Mazda’s best-selling SUV is gearing up for a major transformation, and it seems the company isn’t keeping it under wraps. A leaked image, believed to be of the new Mazda CX-5, has revealed the vehicle’s entire look ahead of its official debut.
The new Mazda CX-5 has been spotted in the wild.
Mazda CX-5 2026 spotted during testing.
The image appears credible, especially as the car in the picture closely resembles the camouflaged prototypes previously spotted during road tests. It also bears a resemblance to the Mazda Arata Concept unveiled in China last year and the new EZ-60 mid-size SUV.
The overall proportions and window design remain familiar, reminiscent of the current Mazda CX-5. However, the body panels have been entirely redesigned.
The first notable feature is the curved headlights that sweep into the grille, reminiscent of the style seen on the discontinued Mercedes-Benz EQC. The grille retains its distinctive shape but is updated with a new pattern and thinner chrome accents.
The front bumper is more sharply designed and lacks the fake vents on the sides. Alongside is a noticeably larger central air intake, giving the front end a more robust appearance.
Surrounding the wheel arches are unpainted plastic cladding, adding to the vehicle’s rugged aesthetic. On higher-end trims, this detail may be painted to match the body color.
Unfortunately, the leaked images do not reveal the rear design of the new Mazda CX-5. However, previous test vehicle sightings suggest it will feature thinner LED taillights, reminiscent of BMW’s concept designs, and dual exhaust tips.
A glimpse of the 2026 Mazda CX-5 from the rear.
The overall design of the CX-5 doesn’t mimic Mazda’s larger SUVs, such as the CX-60, CX-70, CX-80, or CX-90. Simultaneously, it doesn’t intrude on the territory of the similarly sized CX-50, allowing the CX-5 to retain its unique character while offering a more modern appeal.
The interior of the new CX-5 is likely to be enhanced with materials and technology borrowed from Mazda’s higher-end models. Users can expect improved quality, a larger infotainment screen, and design cues reminiscent of the Mazda CX-90 inside this vehicle.
The 2026 Mazda CX-5’s interior reveals a larger infotainment screen.
The total size of Mazda’s C-segment SUV may increase slightly, making the new CX-5 a more practical choice for families.
Mazda has confirmed that the new CX-5 will offer a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant, developed entirely in-house. This version will introduce the new SkyActiv-Z gasoline engine, promising improved performance and fuel efficiency. However, as the new engine won’t be available until late 2027, the initial hybrid model will use the current powertrain before transitioning to the SkyActiv-Z.
With the current-generation CX-5 having debuted in late 2016, a new generation is long overdue. The new model is expected to make its global debut in the coming weeks.
Mazda CX-5’s long-time rival, the Toyota RAV4, has also recently entered a new generation and exclusively uses a hybrid powertrain. Two other competitors, the Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester, also offer hybrid options. In a segment where fuel efficiency and technology are increasingly crucial, the new Mazda CX-5 will need more than just good looks to make its mark.
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