Is Mazda's Best SUV Still a Steal in 2026? The answer might surprise you! Even with a fresh design, a new paint job, and a bunch of exciting features for the 2026 model year, the Mazda CX-5 continues to be a fantastic value. It remains one of the most affordable options in the compact SUV market, even as a brand-new generation is hitting the streets.
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 starts at $31,485, including the mandatory $1,495 destination fee. That's only $940 more than the 2025 model, which started at $30,545. Both prices apply to the base 2.5S trim, which carries over largely unchanged.
Interestingly, the updated CX-5 is only slightly more expensive than its sleeker sibling, the CX-50. The 2026 CX-50 starts at $31,395 with destination, a negligible $90 difference.
Here’s a breakdown of the 2026 CX-5 lineup pricing (including destination):
- Mazda CX-5 2.5S: $31,485
- Mazda CX-5 2.5S Select: $33,485
- Mazda CX-5 2.5S Preferred: $35,745
- Mazda CX-5 2.5S Premium: $38,395
- Mazda CX-5 2.5S Premium Plus: $40,485
For that price, you get a stylish compact SUV that’s 4.5 inches longer than the previous model year. This translates to more cargo space and improved passenger comfort. Under the hood, you'll find the familiar 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 187 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque. Mazda has announced a hybrid version is on the way, but for now, the gas engine remains unchanged.
But here's where it gets controversial... 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 price.
Mazda CX-5 vs. the Competition
Even with a slight price increase, the CX-5 remains competitive. It undercuts several key rivals, including some newer models.
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. Even the Ford Escape, somehow still around, is more expensive than the CX-5, starting at $31,845.
However, the CX-5 isn't the absolute cheapest option in the segment. That title belongs to the Kia Sportage, which starts at $30,285 for 2026. There are also a few older compact SUVs that still offer a lower entry price:
- Kia Sportage: $30,285
- Dodge Hornet: $30,490
- Nissan Rogue: $30,585
- Chevrolet Equinox: $30,795
- Hyundai Tucson: $30,800
- Mazda CX-50: $31,395
- Mazda CX-5: $31,485
- Ford Escape: $31,845
- Honda CR-V: $32,370
- Volkswagen Tiguan: $32,840
- Toyota RAV4: $33,350
And this is the part most people miss... If the new Mazda CX-5 maintains the same driving dynamics and overall feel as the current model, it's likely to be a hit, especially at that price point.
What do you think? Is the Mazda CX-5 still a good value in the compact SUV market? Are you more interested in the gas version or the upcoming hybrid? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
