2026 Mazda CX-5: Australian Pricing and Specs Confirmed

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Mazda has announced the pricing and specifications for the redesigned 2026 CX-5, launching in Australia mid-year. The new model aims to offer enhanced value, with increased standard features despite a modest price increase. This update is crucial for Mazda, given the CX-5’s consistent status as the brand’s top-selling vehicle for the last seven years, with over 325,000 units sold locally and over five million globally.

Value-Focused Upgrade

The 2026 CX-5 will be available in five trim levels – Pure, Evolve, Touring, GT SP, and Akera – mirroring the current lineup’s structure. Starting at $39,990 plus on-road costs, the base Pure model represents a price increase over the outgoing CX-5 G20 Maxx, but includes standard all-wheel drive and a more comprehensive feature set. The range-topping Akera will start from $54,990 plus ORCs.

Powertrain and Efficiency

For now, the CX-5 will launch with a single powertrain: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder petrol engine producing 132kW and 242Nm, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Fuel economy is rated at 7.4L/100km, with CO2 emissions of 173g/km. This places it outside current federal efficiency standards designed to reduce emissions (around 110g/km), though Mazda plans to introduce a hybrid model with a more efficient engine in 2027.

Trim Level Breakdown

The new CX-5 offers a step up in features at each trim level:

  • Pure: 17-inch alloys, LED headlights, 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, 12.9-inch infotainment with wired Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, basic parking sensors.
  • Evolve: Adds auto-dimming mirrors, heated front seats, wireless smartphone charging, and wireless CarPlay/Android Auto.
  • Touring: Includes 19-inch wheels, synthetic leather upholstery, power driver’s seat with memory, heated steering wheel, and remote tailgate.
  • GT SP: Features adaptive headlights, Bose audio, ambient lighting, and black leather upholstery.
  • Akera: The top trim adds ventilated front seats, a 15.6-inch touchscreen, panoramic sunroof, and paddle shifters.

Safety and Connectivity

All 2026 CX-5 models come standard with adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and Mazda Connected Services. While Australians will miss out on Google Built-in features available in other markets, the connected services include vehicle status, stolen vehicle assistance, remote lock/unlock, emergency SOS, and geofencing capabilities.

Colors and Pricing

The 2026 CX-5 will be available in seven exterior colors, including a new Navy Blue Mica. Interior options include black and white Maztex (Touring) and tan leather (Akera), both at an additional $1000.

Mazda says each trim level offers thousands in extra value compared to the outgoing model.

The new CX-5 represents a significant update for one of Mazda’s most important vehicles, balancing price increases with improved features and connectivity. The shift toward standard all-wheel drive and enhanced tech reflects a broader trend in the Australian market toward more well-equipped base models.