They may not feel as exhilarating as the Miata, but these two siblings share one important characteristic.
2026 Mazda CX-5 SUV will be equipped with a new infotainment system
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 SUV’s new infotainment system is a major upgrade from the past.
- Mazda’s popular small SUV is longer, heavier and offers more rear passenger compartment.
- The redesigned CX-5 starts at $29,990 and is powered by a 187 horsepower engine.
Mazda’s most popular nameplate, the CX-5 small SUV, has received some significant upgrades for its latest model.
According to its annual sales report, Mazda sold 136,335 CX-5 models in 2025. Sales of the CX-5 increased by 1.7% from the previous year starting in 2024.
There’s a lot to love about Mazda’s small SUV, but it’s even better thanks to some design improvements that take inspiration from one of its sportier siblings.
Mazda CX-5 takes cues from Miata for improved driving dynamics
Mainstream small SUVs are generally more practical than sporty, but Mazda has emphasized smooth character lines, engaging performance, and a luxurious cabin in the design language of recent CX-5 models. While the CX-5 already has sportier trims for driving enthusiasts, the nameplate itself has been completely revised for 2026 thanks to Miata.
According to automotive news site Motor1, the latest CX-5 model features a “reimagined suspension setup inspired by the MX-5 Miata.” This gives the CX-5 a smoother, more comfortable ride, which is huge for a modern family SUV.
Mazda’s CX-5 may not have much in common with the brand’s popular roadster, but the Miata’s driver-centered design improves the overall ride quality of both models.
Why is the Mazda Miata so iconic?
The Mazda Miata continues to be an affordable roadster model that produces commendable performance specs. This is a vehicle for enthusiasts that can be enjoyed without spending a lot of money.
Between its small size, convertible roof, and peppy powertrain, the Miata has become the epitome of driving pleasure. There are also plenty of aftermarket parts available that allow drivers to customize everything from the performance to the appearance of their Roadster.
Pricing for the 2026 Mazda Miata starts at $30,430. It is equipped with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 181 horsepower. The Miata gets 29 miles per gallon combined.
What else is new in the 2026 Mazda CX-5 small SUV?
Aside from the new and improved suspension, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 is now 4.5 inches longer. It’s also about 180 pounds heavier than the 2025 CX-5. Exterior updates include a new front end and clearer character lines.
The redesigned CX-5 features more rear passenger compartment than the previous generation. New infotainment technology and controls are also standard. Overall, the latest CX-5 has more space and better standard technology than previous models.
Is Mazda CX-5 worth buying?
Pricing for the 2026 Mazda CX-5 starts at $29,990 before taxes and surcharges. Five trims are available, starting with the 2.5 S base model.
It’s powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 187 horsepower and gets 26 miles per gallon combined.
Mr. Edmunds praised the new CX-5 as being more comfortable than the previous model, saying, “There’s more legroom and more cargo space.” The 2026 Mazda CX-5 offers solid value for the money, but it still loses out to best-selling models in its segment like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V.
If you’re looking for a refined, classy family SUV at an affordable price, the CX-5 is worth considering over its popular rivals. If you want a more traditional, practical family SUV, competitors tend to rank higher than Mazda’s CX-5 in that segment.
