2026 mazda cx 5 is a bigger better cx 5It gets better in every way for this new-gen Mazda CX-5. I cover the mid-trim GS or Select / Preferred and the top GT-Premium / Premium Plus in this video.Friend of the site Connie Peters looks at the 2026 Mazda CX-5.Take a look at the video or transcript below to see what she thinks. The TTAC Creators Series tells stories and amplifies creators from all corners of the car world, including culture, dealerships, collections, modified builds and more.AdvertisementAdvertisementA transcript, summarized by AI and edited by a staffer, is below.[Image: Video Thumbnail]Become a TTAC insider. Get the latest news, features, TTAC takes, and everything else that gets to the truth about cars first by subscribing to our newsletter.Summary: 2026 Mazda CX-5 First Look and ReviewThe 2026 Mazda CX-5 receives a significant redesign that makes it larger, more spacious, and more technology-focused while maintaining Mazda's premium feel and driving refinement. What's New for 2026The CX-5 is now wider and longer, increasing rear-seat and cargo space.Exterior styling has been refreshed with a new front grille, updated rear design, and a more muscular appearance.Mazda introduces a new logo, which appears on the rear and steering wheel.New paint options include Arrow Gray Metallic and a new Navy Blue Mica color. AdvertisementAdvertisementPowertrain ChangesThe previous turbocharged engine has been discontinued.All 2026 CX-5 models use a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing:187 horsepower186 lb-ft of torquePaired with a six-speed automatic transmission.All-wheel drive (AWD) is standard across the lineup in both Canada and the U.S.Mazda has announced a hybrid CX-5 for 2027. Driving ImpressionsThe reviewer describes the CX-5 as comfortable, refined, and easy to drive.While not a performance SUV, it offers adequate power for highway merging and passing.Mazda's seats and overall driving experience continue to be highlights. Interior and TechnologyAdvertisementAdvertisementThe redesigned cabin emphasizes technology and upscale materials:Top GT Premium / Premium Plus trimMassive 15.9-inch touchscreenWireless Apple CarPlayGoogle Built-In system with:Google MapsGoogle AssistantGoogle Play StoreGmail integrationFully digital instrument clusterHead-up displayWireless charging padBose premium audio360-degree camera system with "transparent vehicle" viewPanoramic sunroofHeated and ventilated front seatsHeated rear seatsHeated steering wheel Mid-level GS trimSmaller 12.3- or 12.5-inch touchscreenWireless CarPlay and dual-zone climate control remain standardLacks the panoramic roof, advanced driver-assistance features, and 360-degree camera system found on the GT Premium. AdvertisementAdvertisementPracticalityIncreased interior room benefits passengers and cargo.Features include:Flat-folding rear seatsSpare tireThree child-seat tether anchorsUSB-C charging portsPrivacy cargo coverRear heated seats on higher trims. PricingBase model starts around $31,000.Top Premium Plus trim is just over $40,000. Overall VerdictThe reviewer views the redesigned 2026 Mazda CX-5 very positively. Key strengths include:More interior spacePremium cabin qualityLarge, modern infotainment screensStandard AWDStrong value for the priceThe biggest drawback is the loss of the turbocharged engine, though the upcoming hybrid model may address that concern for many buyers. The reviewer believes the CX-5 remains a compelling competitor to the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 in the highly competitive compact SUV segment.