Why does the 2026 Mazda CX-5 have a new design but still keeps the old engine?
The new generation of Mazda CX-5 offers more spacious space, more modern technology, but still uses the familiar old 2.5L engine.
Báo Khoa học và Đời sống•14/07/2025
Mazda has just officially introduced the third generation of the CX-5, the company's best-selling crossover model for more than a decade. The 2026 CX-5 is a comprehensive upgrade, from exterior design, interior space to technology experience. However, what surprised many people was that this model continued to use the old 2.5L gasoline engine, without any hybrid or electrified versions at the time of launch. In the new generation, Mazda CX-5 has a distinctly different appearance. The Kodo design style is pushed to a new level with an extended grille, squarer and more solid lines, creating a strong, SUV-like feeling. The super-thin LED headlights, inspired by the CX-70 and CX-90 lines, and the slim rear lights at the back make the car look more premium and sharp.
Despite the design and amenities changes, the 2026 CX-5 has no changes to its powertrain. The car still uses a 2.5L 4-cylinder naturally aspirated gasoline engine, 187 horsepower, 185 lb-ft of torque, combined with a 6-speed automatic transmission and AWD all-wheel drive. Mazda's continued loyalty to the old engine makes many people wonder, especially when direct competitors such as Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4 or Nissan Rogue have been strongly shifting to the hybrid or plug-in hybrid trend. In the new generation, Mazda CX-5 has a distinctly different appearance. The Kodo design style is pushed to a new level with an extended grille, squarer and more solid lines, creating a strong, SUV-like feeling. The super-thin LED headlights, inspired by the CX-70 and CX-90 lines, and the slim rear lights at the back make the car look more premium and sharp.
The overall dimensions of the car have also increased: the length has increased by about 11 cm and the wheelbase has been extended by 7.6 cm, significantly increasing the interior space, especially the rear seats and luggage compartment. The interior space is one of the most valuable changes on the 2026 CX-5. Mazda has equipped the car with a large central screen, standard at 12.9 inches, and optionally up to 15.6 inches with integrated Google operating system. All versions support wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The dashboard behind the steering wheel has also been upgraded to a fully digital format, making the overall cockpit modern and keeping up with the digitalization trend. The physical control system is streamlined to the maximum, making the cabin neater and more seamless. Despite criticism for not changing the engine, Mazda has good reason to stay the course. The company has long pursued a pure driving philosophy, optimizing the feeling of operation rather than focusing solely on parameters. The new chassis, weight distribution, and responsive steering system are expected to help the 2026 CX-5 continue to be one of the most enjoyable mid-size SUVs in the segment.
The rear seats are a big plus with significantly more legroom and knee room than the previous generation. Mazda also widened the rear doors and lowered the luggage compartment floor to make it easier for users to load and unload. The car's interior is finished with high-quality materials, combined with a 7-color ambient lighting system to increase the aesthetics and luxury feel of the cabin. Video : Introducing the new generation Mazda CX-5 2026.
Báo Khoa học và Đời sống•14/07/2025
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