2026 Mazda CX-5 Remains an Affordable Leader Among SUVs

• The 2026 Mazda CX-5 base price is $31,485 including destination fees.
• This model costs just $940 more than the 2025 version.
• The CX-5 is priced below competitors like the Toyota RAV4 and Volkswagen Tiguan.

The 2026 version of Mazda’s popular compact SUV introduces a refined design, new color options, and updated features, yet it remains a highly affordable choice in its class. Even with these enhancements, the CX-5 maintains its competitive pricing.

With a starting price of $31,485 including the $1,495 destination charge, the 2026 CX-5 2.5S trim is only marginally more expensive than last year’s $30,545 price tag. This base trim carries over mostly unchanged for the new model year.

The price difference between the CX-5 and its sportier counterpart, the CX-50, is minimal. The 2026 CX-50 begins at $31,395 with destination, just $90 less than the CX-5.

Here’s the price range for the 2026 Mazda CX-5 lineup (including destination fees):

• 2.5S: $31,485
• 2.5S Select: $33,485
• 2.5S Preferred: $35,745
• 2.5S Premium: $38,395
• 2.5S Premium Plus: $40,485

This compact SUV has grown by 4.5 inches compared to its predecessor, offering increased cargo capacity and more spacious seating for passengers. Under the hood, it retains the familiar 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 187 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. While a hybrid variant is planned for the future, the current model sticks with the traditional gasoline engine.

Although Mazda has yet to release the complete list of options for the 2026 CX-5, premium paint choices such as Aero Gray, Polymetal Gray, Rhodium White, Soul Red Crystal, and Machine Gray will add $595 to the price.

Comparing Mazda CX-5 with Its Rivals

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 keeps its edge by offering a lower entry price than several competitors. The new Toyota RAV4 starts at $33,350, the updated Volkswagen Tiguan is priced at $32,840, and the Honda CR-V begins at $32,370. Even the Ford Escape's starting price, $31,845, exceeds that of the CX-5.

Nevertheless, the CX-5 isn’t the absolute cheapest in the compact SUV class. The Kia Sportage holds that distinction with a base price of $30,285 for 2026. Other models priced below the CX-5 include the Dodge Hornet, Nissan Rogue, Chevrolet Equinox, and Hyundai Tucson.

Here’s a quick comparison of base prices for popular 2026 compact SUVs:

• 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

Assuming the 2026 Mazda CX-5 delivers a driving experience similar to its predecessor, it’s poised to remain a favorite among compact SUVs, especially given its attractive pricing. We eagerly anticipate the arrival of the hybrid version to better compete with rivals like the Toyota RAV4.