2026 Mazda CX-5 in Fort Lauderdale, FL
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 is a five-passenger SUV that combines a naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, standard All-Wheel Drive, and a wide range of comfort and driver assistance technologies. The model lineup includes the 2.5 S, 2.5 S Select, 2.5 S Preferred, 2.5 S Premium, and 2.5 S Premium Plus trims, with each grade adding additional equipment and convenience features. Built on a unibody structure, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 incorporates a carefully engineered chassis, advanced infotainment systems, and a comprehensive suite of safety technologies.
Engine and Performance
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 uses a SKYACTIV-G® 2.5 DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder engine equipped with Cylinder Deactivation and i-STOP technology. This direct-injection engine displaces 2,488 cubic centimeters and features an 89.0 mm bore and 100 mm stroke. The engine develops 187 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and produces 186 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. Both the cylinder head and engine block use aluminum alloy construction. The powertrain operates on regular unleaded fuel with a minimum requirement of 87 octane, and the engine has a 13.0:1 compression ratio.
Fuel economy for the 2026 Mazda CX-5 is rated at 24 mpg in city driving, 30 mpg on the highway, and 26 mpg combined. The engine reaches a redline of 6,500 rpm and has a top speed of 116 mph. SAE 0W-20 engine oil is specified for lubrication requirements. Direct coil-on-plug electronic ignition is used, and the electrical system incorporates a 12V-100A alternator, an S-95 battery, and a 12V 1.4 kW starter.
Disclaimer: *MPG based on EPA estimates for 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S models, 24 city/30 highway/26 combined MPG. Actual results will vary.
SKYACTIV-Drive Transmission
Every 2026 Mazda CX-5 model is equipped with a SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic transmission. The transmission includes manual-shift capability and works with Mazda Intelligent Drive Select, which offers Normal, Sport, and Off-road modes. Gear ratios are carefully spaced to support acceleration and cruising efficiency. First gear uses a ratio of 3.552, followed by 2.022 in second gear and 1.452 in third gear. Fourth gear is set at 1.000, while fifth and sixth gears use ratios of 0.708 and 0.599, respectively.
Reverse gear uses a ratio of 3.893, and the final drive ratio is 4.624. Standard i-ACTIV AWD distributes power to all four wheels and works with the transmission to enhance traction. The 2.5 S Premium Plus trim adds steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, allowing drivers to make gear changes manually. The transmission also incorporates a Sport mode for more responsive operation.
Chassis, Suspension, and Handling
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 uses a unibody structure with Ring Structure construction and accommodates up to five occupants. This design supports structural rigidity and provides the foundation for the vehicle’s suspension and steering systems. Independent suspension components are used at both the front and rear. Stabilizer bars are incorporated into each suspension system to assist with body control.
Suspension Configuration
Front suspension duties are handled by an independent MacPherson® strut system with coil springs and a stabilizer bar. At the rear, the SUV uses an independent multi-link suspension with coil springs and a stabilizer bar. These systems are standard across the entire model range. The arrangement allows the suspension to react independently to changing road surfaces.
Steering System
The steering system uses a power-assisted rack-and-pinion design with engine-speed-sensing variable assist. Electric Power Assist Steering provides the steering assistance functions throughout the lineup. The steering ratio measures 14.1:1, and lock-to-lock movement requires 2.75 turns. The turning circle measures 18.4 feet curb-to-curb and 19.7 feet wall-to-wall.
Stability and Control Systems
Several electronic systems support vehicle control in the 2026 Mazda CX-5. Dynamic Stability Control and the Traction Control System operate together to help manage wheel slip and maintain directional stability. Hill Launch Assist assists during starts on inclined surfaces. G-Vectoring Control Plus further contributes to handling behavior and vehicle stability. Anti-lock braking with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and Brake Assist is standard throughout the lineup.
Braking Systems and Wheel Equipment
The braking and wheel systems of the 2026 Mazda CX-5 are designed to provide consistent stopping capability and support all-season operation. Four-wheel disc brakes are fitted across the entire lineup, and all models use an Electronic Parking Brake. Wheel and tire sizes vary depending on trim level.
Brake Components
Ventilated front disc brakes measure 12.9 inches or 328 mm in diameter. Rear solid disc brakes measure 11.8 inches or 325 mm. The anti-lock braking system includes Electronic Brakeforce Distribution to optimize brake pressure. Brake Assist is also integrated into the system.
Wheels and Tires
The 2.5 S and 2.5 S Select trims are equipped with 17 x 7J aluminum alloy wheels finished in Gray Metallic. These models use P225/65 R17 all-season tires. The 2.5 S Preferred, 2.5 S Premium, and 2.5 S Premium Plus use 19 x 7J aluminum alloy wheels paired with P225/55 R19 all-season tires. Wheel finishes vary depending on trim level, including Black Metallic with machining and Black Metallic finishes. A T155/90D17 temporary spare tire is standard across the lineup.
Exterior Features and Dimensions
The exterior design of the 2026 Mazda CX-5 incorporates lighting technologies and convenience features that vary by trim level. Standard LED headlights include auto-leveling capability, automatic on and off operation, daytime running lights, and High Beam Control. Rain-sensing windshield wipers are included on all models. Rear intermittent wipers with washers are also standard equipment. Additional features become available on higher trims.
Lighting and Exterior Equipment
Front and rear signature illumination are available on the Premium and Premium Plus trims. Piano Black finishes are applied to the lower bumpers, rocker moldings, and wheel arch areas on these grades. The Premium Plus model adds an Adaptive Front-Lighting System. Privacy glass is available beginning with the Select trim. Heated side mirrors are offered on higher trims, and automatic power-folding mirrors are included from the Select grade upward.
Utility Features
Roof rails with a black finish are included on the Preferred trim and above. A windshield wiper de-icer is also added beginning with the Preferred model. Power rear liftgates with programmable height adjustment are available on the Preferred and Premium trims. The Premium Plus trim adds hands-free liftgate capability. A panoramic sunroof becomes available on the Premium and Premium Plus models, providing additional natural light inside the cabin.
Exterior Measurements
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 has an overall length of 184.6 inches and a wheelbase measuring 110.8 inches. Overall width measures 73.2 inches without mirrors and 81.8 inches with the mirrors extended. Vehicle height is 66.7 inches. Front and rear track dimensions measure 63.2 inches and 64.0 inches, respectively. Ground clearance ranges from 8.0 inches to 8.2 inches, depending on model grade.
Interior Comfort and Seating
The interior of the 2026 Mazda CX-5 provides seating for five occupants and offers multiple upholstery options depending on trim level. A dual-zone automatic climate control system is standard equipment. The cabin incorporates a combination of manually adjustable and power-adjustable seating configurations. Storage features and convenience technologies are integrated throughout the interior.
Seating Materials and Passenger Amenities
Cloth seating is standard on the 2.5 S model. The Select and Preferred trims use leatherette upholstery with microsuede inserts. Premium and Premium Plus models feature leather seating surfaces. Heated front seats are available beginning with the Preferred trim, while ventilated front seats are included on the Premium and Premium Plus grades. Heated rear seats are also offered on these upper trim levels.
The driver’s seat receives a 10-way power adjustment system with power lumbar support and two-position memory beginning with the Preferred trim. Premium and Premium Plus models add a six-way power-adjustable passenger seat. Rear seats feature a 40/20/40 split-folding design with reclining capability. Rear seat center armrests with integrated cup holders are standard across the lineup. Carpeted floor mats are also included on every trim level.
Convenience Features
Leather-wrapped steering wheels and gear selectors are standard throughout the lineup. Heated steering wheel functionality becomes available on the Preferred trim and above. Ambient lighting with selectable colors is offered on Premium and Premium Plus models. These trims also include front foot lamps and overhead lighting enhancements. Homelink® garage door functionality becomes available beginning with the Preferred trim.
Keyless entry and start functions are standard on the base model, while Smart Keyless functionality is included on higher grades. Rear air vents are introduced on the Select trim. Power windows with one-touch operation are included on all four doors. The Premium Plus model adds a Personalization System. Storage space is supplemented by an overhead console equipped with a sunglasses holder.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Technology features in the 2026 Mazda CX-5 focus on connectivity, convenience, and information access. Every model uses the Mazda Connect™ Infotainment System and includes Wi-Fi capability, Remote Services, Vehicle Status functions, Vehicle Connect Services, voice control, and 911 Emergency Notification capability. Google built-in capable navigation and voice assistant functionality are included. Bluetooth® hands-free communication and HD Radio capability are standard throughout the lineup. Audio systems and display sizes vary by trim level.
Display and Audio Systems
Most trim levels use a 12.9-inch center display paired with a 10.25-inch LCD meter display. The Premium Plus trim receives a larger 15.6-inch center display. An Active Driving Display with a full-color windshield projection is introduced on the Preferred trim and above. Eight-speaker audio systems are standard through the Preferred grade. Premium and Premium Plus models upgrade to a Bose® 12-speaker sound system.
Smartphone Integration and Charging
Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration are standard across the lineup. Wireless smartphone connectivity becomes available beginning with the Select trim. Wireless phone charging is also introduced on the Select grade. Front USB Type-C ports are standard equipment on all models. Rear USB Type-C ports are included on Premium and Premium Plus trims. SiriusXM® 360L satellite radio becomes available on Premium and Premium Plus models.
Driver Assistance and Safety Systems
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 incorporates a wide range of driver assistance technologies and occupant protection systems. Advanced airbags include front, knee, side curtain, and front and rear seat side impact airbags. Blind Spot Monitoring, Driver Attention Alert, and Vehicle Exit Warning are standard equipment. Rear seat reminders and front and rear seat belt reminders are also included. Child safety rear door locks and LATCH anchors provide additional protection for younger passengers.
Active Driver Assistance Technologies
Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Speed Limit Assist is standard on every trim level. Traffic Sign Recognition helps drivers remain aware of posted information. Smart Brake Support with Turn-Across Traffic and Head-On Collision Mitigation contributes to collision avoidance. Rear Smart Brake Support incorporates Rear Cross Traffic Alert and pedestrian detection functions. Emergency Lane Keeping systems include Blind Spot Assist, Road Keep Assist, and Head-On Traffic Avoidance capabilities.
Front and rear parking sensors are standard throughout the lineup. Rearview cameras include dynamic lines and tow hitch guidance. Distance and Speed Alert functions are also included. Secondary Collision Reduction technology provides additional support following an impact event. Tire Pressure Monitoring System functionality is standard on all trims.
Premium Plus Safety Features
The 2.5 S Premium Plus introduces additional driver assistance technologies. Driver Monitoring capability is exclusive to this trim level. Front Cross Traffic Alert with braking functionality further expands awareness during intersections and low-speed maneuvers. A 360 View Monitor provides underfloor, parking, and mirror-folded viewing modes. Cruising and Traffic Support with Lane Change Assist and Unresponsive Driver Support are also included on the Premium Plus model.
Cargo Capacity and Utility
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 provides cargo flexibility alongside passenger accommodations. Passenger volume measures 106.5 cubic feet on most trims, while the Premium Plus model provides 104.5 cubic feet. Cargo volume measures 33.7 cubic feet with all seats in place and expands to 66.5 cubic feet with the second-row seats folded. The cargo area provides multiple dimensions that support loading and storage requirements.
Cargo floor width measures 57.5 inches, and the width between the rear tire houses measures 41.3 inches. Rear tailgate opening width measures 42.8 inches, while opening height measures 30.7 inches. Fuel tank capacity is 15.3 gallons or 58 liters. Roof rail-equipped models support a maximum roof load of 165 pounds. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 also has a towing capacity of 1,500 pounds.
Schedule a Test Ride Today
Drivers interested in experiencing the 2026 Mazda CX-5 can visit Coconut Creek Mazda in Fort Lauderdale, FL, for a closer look at its features and engineering. We invite customers to schedule a test drive to evaluate the performance of the SKYACTIV-G® engine and the standard i-ACTIV AWD system. Our team can demonstrate the infotainment technologies, interior comfort features, and advanced safety systems available throughout the lineup. We are available to help you explore the handling characteristics, cargo flexibility, and connectivity features that distinguish each trim level.
