2026 Mazda CX-5 First Drive: The SUV That Changes Everything
Drove the 2026 Mazda CX-5 all day twisty roads highways construction zones feeling that zoom zoom alive still but bigger roomier now kinda game changer class. Redesigned longer wheelbase packs more rear leg cargo tech jumps big screens no rotary knob shock maybe love hate. Ride smooths MX-5 tuned suspension soaks bumps keeps grip fun not harsh comfort win.
Bigger Better Space
CX-5 grows 4.5 inches longer wheelbase stretches rear legs fit tall folks behind self easy seats angle right no cram. Cargo swallows skis surfboards middle seat drops clever four adults luggage no sweat feels mid size now small class. Door openings wide lift height drops loading breeze maybe overthought.
Smooth Ride Surprise
Suspension tunes Miata style struts multi-link soak rough patches confident control no bobble highways glide construction pockmarks vanish. Sport mode revs hold paddle shifts manual fun normal chills quiet exhaust pops wide throttle mild nice shock. Not fast linear power plenty daily twisties shine comfort first maybe.
Cabin Upscale Feel
Seats hug wide adjust tall drivers headroom sunroof no brush plush materials ambient lights seven colors dash clean buttons physical some touchscreens rule now. Visibility thin pillars mirrors sharp sit height right road view clear park easy. Noise wind road hushed premium vibe holds speed up.
Tech Leap Forward
Big screen 12.9 inch standard 15.6 optional Google built-in maps voice Play Store wireless CarPlay Android Auto slick no dial fumbling menus sharp. Instruments 10 inch HUD head-up clear updates quick phone pairs smooth iPhone Android both fine. Safety suite cameras brakes alerts work highway bacon saver glitches rare noted.
Engine Ho-Hum Power
2.5 liter naturally aspirated 187 horses 186 torque six speed auto AWD standard peppy city highway lazy pass slow turbo gone launch hybrid 2027 waits. Fuel 28 mpg mixed real world okay thirsty city cold starts rough maybe. Smooth revs flexible quiet drive emphasis no drama.
Handling Joy Lives
Steering chats road planted turns carve flat confident not soft feedback satisfying comfort balance class best. Brakes blend firm progressive i-Activ grips slick snow dry fun not tossable Miata extremes family fine. Off-road mode meh pavement king mostly.
Practical Wins Daily
Split seats cargo flexible roof rails bikes strollers vanish flat load low height easy family hauls no fuss. USB-C ports armrests soft touch quality holds sun fade slow. Trunk deep tall gear fits weekends sorted.
Price Value Tempts
Starts low trims pack punch premium plus panoramic fancy competes RAV4 CR-V Tucson space tech ride edge. Resale holds Mazda rep strong warranty solid peace early. Rivals chase dynamics comfort mix killer maybe buy now.
