MAZDA EXPLAINED WHY THEY SHELVED BUTTONS AND KNOBS IN THE NEW CX-5 NOW I’M A BELIEVER?

EV Channels Review

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 undergoes a significant interior redesign, shifting towards a touchscreen-centric interface and eliminating physical buttons and knobs, including the rotary dial and volume knob. Mazda explains this change is driven by a desire to reduce driver distraction and leverage voice control via Google built-in and Gemini. However, the reviewer expresses strong reservations, arguing that physical controls offer a safer, more intuitive, and tactile interaction, especially for frequently used functions like climate control and volume adjustment. While acknowledging the ease of use and flexibility of touchscreens, particularly with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the reviewer finds the small icons and lack of physical feedback on the new CX-5's interface to be a step backward in usability and safety compared to the previous generation and key competitors like the Toyota RAV4. The reviewer also notes the removal of the turbo powertrain, though the 2.5L SkyActiv-G with AWD and a 6-speed automatic remains, with a hybrid variant planned for 2027. A final verdict is pending further testing, but the reviewer's initial impression leans towards dissatisfaction with the loss of physical controls.