The 2026 Mazda CX-5, spotted testing in the US and Europe, features a sleek design, hybrid powertrain, and advanced tech. Expected debut in 2025.


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The highly anticipated third-generation Mazda CX-5 has been spotted undergoing testing in both North America and Europe. Spy photographers captured camouflaged prototypes of the SUV on public roads in Los Angeles and Germany. The upcoming CX-5 is expected to debut in 2025 as a 2026 model year vehicle, featuring a fully hybrid powertrain developed in-house by Mazda.

2026 Mazda CX-5 Design with a Familiar Feel

🔍 Sleek and Modern Styling

Despite being covered in camouflage, the prototype reveals some key design elements that blend Mazda’s signature aesthetics with a modern twist. The headlights are slimmer, seamlessly integrating into the grille, reminiscent of the Mercedes EQC. The front bumper retains a minimalist and sculpted look with a single cooling intake.

🛞 Refined Side and Rear Profiles

The squared-off wheel arches resemble the CX-50 but with subtle plastic cladding, which may be body-colored in higher trims. At the rear, the CX-5 showcases redesigned taillights inspired by Mazda’s larger SUV lineup (CX-60, CX-70, CX-80, and CX-90). The LED graphics add a premium touch, while the large tailgate and dual tailpipes provide a sporty appeal.

2026 Mazda CX-5

Differences in European and North American Versions

While the overall design remains consistent, one notable difference between the U.S. and European versions is the turn signal markers. The North American prototype features amber-colored indicators at the headlight corners, whereas the European model adopts a slightly different design. However, since these are still test vehicles, minor changes could be introduced before the final production version rolls out.

2026 Mazda CX-5

2026 Mazda CX-5  Interior & Technology

🖥️ Premium Cabin Experience

Although the interior remains under wraps, Mazda is expected to offer a refined cabin with high-quality materials and the latest technology. Borrowing elements from its larger SUVs, the 2026 CX-5 could feature a fully digital instrument cluster, a larger infotainment display, and an intuitive user interface.

🎵 Enhanced Comfort and Connectivity

Expect improvements in sound insulation, a premium audio system, and upgraded driver-assist features for a smoother and safer ride. Mazda has consistently delivered interiors that exceed expectations in terms of luxury and functionality, and the CX-5 is likely to continue this trend.

2026 Mazda CX-5

2026 Mazda CX-5 Powertrain

⚡ Electrification and Efficiency

One of the biggest upgrades is the introduction of an in-house-developed hybrid powertrain. Unlike the Toyota-sourced hybrid system in the CX-50, the new CX-5 will feature Mazda’s own self-charging hybrid technology, offering better fuel efficiency and lower emissions.

🚀 Next-Gen Skyactiv-Z Engine

Looking beyond the hybrid, Mazda plans to introduce its next-generation Skyactiv-Z powertrains by 2027, promising significant advancements in efficiency and performance. While exact details are yet to be revealed, this marks a crucial step in Mazda’s electrification strategy.

2026 Mazda CX-5

2026 Mazda CX-5 Specifications 

Feature

Specification Details

Engine

In-house Hybrid Powertrain

Platform

Skyactiv Architecture

Transmission

TBD (Possibly CVT or 8-speed Auto)

Drivetrain

FWD & AWD Options

Infotainment

Updated Mazda Connect System

Safety Features

Advanced Driver Assistance Suite

Expected Release

2025 (as 2026 model year)

Competitors

Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Subaru Forester

2026 Mazda CX-5 Expected Launch and Market Positioning

đź“… Launch Timeline

The current second-generation CX-5 debuted in 2016 and received a facelift in 2021. With nearly a decade in the market, the new model is expected to be revealed in the coming months, with a market launch in 2025 as a 2026 model year vehicle. Given Mazda’s production schedule, some markets may receive the CX-5 as a 2027 model year SUV.

🏆 Competition in the Compact SUV Segment

The Mazda CX-5 continues to be one of the brand’s best-selling models, competing with rivals like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Subaru Forester. With its hybrid technology and premium design, the new CX-5 is expected to strengthen Mazda’s position in the highly competitive compact SUV segment.

FAQ

The new CX-5 is expected to be revealed in 2025, with a market launch as a 2026 model year vehicle.

Yes, Mazda has confirmed that the 2026 CX-5 will feature a self-charging hybrid powertrain developed in-house.

The new CX-5 features slimmer headlights, a sculpted bumper, redesigned taillights, and squared-off wheel arches.

The primary difference is in the turn signal markers—amber-colored for the U.S. model and a different design for the European version.

The new CX-5 will be based on Mazda’s Skyactiv architecture.

Yes, it is expected to come with a fully digital instrument cluster and an upgraded infotainment system.

The exact details are not confirmed, but it may offer a CVT or an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Key competitors include the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Subaru Forester.

Yes, both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) options are expected.

Mazda will equip the CX-5 with an advanced driver-assistance suite for enhanced safety.

The CX-5 is a more mainstream compact SUV, while the CX-50 has a rugged design and off-road capabilities.

Yes, thanks to its new hybrid system, the 2026 CX-5 is expected to offer better fuel economy.

It will include the latest Mazda Connect infotainment system with a larger display.

While the CX-5 will be hybrid, Mazda’s fully electric models are expected under a different lineup.

Yes, some regions may receive it as a 2027 model year vehicle depending on the launch timeline.

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