2026 Mazda CX-5 Review

EVOLUTION OR MISSED OPPORTUNITY?

Since its inaugural global debut in 2012, the Mazda CX-5 has served as the undisputed cornerstone of Mazda Australia's commercial success, regularly dominating the private mid-size SUV sales charts. Known for blending handsome proportions, engaging driving dynamics, and upscale cabin appointments, the nameplate established a loyal customer following across two highly successful generations. Now entering its third generation for 2026, the all-new  CX-5  arrives  facing  an  intensely  competitive  family  SUV  landscape  populated  by  capable  segment benchmarks like the Toyota RAV4, Subaru Forester, Mitsubishi Outlander, and Hyundai Tucson.

Rather than executing a  radical  design  revolution,  Mazda  has  chosen  a  path  of  measured  physical  evolution. Underpinned by a substantially stretched wheelbase (+115mm) and an expanded overall length (+115mm), the third-generation CX-5 directly addresses the key shortcoming of its predecessor: cramped rear-seat passenger accommodation and modest cargo volume. Furthermore, Mazda Australia has streamlined the range to five distinct grades,  standardizing All-Wheel  Drive  (AWD)  across  every  single  variant.  However,  this  generational  overhaul introduces  significant  talking  points,  including  the  launch-phase  absence  of  turbocharged  or  electrified  hybrid powertrains,  a  revised  naturally  aspirated  2.5-litre  petrol  engine  with  slightly  reduced  power  outputs,  and  a modernized interior that relocates physical climate controls into a touchscreen interface.  In this comprehensive YEECAR 3.0 review, we deliver an objective, data-backed analysis across real-world driving manners, urban fuel economy, cabin packaging, safety credentials, and capped-price servicing to help high-intent Australian buyers make an informed purchasing decision.

How much does the Mazda CX-5 cost?

Pricing   for   the   third-generation   2026   Mazda   CX-5   reflects   both   inflationary   market   pressures   and   the standardization of all-wheel drive across the entire portfolio. While entry pricing has crept upward compared to the outgoing front-wheel-drive base models, the CX-5 remains competitively positioned within the core mid-size SUV segment, undercutting several all-wheel-drive competitors.

The range opens with the G25 Pure AWD at $39,990 before statutory on-road costs. Positioned as an accessible fleet and entry-level family transport option, the  Pure  includes  17-inch  alloy wheels,  a  10.25-inch  digital driver cluster, a 12.9-inch central display, and full LED headlights. However, the omission of rear directional air vents on this base grade is an unexpected compromise for Australian family buyers operating in hot summer conditions.

Stepping up to the G25 Evolve AWD at $42,990 adds $3,000 to the purchase price, introducing crucial family amenities  including  rear-seat  air  conditioning  vents,  wireless  Apple   CarPlay   and  Android  Auto,   a  wireless smartphone charging pad, smart keyless entry, and heated front seating. For many suburban families, the Evolve serves as the true practical baseline of the lineup.

The mid-tier G25 Touring AWD tested here sits at $47,490 before on-road costs. It introduces 19-inch machined alloy wheels, black Maztex leatherette upholstery with synthetic suede inserts, a 10-way power driver’s seat with memory, an Active Driving Display (Head-Up Display), a heated steering wheel, a remote power tailgate, and roof rails. However, at close to $50,000 drive-away, the absence of a 360-degree camera and built-in satellite navigation makes the Touring feel somewhat de-specified against similarly priced rivals.

Sitting above the Touring, the G25 GT SP AWD commands $51,990, targeting style-focused buyers with gloss- black 19-inch alloys, full black leather upholstery, a 12-speaker Bose premium audio system, heated rear outboard seats, Adaptive LED Headlights, and the crucial 360-degree View Monitor with see-through functionality. At the summit  of  the  range,  the  Akera  AWD  is  priced  at  $54,990,  bringing  luxury  appointments  such  as front-seat ventilation, a panoramic sunroof, steering wheel paddle shifters, a hands-free power tailgate, and an expanded 15.6-inch touchscreen interface.

What is the Mazda CX-5 like on the inside?

For over a decade, Mazda interiors set the aesthetic and tactile benchmark in the mainstream medium SUV class, often bridging the gap to entry-level luxury brands. In the third-generation CX-5, Mazda has modernized the cockpit through digital integration, though long-time brand loyalists will notice a marked shift in tactile execution.

The dashboard is dominated by a high-resolution  12.9-inch touchscreen on  Pure,  Evolve,  Touring, and GT SP variants, expanding to a 15.6-inch panel on the flagship Akera. In a significant departure from previous Mazda ergonomic philosophy—which historically favored physical rotary dials and standalone climate buttons—nearly all secondary vehicle controls have been relocated into the touchscreen. The climate control system is now embedded in a fixed bottom menu bar. While the digital buttons remain permanently visible, the touch targets are relatively small, requiring more driver visual focus away from the road than the tactile, rotary dials of the outgoing model. Physical controls are largely relegated to front and rear window demisters and steering wheel switchgear.

Material presentation across the cabin reveals subtle cost-management strategies. While the upper dashboard and door armrests retain soft, squidgy padded materials, hard textured plastics are noticeably more prevalent on the passenger dashboard fascia,  lower console sides, and door cards.  In  the Touring specification, the seating  is trimmed in a combination of black Maztex synthetic leatherette and synthetic suede cloth inserts. While supportive and comfortable over long journeys, the fabric inserts present a more utilitarian, low-sheen finish compared to the plush leather appointments found in the GT SP and Akera.

Infotainment performance is another area requiring buyer acclimatization. The system interface running on the 12.9-inch display feels basic in its menu architecture and exhibited slight operational latency during rapid screen inputs. Curiously, native satellite navigation is absent on the Touring grade, leaving drivers entirely dependent on smartphone projection via wireless Apple CarPlay or wireless Android Auto. Furthermore, while Australian models feature  Mazda  Connected  Services  with  MyMazda  smartphone  app  integration  (enabling  remote  locking  and vehicle status tracking), local vehicles miss out on the Google Built-in ecosystem offered in overseas markets.

Dimensions, passenger accommodation, and practicality

The most substantial triumph of the 2026 redesign lies in its dimensional growth. Mazda engineers have directly rectified the primary customer complaint leveled against earlier generations: restricted rear-seat legroom and limited cargo capacity.

The  115mm  stretch  in wheelbase fundamentally transforms second-row packaging.  In the  outgoing  model, tall adults sitting behind a tall driver suffered from compromised knee and toe room. In the 2026 CX-5, second-row occupants enjoy generous knee, toe, and headroom, even when sitting behind a taller front occupant. While a central transmission tunnel remains on the floor pan due to the standard AWD driveline, foot room in the center seating position is vastly improved. The rear backrests recline for long-distance comfort, though the seat base cannot slide fore and aft—a flexible utility feature found in rivals like the Nissan X-Trail and Mitsubishi Outlander. Rear amenities on the Touring include directional air vents, a fold-down center armrest with dual cupholders, map pockets, and wide door bins capable of holding 1.5-litre bottles. Note that the base Pure grade misses out on rear directional air vents entirely.

Cargo practicality has expanded commensurately. The Touring variant includes a remote power-operated tailgate that opens to reveal 466 litres (VDA) of boot capacity with the rear seats in place, representing a 43-litre gain over the previous generation. The load floor is flat, wide, and low, minimizing effort when loading heavy prams, luggage, or sporting gear. The rear bench utilizes a versatile 40/20/40 split-fold mechanism, allowing long items like skis or timber to be carried while maintaining two full rear seating positions. Remote quick-release levers located in the boot walls allow the seats to drop effortlessly, creating a flat 1594-litre cargo bay. Beneath the boot floor lies a space-saver temporary spare wheel, retaining crucial touring peace of mind on regional Australian journeys.

What's under the bonnet?

Under the bonnet, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 adopts a conservative mechanical strategy. At Australian launch, Mazda has opted not to offer a turbocharged petrol powertrain, nor is there an electrified hybrid variant available—an engineering omission that stands in stark contrast to the hybrid-heavy focus of the broader mid-size SUV segment.

The revised Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine produces 132kW of power at 6000rpm and 242Nm of torque at 4000rpm. These outputs  represent  a  slight  reduction  of  8kW  and  10Nm  compared  to the  previous- generation G25 engine, a concession driven by tighter global emissions compliance (ADR 79/05). The engine is paired exclusively with Mazda’s familiar six-speed torque-converter automatic transmission. In an era where many competitors have transitioned to Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs), the retention of a stepped automatic provides predictable gear engagement, direct throttle coupling, and natural downshifting characteristics under load.

Standard across all five model grades is Mazda’s predictive i-Activ all-wheel-drive system.  Utilizing an array of onboard  sensors  that  monitor  steering  angle,  wheel  slip,  ambient  temperature,  and  throttle  input,  the  system continuously distributes torque between the front and rear axles to preempt loss of traction. While braked towing capacity is rated at 1800kg (with a 750kg unbraked limit), the naturally aspirated engine’s modest torque output means towing near the maximum rating requires working the engine high into its rev range.

How does the Mazda CX-5 drive?

On  the  road,  the  third-generation   Mazda  CX-5  delivers  a  driving  experience  defined   by  dynamic   maturity, mechanical refinement, and accessible handling, though its straight-line performance remains decidedly leisurely.

Urban and Suburban Commuting Dynamics

In  low-speed  urban  environments,  the  CX-5  feels  nimble  and  manageable.  Forward  and  lateral  sightlines are excellent thanks to upright A-pillars, relatively slim side mirrors, and an expansive rear window. The turning circle measures an agile 11.2 metres, making suburban carpark navigation straightforward. However, the absence of a 360-degree surround-view camera on the $47,490 Touring model is a frustrating omission, forcing drivers to rely solely on a standard reversing camera with static parking guidelines and ultrasonic sensors.

Throttle  calibration  from  a  standstill  is  linear  and  intuitive.  Mazda  has  avoided  the  aggressive,  lurching  tip-in characteristic  of  some  modern  turbocharged  engines.  The floor-mounted  accelerator  pedal  allows  for  smooth, progressive application of power in slow-moving traffic. The conventional six-speed automatic shifts unobtrusively between ratios, providing positive engagement without the disconnected engine rev flares that characterize CVT- equipped  rivals.  Brake  pedal  feel  is  firm,  consistent,  and  easy  to  modulate,  benefiting  from  the  absence  of regenerative braking hardware.

Powertrain Performance and Acceleration

Where the CX-5 shows its limitations is during demanding acceleration scenarios. Lacking turbocharging or electric motor torque assistance, the 2.5-litre engine requires substantial throttle input to motivate the vehicle’s 1720kg– 1749kg kerb weight. Peak torque of 242Nm does not arrive until 4000rpm, meaning rapid highway overtakes or steep uphill climbs force the six-speed transmission to kick down two or three gears. Under heavy acceleration, the engine revs freely and produces a sporty, mechanical engine note, but forward thrust feels sluggish and labored compared to turbocharged or hybrid segment rivals. Engaging 'Sport' mode holds lower gears longer and sharpens throttle response, but does not alter the fundamental power limitations of the naturally aspirated unit.

Ride Comfort, Handling Composure, and NVH

Chassis dynamics and ride quality represent the CX-5's strongest dynamic attributes. Previous generations earned a  reputation  for  class-leading  cornering  agility,  though  often  at  the  expense  of  a  firm,  busy  ride  over  coarse surfaces. For the 2026 redesign, Mazda has retuned the suspension to deliver a softer, more compliant damping profile that suits Australian road conditions. The longer 2815mm wheelbase pays immense dividends in high-speed stability, filtering out high-frequency road corrugations and pothole edges with composure.

Through corners, body roll is progressive and well-managed. While the steering calibration is slightly lighter and less aggressive than the previous generation, it retains natural weighting, excellent on-center tracking, and intuitive feedback.  The  standard  all-wheel-drive  system  provides  dependable  mechanical  grip  on  rain-slicked  asphalt, preventing front-wheel slip during brisk intersection departures. In terms of Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH), acoustic insulation is noticeably improved over the previous generation. Wind noise around the A-pillars is tightly suppressed at 110km/h on regional motorways, though coarse-chip country bitumen still generates moderate tyre resonance through the 19-inch 225/55R19 wheel and tyre package.

Active Driver Assistance Performance

Mazda’s calibration of its active safety technologies is among the most polished in the mainstream segment. The adaptive  cruise  control  system  manages  stop-and-go  highway  traffic  smoothly,  maintaining  natural  braking distances without sudden deceleration spikes. The lane-keep assist system applies gentle, progressive steering inputs rather than aggressively tugging at the wheel. Furthermore, the driver attention monitoring system operates unobtrusively  in  the  background,  intervening  only  when  genuine  driver  distraction  is  detected,  avoiding  the frustrating, repetitive warning chimes found in several newer competitors.

What are the standard specifications for each variant?

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 range is structured across five AWD grades, offering distinct equipment tiers for Australian buyers.

2026 Mazda CX-5 G25 Pure AWD Standard Equipment:

• 17-inch alloy wheels with 225/65R17 tyres

• LED headlights with automatic on/off function

• High Beam Control (auto high-beam assist)

• 10.25-inch TFT LCD digital instrument display

• 12.9-inch central infotainment touchscreen

• Wired Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto

• Black cloth interior seat upholstery

• 8-way manual driver’s seat adjustment

• Front and rear ultrasonic parking sensors

• Mazda Connected Services compatibility via MyMazda app

2026 Mazda CX-5 G25 Evolve AWD Adds:

• Frameless, auto-dimming interior rear-view mirror

• Power-folding, heated exterior side mirrors

• Heated front seats

• Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto

• Wireless smartphone charging pad

• Smart proximity keyless entry

• Rear-seat directional air conditioning vents

2026 Mazda CX-5 G25 Touring AWD Adds:

• 19-inch machined alloy wheels with 225/55R19 tyres

• Black Maztex leatherette upholstery with synthetic suede inserts

• 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory presets

• Heated steering wheel

• Remote power-operated tailgate

• Active Driving Display (Head-Up Display)

• Roof rails

• Heated front windscreen demister

• Exterior side mirrors with position memory function

2026 Mazda CX-5 G25 GT SP AWD Adds:

• 19-inch gloss-black alloy wheels

• Adaptive LED Headlights (ALH)

• Gloss-black wheel arch mouldings, front grille, and bumper finishes

• 12-speaker Bose premium audio system

• Signature LED headlight and taillight illumination elements

• Customizable interior ambient lighting

• 8-way power-adjustable front passenger seat

• Black genuine leather upholstery

• Heated outboard second-row seats

• Dual rear USB-C charging ports

• 360-degree View Monitor with see-through view functionality

2026 Mazda CX-5 Akera AWD Adds:

• Front-seat active ventilation

• 15.6-inch central infotainment touchscreen

• Panoramic glass sunroof

• Hands-free foot-activated power tailgate

• Steering wheel-mounted gearshift paddle shifters

• Personalise system including Easy Entry and automatic driving position guide

Is the Mazda CX-5 safe?

Passive  safety  engineering  in  the  2026  Mazda  CX-5  relies  on  a  high-rigidity  Skyactiv-Body  architecture incorporating high-tensile steel reinforcements throughout the passenger safety cell, paired with a comprehensive multi-airbag restraint system.

Active safety is governed by Mazda’s i-Activesense suite, standard across every model grade in the lineup.

Standard Safety Equipment Highlights:

• Smart City Brake Support (AEB) with forward, reverse, and turn-across-traffic detection

• Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality

• Blind-spot monitoring with Vehicle Exit Warning

• Front and rear cross-traffic alert

• Lane departure warning

• Lane-keep assist

• Driver attention monitor and alert

• High Beam Control (auto high-beam)

• Reversing camera with dynamic guidelines

• Front and rear ultrasonic parking sensors

• Full LED headlights with auto on/off

Moving up to the GT SP and Akera grades introduces two significant safety upgrades: Adaptive LED Headlamps (ALH), which automatically shade out individual light diodes to prevent blinding oncoming drivers while maintaining high-beam illumination, and the 360-degree View Monitor with see-through view, which projects a virtual overhead perimeter view on the central display during tight parking maneuvers.

How much does the Mazda CX-5 cost to run?

Operational costs for the 2026 Mazda CX-5 present a mixed outcome. While the vehicle benefits from accessible fuel requirements and competitive capped-price servicing, its real-world fuel consumption reflects the limitations of an unassisted naturally aspirated petrol powertrain carrying all-wheel-drive running gear.

Mazda claims an official combined fuel consumption rating of 7.4L/100km under ADR 79/05 testing protocols. In real-world  Australian  conditions,  fuel  consumption  varied  significantly  based  on  driving  environment.   During intensive Sydney metropolitan commuting involving heavy stop-and-start traffic and active air conditioning, the trip computer consistently averaged between 10.2L/100km and 10.8L/100km. This high urban thirst highlights the disadvantage of lacking hybrid electrification in stop-start city driving, where competitor hybrid systems like the Toyota RAV4 achieve sub-5.0L/100km figures.

Conversely, on extended regional highway cruising at steady 110km/h speeds, the 2.5-litre engine settled into a relaxed sixth gear, returning an efficient 6.0L to 6.4L/100km. A key economic benefit for Australian owners is the fuel compatibility: the G25 engine runs on standard 91 RON regular unleaded petrol, avoiding the premium 95/98 RON fuel mandates required by many European and turbocharged competitors. Paired with a 58-litre fuel tank, regional highway touring range approaches 700 to 800 kilometres on a single fill.

Warranty coverage and scheduled servicing

Mazda Australia backs the CX-5 with an established manufacturer ownership program:

Scheduled  maintenance  is  required  every  12  months  or  15,000km,  matching the  industry  standard.  Mazda's capped-price servicing program totals $1,229 over the first 3 years ($409.66/year average) and $2,201 over the first 5 years ($440.20/year average). This transparent pricing structure keeps routine maintenance costs predictable throughout the primary ownership period.

Yeecar’s verdicts on the Mazda CX-5

The third-generation 2026 Mazda CX-5 delivers a practical, well-judged evolutionary update to Australia's favorite mid-size SUV, but does not redefine the segment benchmarks. Its most compelling achievements are structural: a  115mm longer wheelbase and expanded 4690mm body

length decisively solve the rear-seat cramping and modest boot space that hindered previous generations, transforming the CX-5 into a genuine, comfortable five-passenger family vehicle. The standardization of all- wheel drive across every grade provides reassuring traction and wet-weather stability on Australian roads, while the suspension delivers a refined, compliant ride.

However, the CX-5 is held back by conservative powertrain choices at launch. The naturally aspirated 2.5-litre petrol engine feels sluggish when demanded upon, and urban fuel consumption exceeding 10.0L/100km in stop-start traffic is difficult to overlook in a market rapidly embracing hybrid electrification. Furthermore, the relocation of tactile climate dials into a slightly laggy touchscreen interface and the omission of a 360-degree camera on the $47,490 Touring model detract from the package.

For buyers who prioritize cabin roominess, traditional automatic gearbox reliability, standard AWD security, and low fixed servicing costs, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 remains a solid, dependable family proposition.

However, buyers seeking modern electrified efficiency or punchy turbocharged performance may want to await the upcoming hybrid and turbo variants before signing on the dotted line.