Uploaded May 2026 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
We bought a 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Preferred to see whether Mazda’s redesigned compact SUV is still the fun-to-drive standout it used to be. The new CX-5 adds more rear-seat room, better everyday usability, standard all-wheel drive, and updated tech. Disappointingly, we found cost-cutting trade-offs: a less premium-feeling interior, softer handling, and a familiar powertrain that may feel dated in a crowded compact SUV class.
Join CR at CR.org/joinviaYT to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization.
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Test Results: 2026 Mazda CX-5
consumerreports.org/cars/mazda/cx-5/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars?
consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Which Brands Make the Best Cars?
consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles-a6159221985/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Popular Small SUVs to Avoid and What to Buy Instead
consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/popular-small-suvs-to-avoid-and-what-to-buy-instead-a1273704153/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
We bought a 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Preferred to see whether Mazda’s redesigned compact SUV is still the fun-to-drive standout it used to be. The new CX-5 adds more rear-seat room, better everyday usability, standard all-wheel drive, and updated tech. Disappointingly, we found cost-cutting trade-offs: a less premium-feeling interior, softer handling, and a familiar powertrain that may feel dated in a crowded compact SUV class.
Join CR at CR.org/joinviaYT to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization.
_________________________________
Test Results: 2026 Mazda CX-5
consumerreports.org/cars/mazda/cx-5/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars?
consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Which Brands Make the Best Cars?
consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles-a6159221985/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Popular Small SUVs to Avoid and What to Buy Instead
consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/popular-small-suvs-to-avoid-and-what-to-buy-instead-a1273704153/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
