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Auto Blog
a day ago
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
Will Mazda Face Buyer Backlash for the 2026 CX-5's Touchscreen Controls?
By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. The new CX-5's interior tech pivots hard Mazda's redesigned 2026 CX-5 is undoubtedly attractive, but it isn't exactly a dramatic change, the way the fifth-generation Hyundai Santa Fe was when it debuted in 2024. Yes, the 2025 CX-5 is bigger, especially between the wheels where it counts most, but its sheet metal is largely evolutionary, coupled with a fresh face and tail, slab doors like the CX-70/90, and a stronger resemblance to the rest of the brand's SUV lineup. Audi A5 replaces A4: So, what's changed? Watch More The cabin has been redone in excellent Mazda fashion, and the changes are more significant inside than outside. Materials quality and refinement both have improved, on top of what was already one of the best interiors in its class. The biggest change, however, might not be perceived as an improvement. The new infotainment touchscreen (12.9-inch standard, 15.6-inch optional) now incorporates climate and audio functions, replacing the excellent physical controls for which Mazda has been known. Will there be a sales backlash from would-be buyers of the new CX-5? Infotainment details The optional 15.6-inch center infotainment touchscreen is the biggest one ever fitted into a Mazda. The last CX-5's screen was a rather small 10.2 inches, so even the change to the standard 12.9-inch screen is a marked improvement. The new system is now Google-based rather than being a proprietary Mazda operating system, which was criticized as being overly simplistic and dated in its appearance. In addition to built-in Google Maps, the new system will utilize Google Assistant for voice commands, providing improved accuracy and a better user experience. Owners will also have access to the Google Play Store for car-friendly apps. A controversial change 2026 Mazda CX-5 — Source: Mazda Mazda owners, by and large, love the physical controls in their vehicles. My family owns two Mazda vehicles, and one of the reasons we chose our Mazda6 and CX-9 was because of their excellent switchgear. Mazda's physical controls are attractive, well-made, and easy to operate. The physical audio, infotainment, and climate controls from the 2025 CX-5 are nowhere to be seen in the 2026 CX-5. Their absence has already sparked controversy, not because on-screen controls are uncommon in the industry, but because Mazda has had a longstanding reputation for tactile, driver-focused interiors and controls. While some may view this as a necessary evolution to keep pace with tech-savvy competitors, others, especially brand loyalists, may view this as a move in the wrong direction. Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. 2025 Mazda CX-5 — Source: Mazda The 2025 CX-5's climate controls consisted of two knurled metallic knobs that flanked a digital screen. Above and below the screen were two rows of buttons. It was one of the easiest systems to use while driving, and none of the controls utilized haptic feedback. Its Commander rotary control knob between the seats made a touchscreen unnecessary since you could rotate, toggle, and press it to find and activate functions. The learning curve was easy, and you could operate the system quickly and easily. The Commander control knob is no longer available on the 2026 model, and only three physical buttons remain on the center stack for defrost, defog, and hazard lights. Instead of a central rotary knob, everything from audio settings to climate control is now managed through the center screen. It seems anti-Mazda, frankly. The potential backlash 2026 Mazda CX-5 — Source: Mazda Mazda's previous infotainment systems disabled touchscreen inputs while driving as a safety precaution, relying instead on the rotary controller and steering wheel controls. On some models, you could use a touchscreen only while phone mirroring. With the controller now removed in the 2026 model, only being able to use the touchscreen when parked could frustrate drivers who are forced to rely on voice commands or complex menus while in motion. Again, this seems at odds with Mazda's driver-centric cabins. Forums are already rife with criticisms from current Mazda owners who refuse to upgrade to the 2026 CX-5 until a refresh brings them back. We don't blame them. 2026 Mazda CX-5 — Source: Mazda Consumer studies and feedback from drivers reflect an overwhelming preference for physical controls over touchscreen controls. Touchscreens demand more attention than knobs or switches, which are typically easier to locate and use by feel. There is no muscle memory for non-tactile controls; you are forced to take your eyes off the road and onto the screen in order to find them, and there's no guarantee that you'll hit what you're aiming for. Mazda says that the new CX-5 continues the driver-centric focus by providing an enhanced voice command experience, but statistics show that only about 17 percent of American drivers use voice commands to execute vehicular functions. That number is sure to grow, but it doesn't represent the vast majority of drivers. 2026 Mazda CX-5 — Source: Mazda Mazda further justifies the shift as a way to offer better software integration, faster response times, and smarter features through Google's connected services. In doing so, the brand also aligns itself with competitors like Volvo, Honda, and GM, all of which have adopted Google-based infotainment systems in recent years. This trend could be upended by regulatory pressure, though. Case in point, beginning in 2026, Euro NCAP (the European car safety assessment program) will begin docking safety points for vehicles that fail to provide physical buttons for essential functions like climate control and hazard lights. Mazda may find itself forced to reintroduce some tactile elements just to maintain strong safety ratings in Europe and potentially North America. 2026 Mazda CX-5 — Source: Mazda Final thoughts While the 2026 CX‑5 is undoubtedly more connected and feature-rich, the tradeoff between elegant design and practical, everyday usability is already generating debate. On the upside, the interface looks clean and modern. It offers better voice control through Google Assistant, potentially allowing drivers to manage tasks hands-free. However, drivers will essentially have to learn a new system, lose tactile feedback, and take their eyes off the road more frequently. Many loyal Mazda owners who have stuck with Mazda because of its great physical controls may look elsewhere, as others, like Toyota, still have their latest models, like the 2026 RAV4, outfitted with switchgear. That said, younger, tech-forward customers may be drawn to the CX-5 for the same reasons Mazda loyalists may leave. For them, the CX‑5's digital dashboard and Google-native systems may have been a long time coming. The 2026 Mazda CX-5's interior comes as a bit of a surprise, as many automakers are shifting in the other direction by returning to physical controls. This new cabin philosophy for Mazda is unlike any of the brand's current models, and it could set the tone for the rest of the lineup. On the other hand, the fully digital experience might be short-lived for the brand with customer pushback, regulatory pressure, and safety concerns. We will have to give our assessment once we get to review the 2026 Mazda CX-5 for ourselves. About the Author Amos Kwon View Profile
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
2026 Toyota RAV4 Vs. 2026 Mazda CX-5: 5 Major Differences Between The New Compact Crossovers
2026 Toyota RAV4 Vs. 2026 Mazda CX-5: 5 Major Differences Between The New Compact Crossovers originally appeared on Autoblog. Two of the most important compact crossovers sold in the United States have now been fully revealed in the space of a month or two. It started with the sixth-generation RAV4, which was shown in May, while this week, Mazda lifted the covers off its third-generation CX-5. Although we don't know all the specifications of these models yet, the manufacturers have shared enough for us to pick out five distinct differences between them. They may compete in the same segment, but they're not for exactly the same type of buyer. View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article The Toyota RAV4 has always been a slightly more rugged alternative to the classy, polished CX-5, and that hasn't changed when assessing the designs of these all-new generations of each. Where the new RAV4 relies on squared-off lines and angular body creases, the CX-5 prefers curvier proportions inspired by Mazda's Kodo design philosophy. Toyota has perhaps made more of a leap with the new RAV4: From its wraparound lights to distinct trim levels, such as the adventure-focused Woodland, there appears to be more variety in the RAV4's visual presentation. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Inside, it's a similar story. The RAV4 has a sportier look, especially on GR Sport models with their red trim. The new CX-5 features a more serene environment, glossier surfaces, and a less cluttered look. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Both models have taken steps forward in terms of infotainment tech. In the Toyota, a 10.5-inch touchscreen is standard, making way for a 12.9-inch unit on upper trims. However, Toyota has retained many large, legible buttons for things like the driving mode and climate control temperature. Mazda's new CX-5 features an available 15.6-inch touchscreen, the largest one ever equipped to a Mazda model, and easily trumps the size of the one in the Toyota. It's not known what size the standard touchscreen will be in the CX-5. What surprises us most for a brand like Mazda that has resisted touchscreens in the past is that the new CX-5 largely does away with physical controls - below the massive touchscreen, all you'll find are three buttons: One for the hazards and two for the defrosting functions. Even the old rotary controller is gone. Based on the respective layouts, the CX-5 has a classier cabin but the RAV4's one appears easier to operate. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article To complement their new display screens, both models have taken a leap forward in terms of software. The new RAV4 debuts Toyota's new Arene software development platform, which enables both new infotainment functions and driver-assistant features. Toyota touts improvements like a better voice assistant, a convenient home button (whether operating the system natively or with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto), and updates to the driver-assist features within the Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 suite. Mazda's new infotainment system in the CX-5 gets standard Google built-in, so Google-based apps are easily integrated. The setup includes Google Gemini, a smart AI assistant, and a range of apps from the Google Play Store. View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article Under the hood, there are quite a few differences. The new RAV4 now relies on hybrid power exclusively, with the base model being a conventional hybrid system with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. It produces 226 horsepower with standard front-wheel drive and 236 hp with optional all-wheel drive. Mazda's base engine may come as a disappointment to some. It sticks with a non-hybrid 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 187 hp and 185 lb-ft of torque, so the base RAV4 should be easily quicker. The Mazda does get standard AWD, though, and a six-speed automatic. Moving up the trim structure, Toyota's weapon is a plug-in hybrid RAV4 with AWD and a stunning output of 320 hp. Besides the fact that it'll be one of the quickest Toyotas, it promises an all-electric range of 50 miles. Mazda has confirmed that it will launch a hybrid option for the CX-5 in 2027, but it's not expected to be a plug-in system. Although no technical details have been supplied, Drive reports that this new hybrid will have performance that's equal to or better than the CX-5's current turbo, which makes 256 hp. As things stand now, the RAV4 looks like a better performer, although the CX-5 has historically been more enjoyable to drive. We'll have to wait to get behind the wheel of both to see if that's still true. The RAV4 has always offered something for adventure-minded drivers, and that's still the case with the 2026 model. The new RAV4 Woodland will come with both hybrid powertrains, and although not a true off-roader, its higher ride height and all-terrain tires will make it a bit more capable over rough surfaces. This variant will also have a unique design, with a raised front-end and Rigid Industries LED lighting. Off-road trims of everyday crossovers have become popular, so this is a smart move by Toyota - Honda's popular TrailSport models and Subaru's Wilderness crossovers are other examples. Over at Mazda, no trim structure has been shared yet, but there was also no mention at all of any off-road pretensions. Mazda has left the mild off-roader stuff to the CX-50, saying it believes fully that these two compact crossovers can co-exist in the same segment. While many modern crossovers can be hard to tell apart, we appreciate that the new Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5 are not easily confused. As it did before, the Toyota digs deeper into hybridization, off-roading, and performance with its new PHEV. Mazda already sells the CX-50, so the new CX-5 is positioned as a more luxurious, high-tech, and refined vehicle. We expect its upper trims to be packed with features and impressive materials. The only question mark that remains with the Mazda is in the powertrain department - it will be at a distinct disadvantage compared to the Toyota until Mazda launches its new hybrid. The new RAV4 is scheduled to arrive first, later this year. In early 2026, it will be joined by the new CX-5. 2026 Toyota RAV4 Vs. 2026 Mazda CX-5: 5 Major Differences Between The New Compact Crossovers first appeared on Autoblog on Jul 12, 2025 This story was originally reported by Autoblog on Jul 12, 2025, where it first appeared.
Auto Blog
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
2026 Toyota RAV4 Vs. 2026 Mazda CX-5: 5 Major Differences Between The New Compact Crossovers
By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. These compact crossovers have distinct personalities Two of the most important compact crossovers sold in the United States have now been fully revealed in the space of a month or two. It started with the sixth-generation RAV4, which was shown in May, while this week, Mazda lifted the covers off its third-generation CX-5. Although we don't know all the specifications of these models yet, the manufacturers have shared enough for us to pick out five distinct differences between them. They may compete in the same segment, but they're not for exactly the same type of buyer. Previous Pause Next Unmute 0:00 / 0:10 Full screen Audi reveals sporty new A5/S5 with an emphasis on design Watch More 1. RAV4 More Rugged, CX-5 More Elegant 2026 Toyota RAV4 GR Sport 2026 Toyota RAV4 GR Sport 2026 Mazda CX-5 2026 Mazda CX-5 The Toyota RAV4 has always been a slightly more rugged alternative to the classy, polished CX-5, and that hasn't changed when assessing the designs of these all-new generations of each. Where the new RAV4 relies on squared-off lines and angular body creases, the CX-5 prefers curvier proportions inspired by Mazda's Kodo design philosophy. Toyota has perhaps made more of a leap with the new RAV4: From its wraparound lights to distinct trim levels, such as the adventure-focused Woodland, there appears to be more variety in the RAV4's visual presentation. Inside, it's a similar story. The RAV4 has a sportier look, especially on GR Sport models with their red trim. The new CX-5 features a more serene environment, glossier surfaces, and a less cluttered look. 2. Larger Touchscreen And Fewer Buttons For Mazda Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. Both models have taken steps forward in terms of infotainment tech. In the Toyota, a 10.5-inch touchscreen is standard, making way for a 12.9-inch unit on upper trims. However, Toyota has retained many large, legible buttons for things like the driving mode and climate control temperature. Mazda's new CX-5 features an available 15.6-inch touchscreen, the largest one ever equipped to a Mazda model, and easily trumps the size of the one in the Toyota. It's not known what size the standard touchscreen will be in the CX-5. What surprises us most for a brand like Mazda that has resisted touchscreens in the past is that the new CX-5 largely does away with physical controls – below the massive touchscreen, all you'll find are three buttons: One for the hazards and two for the defrosting functions. Even the old rotary controller is gone. Based on the respective layouts, the CX-5 has a classier cabin but the RAV4's one appears easier to operate. 3. New Software: Toyota's Arene Meets Google Built-In To complement their new display screens, both models have taken a leap forward in terms of software. The new RAV4 debuts Toyota's new Arene software development platform, which enables both new infotainment functions and driver-assistant features. Toyota touts improvements like a better voice assistant, a convenient home button (whether operating the system natively or with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto), and updates to the driver-assist features within the Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 suite. Mazda's new infotainment system in the CX-5 gets standard Google built-in, so Google-based apps are easily integrated. The setup includes Google Gemini, a smart AI assistant, and a range of apps from the Google Play Store. 4. CX-5 Sticks With Non-Hybrid Standard Engine Under the hood, there are quite a few differences. The new RAV4 now relies on hybrid power exclusively, with the base model being a conventional hybrid system with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. It produces 226 horsepower with standard front-wheel drive and 236 hp with optional all-wheel drive. Mazda's base engine may come as a disappointment to some. It sticks with a non-hybrid 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 187 hp and 185 lb-ft of torque, so the base RAV4 should be easily quicker. The Mazda does get standard AWD, though, and a six-speed automatic. Moving up the trim structure, Toyota's weapon is a plug-in hybrid RAV4 with AWD and a stunning output of 320 hp. Besides the fact that it'll be one of the quickest Toyotas, it promises an all-electric range of 50 miles. Source: Toyota Mazda has confirmed that it will launch a hybrid option for the CX-5 in 2027, but it's not expected to be a plug-in system. Although no technical details have been supplied, Drive reports that this new hybrid will have performance that's equal to or better than the CX-5's current turbo, which makes 256 hp. As things stand now, the RAV4 looks like a better performer, although the CX-5 has historically been more enjoyable to drive. We'll have to wait to get behind the wheel of both to see if that's still true. 5. Off-Road-Focused RAV4 Trims Source: Toyota The RAV4 has always offered something for adventure-minded drivers, and that's still the case with the 2026 model. The new RAV4 Woodland will come with both hybrid powertrains, and although not a true off-roader, its higher ride height and all-terrain tires will make it a bit more capable over rough surfaces. This variant will also have a unique design, with a raised front-end and Rigid Industries LED lighting. Off-road trims of everyday crossovers have become popular, so this is a smart move by Toyota – Honda's popular TrailSport models and Subaru's Wilderness crossovers are other examples. Over at Mazda, no trim structure has been shared yet, but there was also no mention at all of any off-road pretensions. Mazda has left the mild off-roader stuff to the CX-50, saying it believes fully that these two compact crossovers can co-exist in the same segment. Final Thoughts Source: Toyota/Mazda While many modern crossovers can be hard to tell apart, we appreciate that the new Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5 are not easily confused. As it did before, the Toyota digs deeper into hybridization, off-roading, and performance with its new PHEV. Mazda already sells the CX-50, so the new CX-5 is positioned as a more luxurious, high-tech, and refined vehicle. We expect its upper trims to be packed with features and impressive materials. The only question mark that remains with the Mazda is in the powertrain department – it will be at a distinct disadvantage compared to the Toyota until Mazda launches its new hybrid. The new RAV4 is scheduled to arrive first, later this year. In early 2026, it will be joined by the new CX-5. About the Author Karl Furlong View Profile
Forbes
4 days ago
- Automotive
- Forbes
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 Is Bigger, Better, And Finally Gets A Touchscreen
At long last, Mazda has switched to a touchscreen setup in its new CX-5 crossover. Mazda's best selling vehicle in the U.S. is the five-seat CX-5, a modest crossover that doesn't exceed $45,000 even at the top of the line. Since the first generation was introduced in 2013, Mazda has sold more than 1.6 million CX-5 units here in America. The automaker builds beautiful, reliable, stylish vehicles at an affordable price. On top of all that, Mazda created one of the most gorgeous red paint finishes on the planet: Soul Red Crystal Metallic. For the 2026 model year, the brand has debuted a new generation of the CX-5 that's a half-inch wider, 4.5 inches longer, and provides more leg room than it did before. Plus, the door openings are wider, making it easier for passengers to enter and exit, and the cargo load area is a half-inch lower lift-in height for easier loading. Also, says Stefan Meisterfeld, VP of Strategic Planning for Mazda North American Operations, customers will be able to choose from a variety of accessories to make cargo management much easier. In previous years, there was one thing that vexed many potential buyers in the market for a new car: the Commander control function for its infotainment system. In the 2026 CX-5, Mazda finally mitigates that issue with a brand-new touchscreen and Google Built-In. It's a welcome change that heralds a new era for Mazda, and one that could make the difference for growing the brand's presence in the U.S. The 2026 CX-5 is longer and wider than the previous generation. Mazda Says Safety First, Now With New Tech A few years ago, YouTuber Jill Ciminillo interviewed Mazda's Manager of Vehicle Dynamics Dave Coleman. He told her the Mazda infotainment setup, complete with its all-controlling center knob, was designed for safety. A touchscreen, he argued, requires the driver to look from the road to the touchscreen to their finger and back, which is a distraction. Making the switch to full touchscreen mode for 2026 required a major update way beyond the infotainment system itself, says Meisterfeld. 'It's important to note that we didn't just add a large center touch display,' Meisterfeld points out. 'We also followed our philosophy of hands on the wheel, eyes on the road, safety first.' While offering all this new technology, Mazda also redesigned the steering wheel to work seamlessly with the CX-5's new layout. Meisterfeld says it's intended to be very intuitive, at the same time giving the driver operational control over many different functions. On top of that, the crossover uses Google Assistant for native language recognition. As such, most of the features and functions can also be operated by voice command. In total, Mazda believes the setup in the CX-5 follows its original philosophy to put safety first. Open and airy, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 is roomier than before. Hybrid Mazda CX-5 On The Way The 2026 CX-5 retains the capable 2.5-liter engine from 2025 in both turbo and non-turbo versions. In the base model, the 2026 CX-5's powerplant will launch with 2.5-liter 187 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. Stay tuned, because in 2027 Mazda will offer a hybrid powertrain in the CX-5 with more power and improved MPG. It's won't be the first hybrid Mazda has ever had, as the CX-50 used a Toyota-sourced hybrid system, but it will be the first one Mazda builds in-house. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 will be on sale early next year.
Motor 1
5 days ago
- Automotive
- Motor 1
Mazda Explains Why Buttons Are Dying: It's What People Want
'Never change a winning team,' as the saying goes. The CX-5 has racked up precisely 4,761,329 sales since it arrived in 2012, making it Mazda's best-selling vehicle in the current lineup. A third-generation model broke cover this week, and on the outside, it's a subtle evolution of its predecessor. However, the interior is nothing short of a revolution. Judging by the comments on the debut post , you're not a fan of the minimalist dashboard: 'No knobs and buttons, No sale! Ergonomics is important to me;' 'There is no way I'm going buttonless;' 'What I don't like is the removal of the buttons and rotary dial;' 'Air conditioner, heater, defroster, and temperature controller should be operated by physical buttons... please.' And so on and so forth. 2026 Mazda CX-5 Photo by: Mazda Naturally, we decided to ask Mazda why most conventional switchgear has been removed. In contrast to those comments, going nearly button-less is apparently what people want. Tamara Mlynarczyk, manager of public affairs for Mazda North American Operations, told Motor1 that the decision to eliminate most traditional controls was based on an internal study showing customers prefer a large infotainment system: 'Based on customer feedback, we developed a new human-machine interface (HMI) that prioritizes ease of use while maintaining Mazda's safe driving philosophy. The new CX-5 changes from a commander to a touchscreen center display, which is the most suitable means to minimize the 'hands' away from the steering wheel while implementing: • Advanced voice recognition allowing the driver to operate vehicle functions like the air conditioning, audio, and navigation systems; • Human-centric steering wheel switches allowing the driver to operate the controls without placing a burden on human attention resources.' So, there you have it. The people have spoken. Apparently. Suddenly, I feel like I'm in the minority for preferring a more analog layout. Having buttons for frequently used functions will always be a hill I'm willing to die on. This marks a paradigm shift for the Zoom-Zoom company, which has typically resisted overreliance on touchscreens. Here's what Matthew Valbuena, Mazda North America's lead engineer for HMI and infotainment, said in 2019 when the Mazda3 came out: 'Doing our research, when a driver would reach towards a touchscreen interface in any vehicle, they would unintentionally apply torque to the steering wheel, and the vehicle would drift out of its lane position. And of course, with a touchscreen you have to be looking at the screen while you're for that reason we were comfortable removing the touchscreen functionality.' Mazda EZ-6 Mazda EZ-60 Photo by: Mazda Mind you, the CX-5 is not the first Mazda to move in this direction. The EZ-6 electric sedan sold in China and rebranded as the 6e for other markets also features a simplified dashboard centered around a large touchscreen. The EZ-60 electric crossover , which hasn't yet been confirmed for international markets, has an even bigger display. Both EVs trace their roots to Chinese models sold by Mazda's joint venture partner Changan, but the new CX-5 is an all-Mazda effort and a global model. These cars also bid farewell to the BMW-style rotary dial between the seats, a move BMW itself has already made. All front-wheel-drive models from Bavaria have dropped it, and the upcoming Neue Klasse vehicles with next-gen infotainment won't have it either. Less is more, I guess... It remains to be seen whether this trend will carry over to future Mazda models. Hopefully, they'll at least make an exception for the next Miata and the rotary sports car revival that's been teased for so long. A giant screen perched on the dashboard could be a dealbreaker for some. Buttons Or No Buttons? Hyundai Promised It Would Keep Buttons. This New SUV Tells a Different Story Ferrari Admits It Made a Mistake When It Deleted Real Buttons Share this Story Facebook X LinkedIn Flipboard Reddit WhatsApp E-Mail Got a tip for us? Email: tips@ Join the conversation ( )
