Leaked: 2026 Mazda CX-5 Shows Off Grown-Up Look
Despite the arrival of the newer Mazda CX-50, the CX-5 continues to be the best-selling Mazda in the United States. Last month, over 9,500 of them found new homes across the country, well over 2,000 units more than the CX-50.
A new CX-5 has been spied several times in recent months, but now we have our clearest look yet at the new compact crossover, thanks to a leaked image of what appears to be a production model. The picture was shared on the Cochespias forum.
Recent spy shots of the CX-5 were spotted by various publications, and the leaked image doesn't deviate from those. The headlights flow down more deeply alongside the grille, which actually appears smaller than it does on the current CX-5. Whereas the current CX-5 appears quite rounded in profile, this new one appears to have slightly more masculine lines, with an upright body. Black cladding around the wheel arches add another rugged touch.
The spy shot doesn't show the CX-5 from any other angle, but based on this first look, we'd say it's more or less in line with Mazda's current design language. As for whether it's a noticeable improvement over the current CX-5, well, that's up for debate, since the existing CX-5 is still one of the most stylish compact crossovers around.
Previous spy shots show lengthened taillights that mirror those on the larger CX-70 and CX-90.
While powertrains haven't been confirmed, we expect both gas and hybrid versions of the new CX-5, with outputs at least matching the CX-50. In the latter, the range is topped by a 256-horsepower turbocharged engine, while the hybrid CX-50 has a 219-hp powertrain shared with the RAV4 Hybrid. However, the new CX-5 may use an in-house-developed hybrid system.
Mazda would absolutely need to offer a hybrid CX-5 to stay competitive in this segment. The upcoming 2026 RAV4 is now a hybrid-exclusive model, while the Hyundai Tucson offers both hybrid and plug-in hybrids, too.
However, the new CX-5 is unlikely to set new standards for performance in this class. What it is expected to focus on is more spirited driving dynamics and a more premium look and feel than rivals. These are aspects that have kept the current CX-5 in contention, despite its age. We hope to see the new CX-5's full reveal before the end of the year.
Leaked: 2026 Mazda CX-5 Shows Off Grown-Up Look first appeared on Autoblog on Jun 17, 2025
This story was originally reported by Autoblog on Jun 17, 2025, where it first appeared.
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