Mazda's next top model! 2026 Mazda CX-5 debuts, but where is the hybrid car option to take on rivals like the Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage

The new Mazda CX-5 has made its global debut, with the third generation of Mazda’s popular mid-size SUV featuring an updated design and interior.

Following on from other models moving upmarket, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 appears to have a more premium interior and elements that share an overall design language with the likes of the CX-60.

Importantly, Mazda Australia has also confirmed some local details including what we can expect from the new Toyota RAV4 rival in terms of drivetrain technology.

While Mazda says a hybrid drivetrain will be on offer for the Australian market at some point in the future, its launch engine will be familiar to the Mazda faithful - a 2.5-litre four-cylinder naturally aspirated Skyactiv-G unit mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

Its outputs are quoted as 132kW and 242Nm, this power and torque reportedly going to all four wheels. The similar atmo 2.5-litre engine available now makes 140kW/252Nm in the CX-5. Also note that other global markets will have access to drivetrains in the new generation car that Australia won’t get.

Mazda also says it is introducing a new suite of advanced driver assistance system features (ADAS) though hasn’t outlined exactly what they are as of yet.

In terms of design, Mazda says the new CX-5’s updated look remains linked to the brand’s 'Kodo' design language, though was in part inspired by the Japanese architecture principle of ‘Kigumi’, which uses wood joinery rather than screws and nails.

 

 

 

 

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Mazda says this is especially visible at the joining of the bodywork and wing trim, adding that its more angular lighting ties the new CX-5 into larger models like the CX-70 and CX-90.

The new CX-5 also follows the trend of using lettering badges rather than a logo for the car’s rear.

Overall, the new CX-5 is 115mm longer than before, while also 15mm wider and with a 115mm longer wheelbase. It’s 4690mm long, 1860mm wide and 1695mm tall.

Mazda adds that the increased dimensions add more interior space, with the cargo compartment growing to 50mm longer than before and with a drop-down floor that’s 18mm lower. Mazda hasn’t specified a total capacity.

While local specifications and features aren’t yet locked in, the key interior and comfort updates outlined in Mazda’s announcement include wider opening doors, a panoramic sunroof option, ambient lighting and a 15.6-inch multimedia touchscreen which is the “largest ever offered on a Mazda vehicle”.

It appears to be the end of Mazda’s ‘scroll dial’ media control system for the CX-5, which incorporates a physical dial in the centre console near the shifter. It means Mazda is moving to a touchscreen system (while on the move as opposed to in park only) as is now standard.

In terms of timing, Mazda Australia has only locked in that the new-generation CX-5 will launch in Australia some time in 2026.