If you are in the market for a new family SUV in 2026, chances are the Mazda CX-5 has already crossed your radar. It has been Mazda's best selling model in the UK for years, and the arrival of the third generation car has given buyers plenty to think about. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about the new Mazda CX-5, from pricing and trim levels through to fuel economy, safety and how it stacks up as a genuine family SUV.
Meet the Third Generation Mazda CX-5
The Mazda CX-5 has been around since 2012, and in that time it has sold more than five million units worldwide. It is the kind of car that quietly gets on with the job, offering a comfortable ride, a well built cabin and enough space for a growing family, without shouting about it. The new model, revealed for the 2026 model year, keeps that same formula but brings a fresh look, more interior space and a raft of new technology.
The new car is bigger in every direction than the model it replaces, with a longer wheelbase that translates into noticeably more legroom in the back. The styling has evolved rather than been reinvented, with slimmer LED headlights, a bolder front grille and MAZDA lettering replacing the traditional badge on the tailgate. It is still instantly recognisable as a CX-5, which will suit existing owners who are looking to upgrade without straying too far from what they already know and like.
What Has Changed Under the Skin
The biggest shift with the new Mazda CX-5 is inside the cabin. Gone is the old rotary control dial that Mazda fans knew so well, replaced by a large touchscreen measuring either 12.9 or 15.6 inches depending on trim. For the first time in a Mazda, the CX-5 also comes with Google built in, meaning always up to date navigation and a more familiar, smartphone style way of finding your way around the system.
There is a new 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster too, along with a simplified dashboard that focuses on space and calm rather than clutter. Boot space has grown by 61 litres to a much more usable 583 litres, and the rear doors now open wider, making it easier to load a pushchair or fit a child seat without a fight.
A Closer Look at Power and Performance
Every new Mazda CX-5 is powered by the same 2.5 litre e-Skyactiv G petrol engine, paired with mild hybrid assistance and a six speed automatic gearbox. There is no manual option this time around, and no plug in hybrid or fully electric version either, at least for now. A hybrid variant is expected to join the range further down the line, but for the moment, this single petrol engine is what you get across the board.
Output sits at 141ps with 238Nm of torque, which is enough for a 0 to 62mph time of around 10.5 seconds in front wheel drive form, or 10.9 seconds if you go for the optional all wheel drive system. These are not blistering numbers, but the CX-5 has never been about outright pace. It is tuned for comfort and composure, with softer springs and revised dampers designed to smooth out the kind of lumps and bumps you find on UK roads.
Front wheel drive is standard across the range, with Mazda's i-Active all wheel drive system available as an option on the higher spec Exclusive-Line and Homura trims. Towing capacity is a useful 2000kg across the board, which is worth knowing if you regularly tow a caravan or trailer.
Mazda CX-5 Fuel Economy Explained
Fuel economy is one of the first things most buyers ask about, and it is a fair question given how competitive the family SUV class has become. Mazda quotes an official WLTP figure of 40.4mpg for the front wheel drive model, dropping slightly to 38.2mpg if you choose all wheel drive.
In real world testing, most reviewers have reported figures in a similar range, typically between 33 and 42mpg depending on the mix of roads and driving style. That is respectable for a naturally aspirated 2.5 litre engine, though it is worth noting that some rivals with smaller turbocharged units or proper hybrid systems can better it on paper. With a 56 litre fuel tank, most drivers should still see a real world range comfortably above 400 miles, which makes the CX-5 a sensible choice for anyone covering longer distances regularly.
Choosing Between the Mazda CX-5 Trim Levels
The new Mazda CX-5 trim levels are refreshingly simple to get your head around, with four options to choose from: Prime-Line, Centre-Line, Exclusive-Line and Homura.
- Prime-Line is the entry point into the range, and it is far from basic. You get 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, a full suite of driver assistance systems and two zone climate control as standard.
- Centre-Line builds on this with larger 19-inch wheels, a powered boot lid, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, wireless phone charging and roof rails, making it a strong middle ground for families who want a bit more comfort without stepping up to the priciest trims.
- Exclusive-Line adds a panoramic sunroof, the option of all wheel drive, and a generally more premium feel throughout the cabin.
- Homura sits at the top of the range, with 19-inch gloss black alloy wheels, a hands free power boot lid, ventilated front seats, genuine leather upholstery, ambient lighting and a Driver Personalisation System that uses facial recognition to automatically restore your preferred seat and mirror settings.
For most family buyers, Centre-Line or Exclusive-Line tend to offer the best balance between price and everyday equipment, though it really depends on which features matter most to your household.
Mazda CX-5 Price and What You Can Expect to Pay
Mazda CX-5 pricing starts at £31,550 for the entry level Prime-Line, rising to £34,050 for Centre-Line and £36,550 for Exclusive-Line. The range topping Homura comes in at £38,950 on the road. Choosing all wheel drive on the Exclusive-Line or Homura models adds roughly £2,000 on top of these prices.
When it comes to overall Mazda CX-5 cost, it is worth factoring in more than just the sticker price. Insurance groups, servicing intervals of 12,500 miles or 12 months, and the six year, 100,000 mile warranty Mazda now offers as standard all play a part in the total cost of ownership. That warranty in particular is a genuine selling point, since it now matches or beats several rivals in the same class and offers real peace of mind for family buyers planning to keep their car for the long haul.
Is the Mazda CX-5 a Reliable Choice
Mazda CX-5 reliability has generally been a strong point for the model over the years. The previous generation built up a solid reputation, with only one official recall recorded since its 2017 launch, related to a soot build up around some engine internals. Build quality has also tended to earn praise, with owners regularly reporting robust interiors and mechanicals that hold up well to daily family life.
As a brand, Mazda sits a little behind class leaders like Toyota and Honda in most reliability surveys, though it usually performs better than many mainstream European rivals. The new CX-5 carries over much of the previous generation's proven mechanical package, including the well tested 2.5 litre engine, which should help it maintain that same reputation for dependability. The main unknown is how the new touchscreen based infotainment system holds up over time, since this is a genuinely new element for Mazda rather than a carry over from the old car.
Safety Kit You Get as Standard
Every version of the new Mazda CX-5 comes with a five star Euro NCAP safety rating and a comprehensive list of standard driver assistance features. This includes Smart Brake Support with turn across traffic assistance, blind spot monitoring, radar cruise control with stop and go functionality, lane keeping assistance, and driver attention alert.
Higher trims add extra layers of convenience and safety, such as 360 degree camera systems and adaptive LED headlights, but even the entry level Prime-Line comes generously equipped compared with many rivals in this class, which is reassuring if safety is high on your list of priorities for a family car.
Space and Everyday Practicality
Practicality is where the new Mazda CX-5 really earns its keep as a family SUV. The longer wheelbase means noticeably more rear legroom, while wider opening rear doors make it easier to fit child seats or help older relatives in and out of the car. Boot space now stands at 583 litres, a healthy figure in this class, and the rear seats fold individually for extra flexibility when you need to carry longer or bulkier items.
The cabin itself has been designed with families in mind, with sensible storage throughout the centre console and a layout that keeps essential controls within easy reach, even if some of the physical buttons of the old car have been replaced by touchscreen menus.
Is the New Mazda CX-5 Right for Your Family
If you want a spacious, comfortable and well equipped family SUV with a strong reputation for reliability and a class leading warranty, the new Mazda CX-5 ticks a lot of boxes. It suits families who value comfort and a well built cabin over outright efficiency or the latest hybrid technology, and its generous list of standard safety kit makes it a genuinely reassuring choice for everyday family use.
If fuel economy or a plug in option is your top priority, it may be worth cross shopping against some of its hybrid rivals first, but for buyers who want a dependable, comfortable and practical SUV, the CX-5 remains a strong contender in 2026.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Mazda CX-5 a reliable car?
Generally, yes. The previous generation had a strong reliability record, and the new model carries over much of the same proven mechanical package.
How much does the new Mazda CX-5 cost?
Prices start at £31,550 for the entry level Prime-Line and rise to £40,950 for the top spec Homura with all wheel drive.
What is Mazda CX-5 fuel economy like?
Official figures are 40.4mpg for front wheel drive models and 38.2mpg for all wheel drive, with most real world figures sitting somewhere in that range.
How many trim levels does the new CX-5 have?
Four: Prime-Line, Centre-Line, Exclusive-Line and Homura, each adding extra comfort and technology as you move up the range.
Does the Mazda CX-5 come with a hybrid engine?
Not currently. It uses a mild hybrid assisted 2.5 litre petrol engine, with a fuller hybrid version expected at a later date.
Is the Mazda CX-5 a good family car?
Yes. It offers a spacious cabin, a large boot, strong safety credentials and a comfortable ride, all of which make it well suited to family life.
