The Mazda CX-5 is the Japanese company's best-selling U.S. car. The popular model is also one of the few compact crossover SUVs on the market that starts under $30,000.
I drove the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium Plus for a week to see if it deserves the Newsweek Best New SUV award and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and Highway Loss Data Institute Top Safety Pick+ accolades that it received.
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium Plus all-wheel drive model that I tested is the highest trim of the popular SUV, and it starts at just under $39,000. Entry-level models start at a more modest $29,990.
The vehicle is available in five all-wheel-drive trims.
I've recently tested other crossover gas-powered and electric SUVs, including the Toyota RAV-4
plug-in hybrid, fully electric Chevrolet Blazer, Toyota bZ and Lexus RZ. I have also reviewed three-row SUVs like the Kia EV9 and hybrids such as the Kia Telluride and Toyota Grand Highlander.
Here's what I learned after a week behind the wheel of Mazda's popular two-row crossover SUV.
What makes the 2026 Mazda CX-5 stand out?
The Mazda CX-5 stands out for its modern features, smooth handling and appealing exterior. The vehicle is available in nine colors, including the machine gray metallic that I tested which consistently drew attention during my week behind the wheel.
During testing, the Mazda CX-5 interior and cargo area felt spacious for daily driving needs. Although when my young children were seated across the back row, things got a little crowded as they reached for their seat belts.
I also enjoyed the Mazda CX-5's wireless Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth connectivity, although 15-inch infotainment screen was a little large for my tastes. I drove the Mazda CX-5 over 100 miles in my week of testing, putting it through its paces on flat interstate highways, suburban streets and roads with winding hills and tight corners. It handled each terrain with ease.
How does the 2026 Mazda CX-5 drive?
The Mazda CX-5 had quick acceleration, even on very steep hills, and handled well around tight curves on two-lane roads. It felt powerful when necessary and was also nimble when agility was needed.
The CX-5 gets an EPA-estimated 30 miles per gallon on highways, according to Mazda. The model I tested had 360 miles of range on a full tank of gas and the vehicle said it was averaging 26.2 mpg when it arrived.
The Mazda CX-5 is powered by a SKYACTIV-G 2.5 liter dual overhead camshaft 16-valve 4-cylinder engine. Mazda says it offers 186 pounds per-foot of torque.
Will the 2026 Mazda CX-5 fit your lifestyle?
The Mazda CX-5 that I tested is over 184 inches long, more than 73 inches wide without considering the mirrors, and over 64 inches tall. The model I tested was equipped with a power sliding-glass panoramic moonroof that had a tilt feature.
The 2.5 S Premium Plus model I tested came with built-in navigation and several Google services. It has the MyMazda and Mazda Connected Services system that allows owners to start their cars and adjust temperatures remotely from their phones.
The Mazda CX-5 I tested also has an windshield-projected Active Driving Display that projects driver personalization, warning messages and vehicle messages onto the lower part of the windshield to help keep drivers' eyes focused on the road. The CX-5 is also equipped with safety features such as auto emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, parking sensors and lane keep assist, among other available technologies.
The CX-5 2.5 S Premium Plus model I tested offered nearly 34 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second-row seats, which I found sufficient for luggage and grocery hauls. With the rear seats folded, cargo space expands to more than 66 cubic feet, enough room to tote small pieces of furniture.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 can fit up to five passengers, but as I model it, was a bit of a tight fit with a car seat and two almost-teenagers sitting across the back row. The model I tested offered nearly 39 inches of headroom and more than 41 inches of leg room for front row passengers and close to 40 inches of legroom for the second row seats.
Is the 2026 Mazda CX-5 worth it?
Starting at $29,990, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 costs a lot less than the average price of an new car, which was $50,089 in August, according toCox Automotive's Kelley Blue Book. It's also lower than the average price of a mid-size compact crossover SUV, which was $37,722 in August, according to Cox.
The CX-5 pricing ranges from the entry-level S that starts at just under $30,000 to the top trim 2.5 S Premium Plus that retails for $39,990.
The top trim CX-5 model I tested came with 19‑inch alloy wheels and front row seats that can be heated or ventilated. The CX-5's rear seats can also be heated; it had a 12-speaker Bose premium audio system.
I enjoyed the CX-5 I tested. The car was fun to drive, and it drew positive comments from onlookers who told me they thought it looked good. I also appreciated the CX-5's efficiency as I drove past gas stations that were charging over $4 per gallon.
If I were shopping for a new car today, I'd likely choose the less expensive mid-level 2.5 S Preferred all-wheel-drive trim, which starts at $34,250. The SE trim is the first trim available with 19-inch alloy wheels, and the starting price saves over $4,000 over the more expensive 2.5 S Premium Plus trim.
The Mazda CX-5 competes in the compact crossover SUV segment with models such as the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Ford Escape, Subaru Forester, and Volkswagen Tiguan.
Who should buy the 2026 Mazda CX-5?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 is a compelling option for buyers seeking an affordable compact SUV with sturdy handling and distinctive styling.
With most new cars costing over $50,000, the Mazda CX-5 could be a steal with a starting price under $30,000. It's great vehicle for anyone who is looking to get a new small SUV without breaking the bank.
Keith Laing is an automotive reporter on the National Trending Desk at USA TODAY. Contact Keith at klaing@usatodayco.com.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 2026 Mazda CX-5 review: Premium feel without the premium price
