Mazda Canada has officially lifted the curtain on the 2026 Mazda CX-5, and it’s unlike any CX-5 before it. Larger, more refined, and stripped of nearly all physical buttons, this next-generation crossover signals a dramatic new chapter in Mazda’s product evolution. Designed to compete directly with premium brands while retaining its driver-first roots, the 2026 CX-5 is more than just a compact SUV—it’s Mazda’s boldest mainstream offering yet.
Limited Time Automotive Amazon DealsFor Canadian drivers—who demand capability, efficiency, and comfort in all four seasons—the redesigned CX-5 checks all the right boxes while pushing the segment forward in tech and design.
The new CX-5 adopts a sleeker, more aerodynamic silhouette, continuing Mazda’s Kodo design philosophy with even greater precision. The vehicle is now longer, wider, and lower, moving it visually and functionally closer to the midsize SUV category.
Limited Time Automotive Amazon DealsMazda’s signature grille is now slimmer, and the front end is accentuated by redesigned adaptive LED headlights and a more aggressive lower fascia. The profile is elegant, with smoother lines and a rising beltline, while the rear features wraparound LED taillights and a sculpted liftgate. Overall, the 2026 CX-5 looks more upscale—closer to a luxury SUV than ever before.
Canadian buyers will appreciate the SUV’s improved aerodynamics and increased ground clearance, especially in winter conditions. With wider tracks and a longer wheelbase, the vehicle also promises greater stability on snowy roads and during highway cruising.
Rear-seat legroom is noticeably better than the outgoing model, addressing one of the CX-5’s previous weaknesses. The rear cargo floor is also flatter and easier to load, a welcome change for families and outdoor enthusiasts across Canada.
Inside, the 2026 CX-5 brings a radical change: almost no physical buttons. Instead, Mazda embraces a clean, minimalist dashboard dominated by touch-sensitive surfaces and digital interfaces.
The floating centre display measures 12.3 inches on standard trims and 14.5 inches on premium versions. Climate controls are integrated into a slim digital panel beneath the screen, while the gear shifter has been replaced by a compact electronic selector. The traditional instrument cluster is gone, replaced by a fully digital configurable display.
While some may miss the tactile feel of knobs and switches, the new setup is intuitive after a short learning curve. Voice controls and haptic feedback help reduce driver distraction. Mazda also includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with over-the-air updates and embedded navigation on most trims.
Mazda’s upward push into the near-luxury segment is evident throughout the cabin. The 2026 CX-5 uses premium soft-touch materials, satin aluminum trim, and available Nappa leather with contrast stitching. Heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and dual-zone climate control are standard on all Canadian trims—features especially important in colder provinces.
Top trims also offer ventilated seats, heated rear seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. Quietness is enhanced through acoustic glass and improved sound insulation, delivering a near-luxury driving experience at a mainstream price point.
Mazda Canada has confirmed two gasoline engines will continue for 2026:
| Engine | Power | Torque | Fuel Economy (Est.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5L I4 | 187 hp | 186 lb-ft | 8.5 L/100 km combined |
| 2.5L Turbo I4 | 256 hp | 320 lb-ft (93-octane) | 9.6 L/100 km combined |
A new 48V mild-hybrid system will join the lineup, offering smoother acceleration and marginally better fuel economy without the complexity of a full hybrid. While Mazda has not confirmed a plug-in hybrid variant for Canada, one could follow based on global demand.
i-Activ AWD remains standard on all Canadian models, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. While some competitors use CVTs or dual-clutch gearboxes, Mazda’s conventional automatic provides a smoother and more engaging drive—especially in colder weather where predictable torque delivery is key.
Mazda’s engineering roots are on full display. Despite being larger, the 2026 CX-5 remains agile and responsive thanks to revised suspension geometry, a stiffer chassis, and the latest G-Vectoring Control Plus (GVC+) software. Steering is well-weighted and communicative, offering genuine feedback through corners and on rural Canadian roads.
Ride comfort is improved, especially over potholes and uneven pavement. The 2026 model strikes a better balance between sportiness and comfort compared to the 2025 version.
All Canadian trims will include Mazda i-Activsense safety technology, including:
GT and Signature trims add features like a 360° view monitor, front parking sensors, and front cross-traffic alert. A new infrared driver monitoring camera is also included in upper trims to detect signs of fatigue and inattention.
While official pricing will be released closer to launch, expect the new CX-5 to start around $38,000 CAD for the GS AWD trim and climb to approximately $50,000 CAD for a fully loaded Signature model with the turbo engine and all options.
| Trim (Expected) | Starting Price (CAD) | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| GS AWD | ~$38,000 | 2.5L NA |
| GS Luxury AWD | ~$41,000 | 2.5L NA |
| GT AWD | ~$44,500 | 2.5L Turbo |
| Signature AWD | ~$50,000 | 2.5L Turbo + Mild Hybrid |
Pre-orders are expected to open in late 2025, with the first deliveries arriving across Canada in early 2026.
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 is not just a refresh—it’s a redefinition. By eliminating physical buttons, increasing size and luxury, and embracing electrified tech, Mazda is pushing the boundaries of what a compact SUV can be in Canada.
Drivers who prioritize a dynamic driving experience, refined aesthetics, and winter-ready capability will find the new CX-5 a compelling choice. While its button-less interior may raise eyebrows, its execution and attention to detail elevate it beyond most mainstream rivals.
Mazda’s goal of bridging the gap between luxury and mainstream isn’t just talk—it’s now parked in the driveway.
