Design & Size: Evolved, Not Ruined
- The new CX‑5 keeps its signature proportions but is about 4–4.5 inches longer and has a longer wheelbase (~3 inches), translating to more rear legroom and cargo space
- Expect sharper styling: sleeker LED lights, a wider grille, and minimalist body lines reminiscent of the CX‑90, giving it a more modern but still refined Mazda look .
Interior & Tech: Bold Shift
- Inside, Mazda has largely ditched physical buttons—climate control and settings are now handled via a large touchscreen (12.9″ standard, 15.6″ top trims) and Google‑built infotainment. That’s a radical departure for Mazda .
- Feedback is mixed: while the minimalist design looks clean, some find it overly minimal. Reviews note the infotainment moves away from rotary knobs entirely
Powertrain & Performance: Stability First
- It retains the proven 2.5 L petrol engine (187 hp), with mild-hybrid tech on tap; a full hybrid arrives in 2027
- Underpinning and driving dynamics are expected to remain sporty, with Mazda preserving its drive-focused heritage
Space & Practicality: Slight Improvements
- Rear cabin is roomier thanks to the longer wheelbase, but still not among class leaders. Cargo is better, but rivals like CR‑V and RAV4 still offer more
Community Reactions
From Reddit:
Final Verdict
Not ruined, but evolved. Mazda’s aiming to modernize the CX‑5 with sharper design, bigger interior, and tech upgrades. The biggest departure is the minimalist cockpit with touchscreen dominance—expect lively opinions there. Performance and driving feel remain true to Mazda’s DNA, so if you value that, the new CX‑5 delivers.