Mazda’s Best SUV Is Still A Bargain For 2026

Even with a sharper design, a fresh coat of paint, and a host of new features for 2026, the Mazda CX-5 is still a bargain. Mazda’s compact SUV remains one of the most affordable options in the segment—even as an all-new generation hits the market this year.

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 starts at $31,485, including the mandatory $1,495 destination fee. That’s just $940 more than the outgoing 2025 model, which rang up at $30,545. Both numbers apply to the base 2.5S trim, which carries over into 2026 mostly unchanged.

The updated CX-5 is also only slightly more expensive than its swoopier sibling, the CX-50. The 2026 CX-50 starts at $31,395 with destination, a negligible $90 difference.

Here’s how pricing for the full 2026 CX-5 lineup breaks down (destination included):

For that price, you get a stylish compact SUV that’s 4.5 inches longer than last year’s model, translating to more cargo room and improved passenger space. Power still comes from the familiar 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 187 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque. Mazda says a hybrid version is on the way, but for now, the gas engine carries over unchanged.

Mazda hasn’t released a full options list for the 2026 CX-5 yet, but premium paint will cost extra. Aero Gray, Polymetal Gray, Rhodium White, Soul Red Crystal, and Machine Gray all add $595 to the sticker.

Mazda CX-5 Vs The Alternatives

Photo by: Mazda

Photo by: Toyota

Even with a modest price increase for 2026, the CX-5 remains competitive. Mazda’s compact crossover undercuts a few key rivals, including some newer ones.

The new Toyota RAV4 starts at $33,350. The recently refreshed Volkswagen Tiguan costs $32,840. The ever-popular Honda CR-V is $32,370. Heck, even the somehow-still-alive Ford Escape costs more than the CX-5, at $31,845 to start.

That said, the CX-5 still isn’t the cheapest option in the segment. That title belongs to the Kia Sportage, which starts at $30,285 for 2026. There are also a handful of older compact SUVs that still undercut the CX-5 this year:

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Motor1’s Take: If the new Mazda CX-5 has the same driving dynamics and overall vibe as the current model, we can’t imagine it will be anything less than a hit—especially at that price. Here’s hoping the hybrid arrives sooner rather than later to take on the new RAV4, as well.

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