Even with a sharper design, a fresh coat of paint, and a host of new features for 2026, the Mazda CX-5 is still a bargain. Mazda’s compact SUV remains one of the most affordable options in the segment—even as an all-new generation hits the market this year. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 starts at $31,485, including the mandatory $1,495 destination fee. That’s just $940 more than the outgoing 2025 model, which rang up at $30,545. Both numbers apply to the base 2.5S trim, which carries over into 2026 mostly unchanged. The updated CX-5 is also only slightly more expensive than its swoopier sibling, the CX-50. The 2026 CX-50 starts at $31,395 with destination, a negligible $90 difference. Here’s how pricing for the full 2026 CX-5 lineup breaks down (destination included): Trim Price Mazda CX-5 2.5S $31,485 Mazda CX-5 2.5S Select $33,485 Mazda CX-5 2.5S Prefered $35,745 Mazda CX-5 2.5S Premium $38,395 Mazda CX-5 2.5S Premium Plus $40,485 For that price, you get a stylish compact SUV that’s 4.5 inches longer than last year’s model, translating to more cargo room and improved passenger space. Power still comes from the familiar 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 187 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque. Mazda says a hybrid version is on the way, but for now, the gas engine carries over unchanged. Mazda hasn’t released a full options list for the 2026 CX-5 yet, but premium paint will cost extra. Aero Gray, Polymetal Gray, Rhodium White, Soul Red Crystal, and Machine Gray all add $595 to the sticker. Mazda CX-5 Vs The Alternatives 2026 Mazda CX-5 2026 Toyota RAV4 Even with a modest price increase for 2026, the CX-5 remains competitive. Mazda’s compact crossover undercuts a few key rivals, including some newer ones. The new Toyota RAV4 starts at $33,350. The recently refreshed Volkswagen Tiguan costs $32,840. The ever-popular Honda CR-V is $32,370. Heck, even the somehow-still-alive Ford Escape costs more than the CX-5, at $31,845 to start. That said, the CX-5 still isn’t the cheapest option in the segment. That title belongs to the Kia Sportage, which starts at $30,285 for 2026. There are also a handful of older compact SUVs that still undercut the CX-5 this year: Model Base Price Kia Sportage $30,285 Dodge Hornet $30,490 Nissan Rogue $30,585 Chevrolet Equinox $30,795 Hyundai Tucson $30,800 Mazda CX-50 $31,395 Mazda CX-5 $31,485 Ford Escape $31,845 Honda CR-V $32,370 Volkswagen Tiguan $32,840 Toyota RAV4 $33,350 Motor1's Take: If the new Mazda CX-5 has the same driving dynamics and overall vibe as the current model, we can’t imagine it will be anything less than a hit—especially at that price. Here’s hoping the hybrid arrives sooner rather than later to take on the new RAV4, as well. We want your opinion! What would you like to see on Motor1.com? Take our 3 minute survey. - The Motor1.com Team
