The 2026 Mazda CX-5 makes no financial sense on a spreadsheet. Mazda expects you to pay $41,080 for a 3,856 pound crossover forced to rely on only 187 naturally aspirated horsepower and a six speed automatic transmission. We test whether a preloaded all wheel drive torque coupling and aggressive steering geometry are enough to justify ignoring the Honda CR-V.
We evaluate the 2026 Mazda CX-5 Premium Plus to see if its naturally aspirated 2.5-liter Skyactiv G engine and six speed automatic transmission can keep up with the modern compact crossover segment. By analyzing the 14.1 to 1 steering ratio, the new electronic brake limited slip differential, and G-Vectoring Control Plus, we determine if the chassis engineering actually compensates for the lack of a turbocharger. We also compare its driving dynamics and $41,080 MSRP directly against the Honda CR-V Hybrid and Toyota RAV4 to see who actually benefits from this 3,856 pound package.
00:00 The spreadsheet problem against the CR-V
00:42 Drivetrain Performance: Software diff and the 187 horsepower reality
04:01 Handling Dynamics: Steering precision, GVC+, and brake pedal feel
08:38 Driver Interface/Ergonomics: 15.6-inch screen and the climate control debate
12:31 Sponsor: Go Clean
13:09 Owner Intel: SOS bugs, i-STOP menus, and mourning the turbo
14:56 Verdict: The driver's crossover for the 87%
2026 Mazda CX-5 First Drive Review:
https://youtu.be/BCEDX8YLuqk
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Test vehicles are provided by the respective manufacturers for review purposes, unless otherwise noted, and all opinions are our own.
Music © 2026 Russell Soares (russellsoares.com), used with permission, all rights reserved.
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