WHY DID MAZDA DO THIS? MY CONCERNS ABOUT THE NEW 2026 CX-5

EV Channels Review

The reviewer expresses significant concerns regarding the 2026 Mazda CX-5 redesign, feeling Mazda has changed too much of what was already working well. A major disappointment is the removal of the 2.5L turbo engine option, which the reviewer believes elevated the CX-5 into a near-luxury competitor. The absence of a hybrid option at launch, with it delayed until 2027, is also noted as a drawback. The interior redesign is heavily criticized, particularly the shift from physical buttons and a rotary dial for climate controls and infotainment to a large touchscreen. The loss of the volume knob is deemed a "deal breaker" by the reviewer, who values tactile controls for ease of use and safety while driving. While acknowledging the new CX-5 is aesthetically pleasing and larger, offering more space, the reviewer feels Mazda has sacrificed its "Jinba Ittai" (horse and rider as one) philosophy and "soul" for aesthetics and a large screen, ultimately preferring the ergonomics and practicality of competitors like the Toyota RAV4.