2026 Mazda CX-5 pricing and specs confirmed

Mazda has revealed pricing and specifications for its next-generation CX-5, with modest price increases across the range offset by a significant boost in technology, equipment and overall size.

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 range will kick off from $39,990 plus on-road costs, rising to $54,990 for the flagship Akera, representing relatively minor increases over the outgoing model despite a comprehensive update.

Rather than introducing a new powertrain, Mazda has retained its familiar 2.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, now producing 132kW/242Nm, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.

The engine has been detuned compared to the outgoing model, reflecting an emissions-focused recalibration as Mazda works to meet tightening global and Australian regulations.

Fuel efficiency improves slightly to 7.4L/100km (down from 7.5L/100km), while the range has been rationalised, with the turbo-petrol option no longer available.

All variants are also now all-wheel drive (AWD), marking a shift away from the previous front-wheel drive (FWD) entry point, which Mazda says better aligns the CX-5 with Australian buyer preferences.

Those decisions reinforce the CX-5’s current positioning, even as key rivals such as the Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage offer hybrid options across much of their range.

The all-new RAV4 starts at $45,990 (plus ORCs), around $6000 more than the CX-5, and comes standard with a hybrid powertrain but requires premium fuel, unlike the Mazda.

The new CX-5 makes its biggest gain in technology and equipment.

The entry-level Pure now features a 12.9-inch infotainment screen (up from 10.25 inches) and a 10.25-inch digital instrument display (up from 7.0 inches), alongside dual-zone climate control, adaptive cruise control, and a full suite of safety systems, including blind spot monitoring.

A new Evolve grade joins the line-up and, for an additional $3000, adds features such as heated front seats, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, rear air vents and keyless entry.

The mid-spec Touring model introduces larger 19.0-inch wheels, a heated steering wheel, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, a power-adjustable tailgate, heated rear outboard seats and a head-up display, priced from $47,490.

Externally, the Touring also gains roof rails and a heated windscreen.

Above that, the GT SP is priced from $51,990, featuring a 12-speaker Bose audio system, ambient lighting, a 360-degree camera, black leather interior, and glossy black exterior styling elements.

At the top of the range, the Akera comes in at $54,990 and adds the largest 15.6-inch central touchscreen, a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, and additional personalisation within the entry and seat setup.

Mazda is also offering a seven-colour palette, including a new navy-blue paint.

White or tan two-tone leather is an additional $1,000 option available for the GT SP and Akera models.

Beyond equipment, Mazda says the new model also delivers “significantly more practical SUV dimensions”, with tangible gains in interior space and everyday usability for family buyers.

The biggest improvements are in the rear, with legroom increasing by 64mm and boot capacity expanding by 28 litres to 466L.

Deliveries of the new Mazda CX-5 are planned to commence in June of this year.

The update builds on one of Mazda’s most important nameplates globally, with more than five million CX-5s sold worldwide, including over 325,000 in Australia alone.

Mazda is confident that it has struck the right formula with the latest update.

Still, it is keeping expectations measured, targeting around 25,000 sales – a conservative increase of roughly 2,000 units over its 2025 result.

While this iteration focuses on design, technology and packaging, a hybrid version remains part of the longer-term plan, expected to follow the model’s US launch around 2027 as Mazda balances tightening emissions regulations with evolving buyer demand.

How much does the 2026 Mazda CX-5 cost?
Pure AWD – $39,990
Evolve AWD – $42,990
Touring AWD – $47,490
GT SP AWD – $51,990
Akera AWD – $54,990
* Prices exclude on-road costs

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