awareness.
3. Increased Cargo Space
The cargo capacity behind the rear seats goes up by 11.7 percent in the new CX-5. It now offers 583 liters (20.6 cu. ft.) of space (European-spec measurement), expanded by an extra 61 liters (2.2 cu. ft.) over the current vehicle. Length has grown by 45 mm (1.8 in), or up to 71 mm (2.8 in) with the rear seats folded.
Cargo area height increases by 32 mm (1.3 in) when the seats are down, while the lift-in height is reduced by 18 mm (0.7 in). These changes create a flatter floor and greater cargo height, making it easier to load even bulky items.
As for the U.S., the 2026 CX-5 offers 29.1 cu. ft. of space, which falls short compared to competitors like the Honda CR-V (39.3 cu. ft.) and 2026 Toyota RAV4 (37.8 cu. ft.). While Mazda isn’t gunning for class-leading levels, one inference is that the new hybrid system, much of which should reside behind the rear seat, should not compromise the CX-5’s practicality.
4. 15.6-inch Display & Google Gemini
The current-gen Mazda CX-5 features a 10.25-inch Mazda Connect display with rotary dial control, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, HD Radio, USB-C ports, and Mazda Connected Services.
For the new model, Mazda is upgrading to the 15.6-inch integrated touchscreen, the largest ever in one of its vehicles. This new system includes Google built-in, offering Google Maps, account-linked personalization, app downloads through Google Play, and Google Gemini AI assistant for natural voice interaction.
Besides a few hybrid specific menus and settings, the systems should carry forward unchanged to the hybrid variant.
5. Mazda’s Own Hybrid System (2027)
While it launches globally with a basic mild-hybrid system, Mazda has confirmed that it will equip the new CX-5 with an in-house strong hybrid that’s currently in development. The powertrain will pair its next-generation 2.5L Skyactiv-Z gasoline engine with electrification. Improved mpg, better performance in urban conditions, and lower emissions are expected from this new powertrain.
(Skyactiv-Z) To be Mounted on Next Generation CX-5 in Combination with Mazda Original Hybrid System for Introduction in 2027.
From the Mazda Multi-Solution Briefing 2025 presentation (March 18, 2025)
In an interview with CarBuzz, Stefan Meisterfeld, VP of Strategic Planning at Mazda North American Operations, said the Skyactiv-Z engine will deliver performance on par, or even stronger than, the turbocharged gasoline engine offered in the second-generation model.
Unlike the CX-50 Hybrid which uses the Toyota Hybrid System, a front-wheel-drive (FWD) option should be available in the CX-5 Hybrid, with an optional e-AWD system for enhanced traction.
6. Most Efficient CX-5 Yet
Mazda has said that the third-generation CX-5’s hybrid system will use the 2.5-liter Skyactiv-Z gasoline engine. We expect it to be paired with an efficient electric propulsion motor and an electric generator motor.
The combined output should be around 200 hp, with an estimated fuel economy of around 40 mpg (combined). A lithium-ion battery with a capacity of around 1.5 kWh should allow for short pure-electric driving.
7. Fewer Configurations/Variants
Mazda is simplifying the next CX-5 by reducing complexity by 60%. The company is evaluating both fixed and variable costs throughout its supply chain, aiming to lower the break-even point and increase unit profits.
Actions to reduce the complexity of the next-generation CX-5 by 60% are progressing as planned.
From Mazda’s Q3 FY2025 financial report, released on Feb 7, 2025
For buyers in the U.S., this could mean fewer configurations, trim levels, or optional packages in the CX-5 Hybrid. Since the launch in 2012, around 5 million units of the CX-5 have been sold worldwide. It is also Mazda’s top seller in North America, with 105,788 units sold in the first nine months of the year.
As stated earlier, Mazda has announced the global availability of the CX-5 Hybrid from 2027.
Also See: First Look Review: 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid gains features, appeal
An automobile engineer by training, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005, with a keen focus on EVs since 2008. My journey in online automotive publishing spans 17 years, during which I have reviewed cutting-edge automotive technologies and interviewed leading global CEOs and vehicle developers.
