In a world that moves as fast as a Bugatti Chiron being chased by a horde of bees, auto manufacturers have to make sure they’re keeping their various models fresh enough to tempt new customers. In a push to remain relevant in the lucrative world of SUVs, Mazda has just launched a refreshed version of its CX-5 compact crossover.
The brand has tried to bring a host of improvements to make the model even more appealing, though not in the engine department. As a result, those after a CX-5 with more power are being left in a strange middle ground.
The Mazda CX-5 Has Lost Its Potent Turbocharged Engine
2026 Mazda CX-5 front 3/4 angleIan Wright/CarBuzz/Valnet
The previous generation CX-5, which was discontinued at the end of the 2025 model year, was available with a pair of different engine options. While most trim levels came with Mazda’s naturally aspirated Skyactiv 2.5-liter inline-four engine, the range-topping variants all came with a turbocharged variant of the powerplant. There was a drastic difference in terms of performance, since the latter laid down a commanding 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque at the request of its driver. And that was on regular fuel, as 256 hp and 320 lb-ft could be achieved when filling the tank with premium gas. This was a considerable improvement on the 187 hp and 185 lb-ft provided by the NA engine, which made the turbo a superior choice for those looking for a bit more performance on their daily commute.
The extra power also came in handy when the CX-5 was used as a family vehicle, as the car was less strained when carrying additional weight. However, as a result of ever more restrictive emissions regulations, Mazda elected to discontinue the option as the new model dawned for the 2026 MY. Instead, the revitalized 2026 CX-5 can only be had with the NA unit, which denies potential customers the extra power of the turbocharged engine.
The primary advantage of the NA unit is that it’s a little more fuel-efficient, with an average MPG figure of 25 versus the 24 MPG achieved by the turbocharged engine. The NA I4’s power delivery is also more linear, since there’s no turbo lag to contend with.
The New CX-5 Builds Upon The Solid Base Of Its Predecessor
2026 Mazda CX-5Ian Wright/CarBuzz/Valnet
While describing the CX-5 as a revolution would be a little extreme, it has been treated to a range of changes that make it a stronger proposition in the competitive world of crossovers than ever before. Its 4.5-inch longer wheelbase affords a decent chunk of extra space for rear passengers, while also boosting cargo space a little versus the old car. This makes it more versatile for families, and it also gets a revised infotainment system. Out is the old wheel-controlled system, and in is a more conventional choice of touchscreen.
The new design makes it easier to use Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and also makes the cabin look that bit more modern than the old CX-5. Mazda also did a good job of cutting costs in such a way as to keep the model’s MSRP identical to its predecessor, but without compromising overall quality. The 2026 CX-5 not only presents extra space, but the cabin is also more refined than ever before. The CX-5 also rides better than before, though this comes with the penalty of not being as light on its feet on the open road. Given it’ll spend most of its life ferrying families around, though, this is a reasonable trade-off. Besides, Mazda could also produce a sportier variant at some point.
Those After More Grunt Won’t Have Long To Wait
2026 Mazda CX-5Mazda
And that could come sooner than you might think. Mazda is busy developing a hybrid version of the new CX-5, and it’s set to make its debut sometime in 2027. This new hybrid model will essentially replace the old turbo machine, since it will produce a similar amount of power, if not more, but in a more efficient manner. The powertrain will utilize a newly developed 2.5-liter Skyactiv-Z engine, and it’s set to be clean enough to last Mazda well into the future, whether in the US or European markets. We don’t have any concrete information regarding the price of the new hybrid, but there is a chance it could be comfortably more affordable than the Turbo model that came before.
Consequently, buyers in the market for a CX-5 have a choice to make. Do you wait a year for the hybrid to arrive, or pull the trigger and get a 2026 variant with the tried-and-tested NA 2.5 engine? If the rumors about its impressive starting MSRP come true, then the combination of power and efficiency will likely be hard to overlook, especially given the base engine is starting to show its age. Holding off for a year may be a good plan, unless saving money by opting for the standard engine is the priority.
The 2026 CX-5 is already a very strong crossover contender, but we reckon the addition of Mazda’s new hybrid engine could make it an even tougher competitor for the likes of Honda and Toyota.
Those After Turbo Power Can Save A Load Of Cash
Red 2025 Mazda CX-5 frontMazda
If the new CX-5 and its hybrid powertrain hold little appeal, and you’d rather enjoy turbocharged performance, then there’s always the used market to consider. Thanks to depreciation, you could pick up a 2025 CX-5 with the turbocharged engine for well under base MSRP. According to the CarBuzz Marketplace, you can save around $4,000 by buying a lightly used, year-old example. The average value for the Turbo Premium Package trim, which retailed for $38,000 just 12 months ago, now sits at just $33,807.
The same savings can be found with the range-topping Turbo Signature variant, which would have set you back $40,800 when it was brand new. In 2026, around $36,700 will be enough to get you a tidy specimen. With cooled and heated Nappa leather seats, an electric sunroof, Adaptive Cruise Control, and a heated steering wheel all coming as standard with the Signature, it’s a great way of getting a practical and comfortable crossover with a bit of bite.
Whichever version of the CX-5 best suits your needs, around $35k will get you an excellent one. You’ll just have to exercise a little more patience if the hybrid appeals to you.
Base Trim Engine
2.5-L Inline 4
Base Trim Transmission
6-speed automatic
Base Trim Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Base Trim Horsepower
187 hp
Base Trim Torque
185 lb-ft
Segment
Compact SUV
Sources: Mazda.
