The Mazda CX-5 is a steal, even with its 2026 upgrades! With a sleek redesign and new features, you'd expect a hefty price tag, but Mazda has kept it affordable. Starting at $31,485, it's a bargain compared to many competitors, especially considering the enhancements.
But here's the catch: despite being a fantastic deal, it's not the cheapest SUV on the market. The Kia Sportage takes that crown at $30,285. Yet, the CX-5 offers a unique blend of style, performance, and value that's hard to beat. With a longer body, improved cargo space, and a powerful engine, it's a compelling choice.
The 2026 CX-5 lineup offers a range of trims, each with a slight price increase. The base model, 2.5S, starts at $31,485, while the top-tier 2.5S Premium Plus trim reaches $40,485. And if you want that premium paint job, it'll cost you an extra $595. But is it worth it? Well, that's a matter of personal preference.
When compared to other compact SUVs, the CX-5 holds its own. It's more affordable than the Toyota RAV4, Volkswagen Tiguan, and Honda CR-V, which all start at over $32,000. And it's a steal compared to the Ford Escape, which starts at a higher price point.
And this is where it gets interesting: the CX-5's closest sibling, the CX-50, is only $90 cheaper. So, is the CX-5 a better value proposition? It's a question that sparks debate among car enthusiasts. Some argue that the CX-50 offers more features and a unique design, while others prefer the classic CX-5. What's your take on this?
Mazda has yet to reveal all the details for the 2026 CX-5, but we're eagerly awaiting the hybrid version. If it retains the driving dynamics of the current model, it's sure to be a hit. So, is the Mazda CX-5 the ultimate bargain SUV? We think it's a strong contender, but we'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
