The wait is finally over for Australian families who’ve been holding their breath for the next generation of Mazda’s beloved CX-5. After dominating our driveways for over a decade, the iconic medium SUV is getting its most significant transformation yet, and frankly, it’s about time.
Mazda Australia has officially confirmed that the third-generation CX-5 will hit our showrooms in the second half of 2026, and the early details suggest this isn’t just a gentle facelift – it’s a complete reimagining of what has become one of our most trusted family vehicles.
Size Matters: Growing Up for Australian Families
Let’s start with the elephant in the room – or should we say, the bigger elephant. The 2026 CX-5 has grown significantly, stretching 115mm longer with a 115mm longer wheelbase and gaining 15mm in width. For those keeping score at home, that’s roughly the length of a smartphone added to both the overall vehicle and the distance between the wheels.
This growth spurt isn’t just about bragging rights at the local school pick-up. It translates into genuine real-world benefits for Australian families. The larger door openings make it easier for parents loading car seats, while rear passengers get increased leg, knee, and headroom. Anyone who’s endured a road trip from Sydney to the Gold Coast with teenagers complaining about cramped quarters will appreciate this development.
The cargo area has also received attention, though Mazda hasn’t released specific figures yet. What we do know is that the design team focused heavily on practical family usage, which suggests we can expect more weekend camping gear to fit comfortably behind the rear seats.
A Fresh Face That’s Still Recognisably CX-5
Mazda’s designers faced a challenging brief: evolve the CX-5’s appearance without alienating the hundreds of thousands of Australian owners who fell in love with the original design. The solution came through their “Wearable Gear” concept, inspired by functional yet stylish clothing that works in various situations.
The exterior styling works off a familiar silhouette that clearly communicates this is a CX-5 while incorporating elements of the new Kodo design language seen in Mazda’s CX-70 and CX-90 SUVs. The front end receives the most dramatic changes, with a more chiselled appearance and the signature Mazda grille positioned between angular lighting elements.
The design philosophy draws inspiration from traditional Japanese architecture, specifically the “Kigumi” principle where precise wood joinery creates structure without nails or screws. This attention to detail reflects Mazda’s commitment to craftsmanship that resonates with Australian buyers who appreciate quality over flash.
Technology That Actually Makes Sense
Inside the cabin, Mazda has finally addressed one of the biggest criticisms of the current model – the technology package. The 2026 CX-5 will debut full touchscreen technology and could receive Mazda’s bigger 12.3-inch display, a significant upgrade from the current 10.25-inch system.
More importantly for daily driving, the interior has been completely reimagined with what Mazda calls an “uncluttered, spacious cabin that is serene and functional.” Translation: they’ve moved past the maze of buttons and switches that plague some competitors, creating a space where you can actually find what you need while keeping your eyes on the road.
The digital instrument cluster is also getting an overhaul, with the possibility of a full digital display replacing the current 7-inch TFT unit. For Australian drivers who spend significant time commuting, clearer instrumentation isn’t just nice to have – it’s essential for safety and convenience.
Engine Choices: Familiar Power with Future Promise
Here’s where things get interesting, and perhaps slightly controversial. The 2026 CX-5 will launch in Australia with only a detuned 132kW/242Nm version of the familiar 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, down from the current 140kW/252Nm. Before you panic about lost performance, Mazda claims this recalibration delivers improvements in flexibility, response, and quietness.
The engine pairs with Mazda’s proven six-speed automatic transmission and their i-Activ all-wheel-drive system as standard – a configuration that has served Australian families well across diverse driving conditions from city traffic to weekend beach trips.
The bigger news concerns what’s coming next. Mazda Australia managing director Vinesh Bhindi confirmed that “the next generation CX-5 will have full hybrid technology as an option”, though timing remains unconfirmed for the Australian market.
This hybrid system represents Mazda’s first serious foray into electrification for their volume sellers in Australia. The technology will be developed in-house rather than sourced from Toyota (unlike some competitors), potentially offering better integration with Mazda’s existing drivetrain philosophy.
Safety: Meeting Australian Expectations
To achieve a five-star ANCAP safety rating, the new CX-5 would need a front centre airbag and other safety equipment like driver attention monitoring. Mazda understands that Australian families won’t compromise on safety, especially given our diverse driving conditions and long-distance travel patterns.
The current CX-5 already includes comprehensive safety technology like High Beam Control, Lane Departure Warning, Mazda Radar Cruise Control, and Smart City Brake Support across the range. The 2026 model will build on this foundation with additional active safety features that have become standard expectations rather than luxury extras.
Market Reality: The Competition Heats Up
The CX-5 was the eighth best-selling vehicle in Australia last year, placing third in the high-volume mid-size SUV segment behind the Toyota RAV4 and Mitsubishi Outlander. This represents a slide from its previous dominance, largely due to increased competition and the current model’s age.
The timing of the 2026 model’s arrival is crucial. The new generation RAV4 adds a plug-in hybrid in 2026, meaning it will directly compete with a stream of new Chinese mid-size SUV PHEVs rolling into Australia. Mazda can’t afford to be late to the electrification party, especially in a market where fuel prices and environmental consciousness continue to influence purchasing decisions.
What This Means for Australian Buyers
The current CX-5 starts at $36,590 for the base Maxx and tops out at $55,000 for the range-topping Akera. The additional equipment and safety upgrades are expected to push up prices, though Mazda hasn’t released official Australian pricing.
For families considering their next vehicle purchase, the timing creates an interesting dilemma. The current CX-5 represents excellent value as dealers clear inventory ahead of the new model. However, the significantly improved space, technology, and future hybrid availability might justify waiting for the 2026 model.
The Hybrid Question: Timing is Everything
While hybrid technology will eventually arrive, Mazda said a hybrid CX-5 will go on sale in the Australian market eventually “but timing is as yet unconfirmed”. This uncertainty reflects the complexity of introducing electrified powertrains across different markets with varying infrastructure and regulatory requirements.
Australian buyers who prioritise fuel efficiency might need to wait longer than anticipated for the hybrid option. However, the improved engine calibration in the initial 2.5-litre variant should deliver better fuel economy than the current model, even without electric assistance.
A New Chapter for an Australian Icon
Since launching in 2012, more than 316,000 CX-5s have been sold in Australia, making it not just Mazda’s best-seller but a genuine automotive success story. The challenge for the 2026 model lies in maintaining this momentum while adapting to changing market conditions.
The increased size addresses criticism about space, the technology upgrades tackle connectivity concerns, and the promise of hybrid power signals Mazda’s commitment to environmental responsibility. Whether these improvements can reclaim the CX-5’s position atop the medium SUV segment remains to be seen.
What’s certain is that Australian families have high expectations for the next-generation CX-5. Based on early indications, Mazda appears to understand these expectations and has developed a vehicle that grows with evolving family needs while maintaining the driving dynamics that made the original so appealing.
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 represents more than just another model update – it’s a statement about Mazda’s commitment to the Australian market and their understanding of what local families truly need from their vehicles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will the 2026 Mazda CX-5 be available in Australia? A: The all-new 2026 Mazda CX-5 is confirmed to arrive in Australian showrooms during the second half of 2026, with exact timing to be announced closer to launch.
Q: Will the 2026 CX-5 be more expensive than the current model? A: While official pricing hasn’t been announced, industry experts expect price increases due to additional safety equipment, larger size, and advanced technology features. Current CX-5 pricing ranges from $36,590 to $55,000.
Q: What engine options will be available at launch? A: Initially, the 2026 CX-5 will launch with a single 2.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine producing 132kW and 242Nm, paired with a six-speed automatic and standard all-wheel drive.
Q: When will the hybrid version be available in Australia? A: Mazda has confirmed a hybrid option will eventually arrive in Australia, but timing remains unconfirmed. The company is developing this hybrid system in-house rather than sourcing it from other manufacturers.
Q: How much bigger is the 2026 CX-5 compared to the current model? A: The new CX-5 is significantly larger, growing 115mm in overall length, 115mm in wheelbase, and 15mm in width. This translates to more interior space, particularly for rear passengers and cargo.
Q: Will the current CX-5 remain available after the new model launches? A: Typically, when a new generation launches, the previous model is phased out. However, dealers may have remaining current-model inventory available at attractive prices as the 2026 model approaches.