Compare the 2.5 S, Select, Preferred, Premium, and Premium Plus by price, comfort, materials, technology, safety, and everyday ownership value.
The redesigned 2026 Mazda CX-5 organizes its five-trim lineup around a common mechanical foundation. Every trim uses a 187-horsepower Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, a six-speed automatic transmission, and standard i-Activ AWD, so choosing a trim is less about powertrain differences and more about how much convenience, comfort, material quality, technology, cargo access, and driver-assistance support you want around that shared platform.
This guide explains what changed for 2026, what every CX-5 includes, how pricing and trim roles progress, and where the lineup separates in exterior design, seating comfort, cabin materials, infotainment, audio, visibility, and safety technology. It also compares the five trims by buyer fit, highlights the most meaningful step-up features, and shows where it makes sense to stop rather than continue moving higher.
For Dublin and Tri-Valley shoppers, those differences can matter during I-580 and I-680 commuting, school and shopping routines, passenger use, tighter parking situations, cargo loading, and weekend drives across the East Bay. Along with the main comparison tables and trim-by-trim analysis, you will find buyer-fit guidance, an expert perspective, local shopping resources, and an interactive Trim Finder Quiz designed to narrow the lineup around the features you expect to use most often.
Quick Answers2026 Mazda CX-5 trim levels▼
What are the 2026 Mazda CX-5 trims in order?
The trim order is 2.5 S, 2.5 S Select, 2.5 S Preferred, 2.5 S Premium, and 2.5 S Premium Plus.
Do all 2026 Mazda CX-5 trims have AWD?
Yes. Mazda equips all five 2026 CX-5 trims with standard i-Activ AWD and Normal, Sport, and Off-road Mi-Drive modes.
Which 2026 Mazda CX-5 trim is the best value?
Preferred is a strong comfort-and-value stopping point for many shoppers. Select remains the better fit when everyday convenience matters more than heated seating, driver memory, a power liftgate, and an Active Driving Display.
Which CX-5 trim does Car and Driver recommend?
Car and Driver recommends the 2.5 S Preferred as the best value because it adds several frequent-use comfort and convenience upgrades without requiring the move to Premium or Premium Plus.
Which 2026 Mazda CX-5 trims have leather?
Premium and Premium Plus have leather seating. Select and Preferred use leatherette with embossed microsuede inserts, while the base 2.5 S uses cloth.
Which CX-5 trim has the 15.6-inch touchscreen?
The 2.5 S Premium Plus has the 15.6-inch center touchscreen. The other four trims use a 12.9-inch center touchscreen.
What is the main difference between Select and Preferred?
Select improves connectivity, cabin materials, rear-passenger airflow, mirrors, and keyless convenience. Preferred adds heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a power driver’s seat with memory, a power liftgate, and an Active Driving Display.
2026 Mazda CX-5 Trim Comparison & Lineup Essentials
One AWD powertrain, five clearly defined equipment levels
Because every 2026 CX-5 shares the same engine, six-speed automatic transmission, standard i-Activ AWD system, and core safety foundation, the comparison below focuses on where the trims meaningfully separate: daily convenience, driver comfort, cabin materials, technology, visibility, and price. Review the redesign, the equipment every trim shares, pricing and trim roles, and the exterior, comfort, technology, and safety differences that shape the five-trim lineup.
Select a Topic or Use Previous/Next
Comparison Topic 1 of 7
What’s New for the 2026 Mazda CX-5?
A redesign focused on space, access, technology, and a simpler five-trim structure
2026 Mazda CX-5 Redesign Highlights Highlighted updates only — not a complete list of all design, engineering, technology, equipment, or availability changes.
Update Area
What Changed
Why It Matters
Exterior & Footprint
• Bolder Kodo design
• Larger overall footprint
• Wheelbase increased by approximately 4.5 inches
The longer wheelbase supports a roomier cabin and a more settled platform while preserving the CX-5’s two-row compact-SUV role.
Passenger Access
• Wider doors
• Expanded rear seating
• More rear legroom and knee clearance
Passengers, child seats, bags, and everyday loading become easier to manage during family routines and shared trips.
Cargo Use
• Reworked cargo area
• 33.7 cu ft with the rear seat upright
• 66.5 cu ft with the second row folded
The redesigned space better supports groceries, luggage, sports equipment, strollers, and weekend gear without requiring a larger SUV.
Cabin Technology
• Standard 12.9-inch center touchscreen
• Available 15.6-inch touchscreen
• Google built-in capability
• 10.25-inch LCD meter display
The new cabin makes screen size, connectivity, and information delivery more important parts of the trim decision.
Safety Technology
• Expanded i-Activsense foundation
• More low-speed assistance
• Additional flagship systems on Premium Plus
Every trim begins with a broad driver-support package, while Premium Plus becomes the choice for maximum visibility and assistance depth.
Lineup Structure
• Five trims
• Standard AWD throughout
• No turbo trim in the published 2026 lineup
The decision becomes easier because all trims share the same powertrain and differ mainly in equipment, comfort, and technology.
Redesign Takeaway
Wider access, additional rear-seat room, more cargo flexibility, and larger displays make the redesigned CX-5 easier to use as a household vehicle. The simplified trim structure then lets shoppers decide how much comfort and technology to add without sorting through different engines or drivetrains.
Comparison Topic 2 of 7
Shared 2026 Mazda CX-5 Foundation
The powertrain, efficiency, utility, technology, and safety equipment every trim starts with
Standard Foundation Across All Five Trims Highlighted features only — not a complete list of all equipment, options, packages, accessories, services, or availability details.
Category
Shared Equipment or Specification
Engine
• Skyactiv-G 2.5L four-cylinder
• 187 hp at 6,000 rpm
• 186 lb-ft at 4,000 rpm
• Regular unleaded fuel
Transmission & AWD
• Skyactiv-Drive six-speed automatic
• Manual-shift mode
• Standard i-Activ AWD
• Normal, Sport, and Off-road modes
EPA MPG*
EPA-estimated 24 city / 30 highway / 26 combined MPG
Passenger Volume
• Approximately 106.5 cu ft without the panoramic roof
• Approximately 104.5 cu ft with the panoramic roof
Cargo & Seating Flexibility
• Five-passenger seating
• 40/20/40 split reclining rear seatback
• 33.7 cu ft behind the rear seat
• 66.5 cu ft with the second row folded
Capability
• 1,500-lb towing capacity when properly equipped
• 165-lb maximum roof-rail load capacity when properly equipped with applicable roof rails
Core Cabin Technology
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• 10.25-inch LCD meter display
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
• Google built-in capability
• Mazda Connect services
Safety Foundation
• Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Speed Limit Assist
• Blind Spot Monitoring
• Lane-departure and lane-keeping support
• Driver Attention Alert
• Front and rear parking sensors
• Rear cross-traffic and braking support
Shared-Foundation Takeaway
A lower trim does not mean giving up AWD, core safety technology, the redesigned cabin layout, or the CX-5’s passenger-and-cargo flexibility. Higher trims primarily improve how comfortable, convenient, refined, and technology-rich that shared vehicle feels.
Comparison Topic 3 of 7
Pricing & Trim Roles
A concise view of price, lineup purpose, and the defining upgrade at each step
2026 Mazda CX-5 Price & Lineup Overview Highlighted features only — not a complete list of all equipment, options, packages, accessories, services, pricing, or availability details.
Decision Point
2.5 S
2.5 S Select
2.5 S Preferred
2.5 S Premium
2.5 S Premium Plus
Starting MSRP*
$29,990
$31,990
$34,250
$36,900
$38,990
Core Role
Essential AWD foundation
Everyday convenience and cabin-value step
Comfort-and-value center
Upscale materials and cabin refinement
Technology and driver-assistance flagship
Signature Upgrade
The redesigned CX-5 essentials at the lowest starting MSRP
Each price step has a distinct purpose: Select reduces daily friction, Preferred adds frequent-use driver comfort, Premium changes the cabin’s material and passenger experience, and Premium Plus concentrates its value in display size, visibility, cargo convenience, and advanced assistance.
Comparison Topic 4 of 7
Exterior, Wheels & Design
Wheel size, mirror functions, roof equipment, lighting, and visual character
Exterior Feature Progression Highlighted features only — not a complete list of exterior equipment, paint choices, accessories, or availability details.
Category
2.5 S
Select
Preferred
Premium
Premium Plus
Wheels
17-inch Gray Metallic alloys
19-inch Black Metallic with machining finish
19-inch Black Metallic alloys
Privacy Glass
—
Standard rear privacy glass
Side Mirrors
Manual folding
• Automatic power folding
• Heated
• Automatic power folding
• Heated
• Driver-side memory
Roof Rails
—
Black roof rails
Wiper De-Icer
—
Standard
Signature Lighting
—
Front and rear signature illumination
Piano-Black Lower Trim
—
Lower bumpers, rocker molding, and wheel arches
Adaptive Front Lighting
—
Adaptive Front-Lighting System
Exterior Takeaway
Select provides the first functional exterior upgrades through privacy glass and heated power-folding mirrors. Preferred introduces the most noticeable wheel and utility change. Premium and Premium Plus give the CX-5 its most upscale exterior treatment, while Premium Plus alone adds adaptive front lighting.
Comparison Topic 5 of 7
Seating, Comfort & Cabin Materials
The difference between convenience, frequent-use comfort, and premium refinement
Seating & Comfort Feature Progression Highlighted features only — not a complete list of materials, adjustments, heating, ventilation, lighting, or availability details.
Category
2.5 S
Select
Preferred
Premium
Premium Plus
Seat Material
Cloth
Leatherette with embossed microsuede inserts
Leather
Driver’s Seat
8-way manual adjustment
10-way power adjustment
Power lumbar support
Two-position memory
Passenger Seat
6-way manual adjustment
6-way power adjustment
Heated Front Seats
—
Standard
Ventilated Front Seats
—
Standard
Heated Rear Seats
—
Standard
Heated Steering Wheel
—
Standard
Rear Air Vents
—
Standard
Panoramic Roof
—
Standard
Comfort Takeaway
Select improves how the cabin looks and functions, but Preferred is the first trim that changes the driver’s physical experience regularly. Premium is the larger refinement step because it improves front-seat and rear-passenger comfort while changing the materials and atmosphere of the cabin.
Comparison Topic 6 of 7
Technology & Infotainment
Screen size, wireless connectivity, audio, charging, and driver information
Technology & Infotainment Progression Highlighted features only — not a complete list. Connected services, trials, subscriptions, devices, and availability may vary.
Category
2.5 S
Select
Preferred
Premium
Premium Plus
Center Display
12.9-inch center touchscreen
15.6-inch center touchscreen
Meter Display
10.25-inch LCD meter display
Smartphone Integration
Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Wireless Charging
—
Standard
Active Driving Display
—
Full-color windshield display
Audio
8 speakers
Bose 12-speaker audio and SiriusXM 360L
Rear USB-C Ports
—
Two rear USB-C ports
Personalization System
—
Standard
Technology Takeaway
Select is the most important connectivity upgrade because it removes the cable from routine smartphone use and adds wireless charging. Preferred improves information delivery through the Active Driving Display. Premium upgrades the shared listening and charging experience, while Premium Plus is the only trim that materially changes the center-screen format.
Comparison Topic 7 of 7
Safety & Driver Assistance
A broad shared foundation with a concentrated Premium Plus upgrade
Driver-Support Feature Progression Highlighted features only — not a complete list. Driver-assistance systems have limitations and do not replace safe, attentive driving.
Feature
2.5 S
Select
Preferred
Premium
Premium Plus
Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Speed Limit Assist
Standard
Blind Spot Monitoring and Vehicle Exit Warning
Standard
Lane Departure Warning, Lane-Keep Assist, and Emergency Lane Keeping
Standard
Front and Rear Parking Sensors
Standard
Rear Smart Brake Support with Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Pedestrian Detection
Standard
360 View Monitor
—
Standard
Driver Monitoring
—
Standard
Cruising & Traffic Support with Lane Change Assist and Unresponsive Driver Support
—
Standard
Front Cross Traffic Alert and Braking
—
Standard
Safety Takeaway
The base safety package is already extensive, which prevents the lower trims from feeling stripped of essential driver support. Premium Plus is easier to justify when 360-degree parking visibility, front cross-traffic support, driver monitoring, and expanded traffic assistance would be used frequently.
1 of 7
Still Deciding Which CX-5 Trim Fits Best?
Now that you have reviewed the main trim comparison, use our interactive CX-5 Trim Finder to narrow the lineup by budget, daily convenience, driver comfort, cabin refinement, technology, cargo access, parking visibility, and the features you expect to use most often.
Which 2026 Mazda CX-5 Trim Matches Your Priorities?
Prefer a quick answer instead of taking the full Trim Finder Quiz?
Use these buyer profiles to identify the CX-5 trim that best matches your budget, comfort expectations, passenger needs, and technology priorities.
CX-5 2.5 S
The Essentials-First Choice
Best Fit: Budget-focused shoppers who want the redesigned CX-5, standard AWD, core safety technology, and full passenger-and-cargo utility without paying for added cabin convenience.
Why stop here: The upper trims do not change the engine, transmission, AWD system, or basic capability. Move to Select only when wireless phone use, rear vents, upgraded seating surfaces, and easier entry or mirror operation would improve regular use.
CX-5 2.5 S Select
The Daily Convenience Choice
Best Fit: Daily drivers and shared households that want easier phone connection, better rear-passenger airflow, upgraded cabin materials, and more convenient entry and mirror functions.
Why stop here: Select resolves several everyday convenience gaps while remaining below the larger comfort step. Move to Preferred when heated touchpoints, power seat adjustment, driver memory, a power liftgate, and an Active Driving Display would be used frequently.
CX-5 2.5 S Preferred
The Frequent-Use Comfort Choice
Best Fit: Commuters, multi-driver households, and frequent cargo users who will regularly benefit from heated comfort, seat memory, easier loading, and driver information projected closer to the road.
Why stop here: Preferred captures the lineup’s most practical driver-comfort and cargo upgrades. Move to Premium when leather, ventilation, rear-seat heat, Bose audio, ambient lighting, and the panoramic roof matter enough to change the ownership experience.
CX-5 2.5 S Premium
The Cabin Refinement Choice
Best Fit: Shoppers who care about how the CX-5 feels for both rows and place a high value on leather, cooling comfort, rear-seat heat, premium audio, added lighting, and a more open cabin atmosphere.
Why stop here: Premium delivers the major material, passenger-comfort, and audio upgrades. Move to Premium Plus only when the larger touchscreen, hands-free cargo access, 360-degree visibility, adaptive lighting, and expanded assistance systems would solve regular needs.
CX-5 2.5 S Premium Plus
The Full-Technology Choice
Best Fit: Drivers who want the CX-5’s largest display, most complete parking-visibility package, hands-free cargo access, adaptive lighting, and additional traffic and driver-monitoring support.
Why choose it: Premium Plus is justified by technology unavailable on the trims below it, not by a further change in leather, ventilation, audio, or panoramic-roof refinement. It makes the most sense when those exclusive visibility, display, and assistance systems will be used often.
Preferred Is the Expert-Backed CX‑5 Starting Point
Car and Driver recommends the 2026 CX‑5 Preferred because it adds the upgrades most drivers use every day: heated seats, heated steering wheel, power liftgate, larger wheels, and the Active Driving Display. It builds on the lower trims’ essentials without pushing into luxury pricing.
That outside perspective aligns with typical buyer logic. Select is still the value-focused step for shoppers who mainly want wireless tech and cabin improvements. Premium suits drivers who prioritize materials and ventilation, while Premium Plus is the choice for shoppers who want the full technology suite and maximum visibility.
2026 Mazda CX-5 Trim-by-Trim Breakdown
Choose a trim to review its highlighted equipment, role, buyer fit, and the point where moving higher becomes optional rather than necessary.
Select a Trim or Use Previous/Next
Trim 1 of 5
2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S
Essential standard-AWD foundation
2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Highlights
Highlighted features only — not a complete list of all equipment, options, packages, accessories, services, or availability details.
Starting MSRP*
$29,990
Core Role
The most accessible route into the redesigned CX-5 with the full shared AWD, safety, technology, passenger, and cargo foundation.
• Cloth seating
• Manual front seats
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• 12.9-inch center touchscreen
• 10.25-inch LCD meter display
• 8-speaker audio
• Front USB-C ports
Driver Support
• Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Speed Limit Assist
• Blind Spot Monitoring
• Lane-departure and lane-keeping support
• Front and rear parking sensors
• Rear cross-traffic and braking support
Best Fit
Drivers who value standard AWD, useful technology, core driver support, and the redesigned cabin more than convenience or comfort upgrades.
Real-World Analysis
The redesigned CX-5 without the cost of upper-trim comfort equipment
The 2.5 S is not a stripped mechanical version of the CX-5. It has the same engine, AWD system, drive modes, efficiency estimate, cargo layout, and broad safety foundation as the four trims above it. Its main tradeoff is simplicity inside the cabin: cloth upholstery, manual seat adjustment, wired smartphone integration, and a manual liftgate keep the focus on the vehicle itself rather than extra convenience.
It fits shoppers whose weekly routine is built around commuting, errands, school trips, and occasional weekend travel without a strong need for heated seating or premium materials. The 12.9-inch display and digital meter also keep the base model from feeling outdated.
The reason to move up is Select’s daily polish, especially wireless connectivity, rear vents, Smart Keyless entry, heated power-folding mirrors, and upgraded seating surfaces. Drivers who do not care about those items can stop at the 2.5 S confidently. It is the strongest choice when budget discipline matters more than cabin convenience.
Trim 2 of 5
2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select
Everyday convenience and cabin-value step
2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select Highlights
Highlighted features only — not a complete list of all equipment, options, packages, accessories, services, or availability details.
• Wireless Apple CarPlay
• Wireless Android Auto
• Wireless phone charger
Daily Use Impact
Reduces friction around phone connection, key access, passenger airflow, mirror use, and routine cabin presentation.
Best Fit
Shoppers who want the redesigned CX-5 to feel more complete every day but do not need heated seats, a power driver’s seat, or a power liftgate.
Real-World Analysis
The first trim that feels fully rounded for shared daily use
Select strengthens the parts of the CX-5 that owners interact with before the drive even begins. Smart Keyless entry, wireless smartphone integration, a wireless charger, power-folding heated mirrors, and upgraded seating surfaces make the cabin easier to enter, connect, and share. Rear vents also address one of the base model’s most practical passenger-comfort gaps.
This trim suits drivers who want the cabin to feel finished without paying for the larger comfort jump above it. It is especially useful when rear passengers ride regularly, when phones are used for navigation and media on most trips, or when automatic mirror folding helps in tighter parking areas. The benefit is convenience rather than luxury.
Preferred becomes more compelling when the driver wants heated touchpoints, memory settings, power adjustment, a head-up display, and easier cargo loading. Shoppers who view those upgrades as optional can stop at Select. It preserves the lower-trim price advantage while removing enough everyday friction to feel like a meaningful step beyond the base model.
Trim 3 of 5
2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Preferred
Comfort-and-value sweet spot
2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Preferred Highlights
Highlighted features only — not a complete list of all equipment, options, packages, accessories, services, or availability details.
Starting MSRP*
$34,250
Step-Up Features
• 19-inch alloy wheels
• Black roof rails
• Power liftgate with programmable height
• Exterior mirror memory
• Windshield wiper de-icer
• HomeLink garage-door opener
Driver Comfort
• Heated front seats
• Heated steering wheel
• 10-way power driver’s seat
• Power lumbar support
• Two-position driver memory
Driver Information
Full-color Active Driving Display projected onto the windshield.
Best Fit
Drivers who want the first major comfort-and-convenience upgrade without moving into leather, ventilation, Bose audio, or the panoramic roof.
Real-World Analysis
The trim where frequent-use comfort becomes the main reason to upgrade
Preferred changes the ownership experience more clearly than Select because its upgrades affect the driver’s posture, temperature, information flow, and cargo routine. The power seat with lumbar adjustment and memory makes repeated driving more personal, while the heated seat and steering wheel improve cooler departures. The Active Driving Display reduces the need to look away from the road for key information.
This is the strongest fit for drivers who spend meaningful time on I-580 or I-680, share the vehicle with another driver, or load the cargo area often. A programmable power liftgate is easier to appreciate when carrying groceries, luggage, or family gear, and the memory system helps when seating preferences change between drivers.
Preferred is a natural stopping point when comfort matters more than luxury materials. Premium is worthwhile for shoppers who specifically want leather, ventilation, rear-seat heat, Bose audio, ambient lighting, and the panoramic roof. Drivers who do not need those refinements can stop at Preferred without leaving the most practical comfort upgrades behind.
Trim 4 of 5
2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium
Upscale materials, audio, and comfort
2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium Highlights
Highlighted features only — not a complete list of all equipment, options, packages, accessories, services, or availability details.
Starting MSRP*
$36,900
Step-Up Features
• 19-inch Black Metallic wheels
• Panoramic roof
• Front and rear signature illumination
• Piano-black lower body details
• Ambient door-panel lighting
• Front footwell and overhead lighting
Cabin Refinement
• Leather seating
• Ventilated front seats
• Heated rear seats
• 6-way power front-passenger seat
Shoppers who want the CX-5’s cabin to feel substantially more premium for drivers and rear passengers.
Real-World Analysis
The CX-5 for shoppers who want the cabin to feel meaningfully more premium
Premium is not simply Preferred with a longer feature list. It changes the cabin’s material quality, temperature management, passenger comfort, sound, lighting, and sense of openness. Leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, a power passenger seat, and heated rear seats spread the comfort benefits beyond the driver, while the panoramic roof and ambient lighting change the cabin’s atmosphere.
This trim fits shoppers who spend enough time in the vehicle to value the quieter rituals of ownership: cooler seating during warm afternoons, better audio on longer drives, rear-seat warmth for passengers, and a brighter cabin during weekend travel. It also makes more sense for households where the front passenger and rear passengers matter as much as the driver.
Premium is the logical stopping point when refinement matters more than the newest technology. Premium Plus does not further transform the seating materials or audio experience. Its case rests on the larger touchscreen, hands-free liftgate, parking cameras, and expanded assistance systems. Drivers satisfied with the 12.9-inch display and conventional parking view can stop at Premium.
Trim 5 of 5
2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium Plus
Technology and driver-assistance flagship
2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium Plus Highlights
Highlighted features only — not a complete list of all equipment, options, packages, accessories, services, or availability details.
Starting MSRP*
$38,990
Step-Up Features
• Hands-free power liftgate
• 15.6-inch center touchscreen
• Personalization system
• Steering-wheel paddle shifters
• Adaptive Front-Lighting System
Visibility & Parking
• 360 View Monitor
• Underfloor view
• Parking view
• Mirrors-folded view
• Front Cross Traffic Alert and Braking
Advanced Driver Support
• Driver Monitoring
• Cruising & Traffic Support
• Lane Change Assist
• Unresponsive Driver Support
Best Fit
Drivers who want the most complete CX-5 display, parking, convenience, and driver-assistance package.
Real-World Analysis
The fully equipped choice for drivers who do not want to leave major technology behind
Premium Plus retains the leather, ventilation, heated rear seating, premium audio, and panoramic roof from Premium, then makes technology the reason to move higher. The 15.6-inch touchscreen changes the center interface, while the hands-free liftgate, personalization system, adaptive lighting, and 360 View Monitor reduce friction around loading, setup, visibility, and parking.
It fits drivers who regularly navigate crowded lots, shared garages, urban streets, or dense traffic and want more information around the vehicle. The 360-degree camera views can be useful when placing the CX-5 precisely, while Front Cross Traffic Alert and Braking adds support when the vehicle’s nose enters an obstructed crossing area.
As the highest trim, Premium Plus has no move-up comparison within the lineup. The decision is whether its exclusive technology will be used often enough to justify the price over Premium. Drivers focused mainly on leather, ventilation, audio, and panoramic-roof refinement can stop one level lower. Drivers who also prioritize maximum visibility and assistance should compare Premium Plus directly.
1 of 5
Ready to Compare CX-5 Trims at Dublin Mazda?
Compare current 2026 Mazda CX-5 availability, estimate your trade, and review financing options before deciding whether the 2.5 S, Select, Preferred, Premium, or Premium Plus fits your budget and daily routine.
Final Thoughts:
Which 2026 Mazda CX-5 Trim Should You Buy?
Choose the 2.5 S when standard AWD, core safety, modern technology, and the lowest starting price are the priorities. Select is the better everyday step when wireless connectivity, rear air vents, Smart Keyless entry, upgraded seating surfaces, and heated power-folding mirrors matter more than heated or power-adjustable seating.
Preferred adds the driver-comfort and cargo features many owners will notice repeatedly, while Premium makes the larger move into leather, ventilation, premium audio, rear-seat comfort, and panoramic-roof refinement. Premium Plus is the right comparison when the 15.6-inch touchscreen, hands-free liftgate, 360-degree visibility, adaptive lighting, and expanded assistance systems solve needs you expect to have often. Use the quiz below to narrow those priorities into a starting trim.
Interactive Trim Finder
Which 2026 Mazda CX-5 Trim Fits You Best?
Answer six CX-5-specific shopping questions to see whether 2.5 S, Select, Preferred, Premium, or Premium Plus best matches your budget, comfort needs, passenger use, technology priorities, and cargo routine.
Quiz results are general shopping guidance only. Final trim fit, pricing, colors, installed equipment, accessories, incentives, offers, and availability should be confirmed with Dublin Mazda.
FAQ: 2026 Mazda CX-5 Trim Levels
Which 2026 Mazda CX-5 trims have a power liftgate?▼
Preferred and Premium include a programmable power liftgate. Premium Plus upgrades to a hands-free programmable power liftgate. The 2.5 S and Select use a manual liftgate.
Is the 2026 Mazda CX-5 turbocharged?▼
No. The published 2026 CX-5 lineup uses a naturally aspirated Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. Mazda does not list a turbo trim for the 2026 model year.
Which 2026 Mazda CX-5 trims have a panoramic roof?▼
Premium and Premium Plus include the panoramic roof. The 2.5 S, Select, and Preferred do not.
Which CX-5 trims have ventilated seats?▼
Premium and Premium Plus have ventilated front seats. They also include leather seating, a power front-passenger seat, and heated rear seats.
Can the 2026 Mazda CX-5 tow a trailer?▼
The 2026 CX-5 has a 1,500-pound towing capacity when properly equipped. Confirm hitch equipment, trailer weight, loading, and owner’s-manual requirements before towing.
Which CX-5 trim is best for East Bay commuting?▼
Preferred is a strong commuter starting point because it combines heated and power-adjustable driver comfort, memory settings, an Active Driving Display, standard AWD, and a power liftgate. Select remains the more budget-focused alternative when wireless connectivity and everyday convenience are enough.
What areas does Dublin Mazda serve?▼
Dublin Mazda serves Mazda shoppers from Dublin, Pleasanton, Danville, Alamo, San Leandro, Oakland, San Ramon, Livermore, and Brentwood, along with drivers throughout the Tri-Valley and broader East Bay.
Why Shop with Dublin Mazda?
At Dublin Mazda, we approach vehicle research as part of the ownership decision rather than a step to rush through. Our family-owned Ken Harvey Auto Group roots and guest-first philosophy shape how we help shoppers compare models, trims, financing paths, and trade-in options. We want the differences between Select, Preferred, Premium, and Premium Plus to feel clear before you make a decision.
Our team can help you compare current CX-5 inventory, review vehicle equipment, arrange a test drive, and discuss how a trade may affect the purchase or lease. Complimentary quote appraisals and online pre-qualification tools make it easier to organize the financial side of the decision before or during your visit. Clear Shield on every new vehicle also adds a dealership-specific ownership benefit.
Support continues after the sale through our certified Mazda service resources. Our service team uses factory knowledge and Genuine Mazda parts, while mobile text video inspections and clear digital cost breakdowns can give owners better context when maintenance or repairs are recommended. That transparency matters when the goal is to keep a Mazda comfortable, reliable, and enjoyable for the long term.
Our location in Dublin places us near the I-580 and I-680 interchange for shoppers traveling from the Tri-Valley and East Bay. Whether you are comparing trims online or visiting to drive them back to back, our role is to help you choose the CX-5 configuration that fits your actual commute, passengers, cargo, technology preferences, and budget.
Where to Go Next at Dublin Mazda
Continue researching the redesigned CX-5 or move into current inventory, financing, trade-in, and dealership support.
Disclaimers:
*Starting MSRP figures are current Mazda published figures as of July 13, 2026 and exclude taxes, title, license fees, optional equipment, dealer-installed accessories, and a $1,530 destination charge for the contiguous United States. Alaska destination is higher. Actual dealer price may vary.
*EPA-estimated 24 city / 30 highway / 26 combined MPG is for 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S models. Actual mileage will vary with driving conditions, maintenance, vehicle loading, driving habits, and other factors.
*The 1,500-lb towing figure requires proper equipment and loading. Confirm hitch equipment, trailer weight, tongue weight, cargo, passengers, and all owner’s-manual requirements before towing.
*Cargo, passenger-volume, dimension, feature, trim, color, premium-paint, package, connected-service, trial, subscription, and accessory information is subject to change. Confirm the exact vehicle, Monroney label, and current Mazda information before purchase.
*Inventory changes frequently. Vehicles may be sold, reserved, in transit, or configured differently from the examples described here.
*Car and Driver’s 8/10 rating and Preferred recommendation were verified for this article. Third-party ratings, recommendations, and editorial content belong to their respective publisher and may change.
*Driver-assistance features have limitations and do not replace safe, attentive driving. Review the owner’s manual for complete system information.
