Model guide · Frank Boucher Mazda of Racine
The 2026 Mazda CX‑5 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting redesigns Mazda has rolled out in years, and customers around Racine, WI, are already buzzing about what’s new. At Frank Boucher Mazda of Racine, the team has been watching every update closely because this model is a big deal for drivers who want style, comfort, and capability without going overboard. And honestly, who doesn’t love it when a familiar favorite gets a fresh new look?
Key takeaways
Mazda has overhauled the CX‑5 for 2026 with a sharper exterior, a more refined cabin, upgraded technology, and a more efficient powertrain lineup. It’s a noticeable step forward over the 2025 model, especially in interior space, safety tech, and overall driving feel.
The redesign focuses on elevating the CX‑5’s premium feel while keeping its athletic personality intact. Expect a sleeker grille, slimmer LED lighting, and more sculpted body lines that give it a modern, upscale stance. Inside, Mazda has expanded cargo capacity and improved legroom and headroom, especially in the second row—something families will appreciate on longer drives. The updated infotainment system is faster and more intuitive, and the available panoramic display brings a more immersive experience. One of the biggest upgrades is the new hybrid powertrain option, which boosts efficiency without sacrificing the sporty handling the Mazda CX‑5 2026 is known for.
Quick Highlights
The 2026 model is more refined, more spacious, and more technologically advanced than the 2025 CX‑5. Mazda didn’t just tweak a few features—they rethought the SUV’s layout, powertrain options, and cabin experience.
Compared to the 2025 version, the 2026 CX‑5 offers a more premium interior with higher‑quality materials and a cleaner, more modern dashboard design. The infotainment system now supports a larger screen with improved responsiveness, and the safety suite includes enhanced sensors and new driver‑assist features. The mild-hybrid engine option is another major difference, offering better fuel economy and smoother acceleration. Cargo space has increased thanks to a redesigned rear section, and passengers get more shoulder room and improved seat ergonomics. These changes make the 2026 Mazda CX‑5 feel more like a near‑luxury SUV than a traditional compact crossover.
| Category | 2025 Mazda CX‑5 | 2026 Mazda CX‑5 | What’s New / Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Platform & Design | Carryover design | Full redesign New | Sharper exterior, new grille, slimmer LEDs, more sculpted body lines |
| Powertrain Options | Gas engines only | Gas + mild‑hybrid New | Better efficiency, smoother low‑speed performance |
| Infotainment Screen | Smaller display | Larger, faster system New | Improved responsiveness + cleaner UI |
| Interior Space | Moderate | Expanded New | More rear legroom, headroom, and shoulder room |
| Safety Features | Standard i‑Activsense | Enhanced suite New | Better sensors, improved lane‑centering, upgraded collision detection |
| Interior Materials | Premium for class | More upscale, near‑luxury | Higher‑quality materials + cleaner dashboard layout |
| Exterior Styling | Traditional CX‑5 look | More modern + aerodynamic | Stronger road presence and improved efficiency |
| Driving Dynamics | Sporty, responsive | Sporty + smoother torque | More refined everyday driving feel |
The biggest standouts are the upgraded powertrain options, the redesigned interior, and the expanded technology suite. Mazda focused on making the CX‑5 feel more premium and more efficient without losing its fun‑to‑drive personality.
The new hybrid engine is a major highlight, offering improved fuel economy and smoother low‑speed performance. Inside, the cabin feels more open thanks to increased dimensions and a more minimalist design. The new infotainment system now features a larger touchscreen, wireless smartphone integration, and a more responsive interface. Safety tech also gets a boost with improved radar, enhanced lane‑centering, and better low‑visibility detection. Exterior updates include a more aerodynamic shape, new wheel designs, and a bolder front fascia. Altogether, these upgrades make the Mazda CX‑5 2026 feel like a significant leap forward.
| Interior Measurement | 2025 CX‑5 | 2026 CX‑5 (Estimated) | What’s Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Front Headroom | 39.3 in | 40.2 in | Slight increase thanks to redesigned roofline |
| Rear Headroom | 39.0 in | 39.7 in | More open feel for taller passengers |
| Front Legroom | 41.0 in | 55.2 in | Improved seat travel + cabin reshaping |
| Rear Legroom | 39.7 in | 52.4 in | Better knee room for second‑row riders |
| Front Shoulder Room | 57.1 in | 57.6 in | Wider cabin layout |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 54.9 in | 55.6 in | More comfort for three‑across seating |
| Cargo Space (Behind 2nd Row) | 29.1 cu ft | 33.7 cu ft | Expanded rear section increases usable space |
| Cargo Space (Max) | 59.3 cu ft | 66.5 cu ft | Flatter load floor + improved folding mechanism |
Frank Boucher Mazda of Racine
The 2026 Mazda CX‑5 redesign brings meaningful improvements across the board—more space, more tech, better efficiency, and a more premium feel. It’s the kind of upgrade that makes everyday driving more enjoyable, whether you’re commuting through Racine, WI, or heading out on a weekend trip.
If you’re curious about the redesign, want to compare trims, or are considering an upgrade, the team at Frank Boucher Mazda of Racine is here to help. Browse inventory, schedule a test drive, or stop by to see what’s new for 2026.
What engines will the 2026 Mazda CX‑5 offer?
Expect a mix of traditional gas engines and a new mild‑hybrid option for better efficiency.
Did the interior dimensions change for 2026?
Yes—Mazda expanded legroom, headroom, and cargo space to make the cabin more comfortable.
Is the 2026 CX‑5 safer than the 2025 model?
Absolutely. The updated safety suite includes improved sensors and new driver‑assist features.
What’s new in the 2026 Mazda CX‑5 redesign?
Mazda updated the CX‑5 with a sharper exterior, more interior space, upgraded tech, and more.
