2026 Mazda CX-5 range revealed for NZ

Mazda New Zealand have revealed the full next-generation CX-5 range ahead of its arrival later this year.

For 2026, the Mazda CX-5 lineup has been simplified at the entry- to mid-grade level and there’s a new nameplate added to the mix. The engine and drivetrain range has also been slimed down, with only one engine option available and front-wheel models dropped in favour of all-wheel drive range-wide.

Visually, the new CX-5 ushers in a new generation of Mazda’s Kodo design language for the mid-size SUV, bringing it inline with the larger CX-80 and CX-90. In the cabin, the rear row passengers benefit from a 115mm wheelbase extension over the current model, offering a more spacious interior.

Read our NZ Exclusive first drive report of the CX-5

All new CX-5 model grades will be powered by an updated version of Mazda’s 2.5-litre four-cylinder Skyactiv-G engine. Thanks to EU regulations, the engine will produce slightly less output then the current version fitted to GSX and Limited AWD models. 

The new 2.5-litre engines make 132kW and 242Nm, down 8kW and 10Nm, but the new motor will be more economical and produce less CO2. Mazda have updated the unit to comply with the current EURO 6e standards and updated the internals with a new balancer shaft to reduce vibrations. All models will be fitted with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

This means there’s no return of the current flagship Takami’s 2.5-litre turbocharged engine as it would need a serious overhaul to comply with EURO emission standards.

The entry-level GLX has been renamed the CX-5 Touring and will come standard with cloth seats that are heated for front row passengers, privacy glass for rear row passengers, 17-inch wheels, LED headlights, a 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment display, eight-speaker sound system and wireless phone charger. 

The CX-5 SP is the successor to the popular GSX and we expect it to be the volume seller for Mazda again. You’ll be able to spot it with black 19-inch wheels and gloss black roof rails. In the cabin the SP adds leatherette seats with electric seat adjustment for the driver, a colour head-up display, heated steering wheel and windscreen, and an electric tailgate.

The CX-5 Homura is a new nameplate for New Zealand. It will feature even more black gloss trim on the front bumper and wheel archers, black metallic finish wheels and a large panoramic sunroof, a first for any CX-5. The cabin gains a full leather interior with full electric adjustability for the front row, heated seats for outer rear row passengers and a 12-speaker Bose sound system. There’s also a new 360-degree view camera with see-through functions that will work even when the mirrors are folded.

The headline act in the CX-5 range remains the Takami, which will be the only model fitted with the largest 15.6-inch touchscreen display, steering wheel paddle shifters and a full tan leather interior. The driver will be able to adjust their tanned seat with Mazda’s Driver Personalisation System that automatically adjusts the seat and mirrors for comfort and control. Front row passengers gain ventilated seats, too, and the tailgate adds hand-free control.

The first third-generation CX-5s will land in New Zealand in Spring of 2026 and we expect pricing and final specification to be announced in May.

Read our NZ Exclusive first drive report of the CX-5