The CX-5 Grows Up: Meet the All-New 2026 Edition
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 is the third generation of this highly popular medium family SUV in Australia. It keeps familiar styling but adds sharper, more angular design cues inspired by larger Mazda models like the CX-70 and CX-90. The design, built on Mazda's latest SUV concept, adopts both aesthetics and functionality.
Inside, the new CX-5 has more space and an upgraded interior. Mazda has really upped the infotainment system, featuring a larger screen and a nicely streamlined dashboard. Outside, it's grown in size, including having a longer wheelbase, which directly improves rear passenger comfort and adds to a larger boot for families.
With the latest car, initially, it will be launching with a similar petrol engine. Mazda has also confirmed a new in-house developed Skyactiv-Z hybrid powertrain that will follow. This strategic move aims to address the growing demand for cleaner electrified family cars in the competitive Australian SUV market.
Performance
At its Australian launch in the second half of 2026, the new CX-5l features a recalibrated 2.5-litre Skyactiv-G naturally aspirated petrol engine. This engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive powertrain, providing 132 kW of power and 242 Nm of torque. This setup gives SUV buyers reliable performance on daily drives.
While the launch engine is brought over with a slight detune, Mazda says that there are improvements in throttle response and is generally quieter when highway driving. The outgoing 2.5-litre turbo-petrol engine will no longer be offered, shifting the focus towards efficiency, fuel saving and future electrified variants.
More importantly, Mazda's new in-house developed Skyactiv-Z petrol-electric hybrid powertrain is pencilled to arrive in Australia from 2027. This hybrid is expected to offer performance comparable to or exceeding the previous turbo engine, delivering enhanced fuel efficiency and Mazda's signature engaging driving dynamics that many family SUV buyers love about their Mazdas.
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Mazda CX-5 2026 Specs
| Engine | 2.5L SKYACTIV-G 4-CYLINDER PETROL* |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 6-SPEED AUTOMATIC |
| Power/Torque | 132kW / 242Nm |
| Body Type | 5D SUV |
| Drivetrain | i-ACTIV AWD (STANDARD) |
| Variants | TBC (Hybrid to be confirmed) |
Pros and Cons
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Verdict
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 is an evolution of the already popular family SUV. It upgrades the design, practicality, and driving enjoyment that many have been looking forward to. While the initial lack of a hybrid option at launch might put some buyers off, its larger, more refined interior, upgraded tech, and expected future hybrid powertrain set it ahead of the pack with its rivals. It's a great choice for those wanting a stylish, safe, and well-handling medium SUV for Aussie family SUV buyers.
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