How Does the 2025 Mazda CX-5 Stack Up Against Its Rivals in Size and Comfort?
Mazda’s latest CX-5 isn’t just a facelift—it’s a full-on growth spurt. The new model stretches 4.5 inches longer and sits 0.6 inches wider than before, with a wheelbase that’s grown by 3 inches. That puts it right in the thick of the compact SUV pack, rubbing shoulders with the Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, and Honda CR-V. But here’s the kicker: the extra inches aren’t just for show. Mazda listened to families and road-trippers who wanted more legroom and cargo space, and the result is a cabin that feels noticeably more accommodating—especially for backseat passengers. If you’ve ever tried to squeeze three adults in the rear of the old CX-5, you’ll appreciate the difference.
What Did Mazda Change Based on Customer Feedback?
Mazda’s approach this time around was refreshingly straightforward: ask customers what they want, then actually deliver. According to Mazda Australia’s Vinesh Bhindi, feedback from key markets—Australia included—directly shaped the new CX-5’s design. Customers wanted easier entry and exit, more rear passenger comfort, and a bigger cargo area. Mazda responded by tweaking the door openings, stretching the rear cabin, and adding 2 extra inches of cargo length. It’s a rare case of an automaker not just nodding politely at customer surveys but acting on them. The result? Pure magic for anyone who’s ever tried to load a stroller or haul camping gear in a tight trunk.
How Much More Practical Is the New CX-5 for Families and Adventurers?
Let’s talk numbers. While Mazda hasn’t dropped the full interior spec sheet yet, they’re promising more leg, knee, and headroom in the back. Cargo space gets a boost too, with an extra 61 liters (about 2.2 cubic feet) of capacity. That might not sound like a lot on paper, but in real-world terms, it’s the difference between cramming in that last suitcase or leaving it behind. For families, that’s a game-changer. And for anyone who’s ever packed for a weekend away, you know every inch counts.
What’s New Inside the Cabin—And Does It Feel Like a True Upgrade?
Step inside, and the changes are immediately obvious. Mazda has borrowed design cues from its newer SUVs—the CX-50, CX-60, CX-80, and CX-90—so the CX-5 finally feels as modern as its stablemates. The dashboard and steering wheel are all-new, but the real showstopper is the 15.6-inch infotainment screen. That’s a serious leap over the smaller displays found in most rivals, and it brings the CX-5’s tech game up to speed with the best in class. The materials and layout feel more upscale, too, which is something Mazda has quietly excelled at for years. If you’re after a compact SUV that doesn’t feel cheap inside, this one’s worth a look.
When Will the 2025 Mazda CX-5 Be Available in the U.S., and What About the Hybrid?
Mazda plans to launch the new CX-5 in the United States in early 2026. Details on pricing and exact specs are still under wraps, but there’s plenty of buzz around the upcoming hybrid variant, which is expected to follow a year later. With hybrid SUVs accounting for over 20% of compact SUV sales in the U.S. last year (according to data from the EPA), Mazda’s timing couldn’t be better. The company is clearly aiming to capture buyers who want style, space, and fuel efficiency in one package.
Why Does This Redesign Matter for Mazda—and for You?
The CX-5 has long been Mazda’s bread-and-butter SUV, but the competition has only gotten fiercer. By growing in size, modernizing the cabin, and—crucially—listening to what real drivers want, Mazda is betting big that it can keep its spot near the top of the sales charts. For buyers, this means a more practical, comfortable, and tech-savvy SUV that doesn’t sacrifice the driving dynamics Mazda is known for.
The big takeaway? The 2025 Mazda CX-5 isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.