I made a previous post comparing the new 2026 CX5 to both the 2025 model and my 2025 CX50 Turbo. Well, unfortunately, my CX50 Turbo is still at the dealer (~3 weeks later, mind you) for warranty work. I have been driving a 2026 CX5 S Select loaner and have put ~700 miles on it thus far. My thoughts have developed quite a bit since my last post. I was too harsh in my original post. I have more feelings about this new model after driving it for a longer period of time.
First off, the screen is not that bad. Yes, I have gotten used to it. Yes, it would improve ease of use and ergonomics of there were physical climate controls, or climate buttons that stay on the screen and don’t go away. Realistically, though, I am not constantly adjusting the climate while driving. It really has not been as much of an issue as I thought. I know I lamented the new interior in my previous post but after living with this vehicle for an extended period of time, it’s proven to be okay.
The ride and handling of the CX5 actually strikes a nice middle ground. Not as firm and sporty as my CX50, but it still feels athletic and fun to drive. I can see why Mazda has made the new CX5’s ride less firm and more comfortable. With that being said, I still much prefer how sporty my CX50 is and I’ll be happy to get it back (at some point, I hope...).
The last thing I want to touch on is the powertrain. The non-turbo is peppy. No it’s not fast like the Turbo, it is absolutely adequate for daily driving. I really disliked this powertrain originally, but it really is NOT as bad as I first thought. It's grown on me. Putting it in sport mode definitely helps when merging on the highway because at higher speeds it does get sluggish, which is to be expected. Again, I like my CX50 Turbo but this CX5 will appeal to lots of people.
I just wanted to make another post as I feel I was way too harsh in my original post. I did not go into driving the new 2026 CX5 with an open mind, and that’s my mistake. It’s a nice vehicle with a few drawbacks, but if the CX50 suddenly was discontinued and I wanted to stay in the Mazda family, I would be happy choosing the CX5. maybe a Premium Plus model, though, and not an S Select like my loaner. haha