Automakers have a flair for poetry when it comes to color names. Sometimes it feels as if the marketing department moonlights as a creative writing club. In the case of the 2026 Mazda CX-5, the exterior paint is called Soul Red Crystal Metallic, paired with an interior called Sport Tan. Put the two together and the result is exactly what the name suggests: rich, deep red paint that gleams in the sunlight and a warm interior that feels upscale the moment you open the door.
Mazda’s design language has long leaned toward the elegant side of the automotive spectrum, and the CX-5 continues that tradition. My test vehicle wore black 19-inch alloy wheels wrapped in all-season tires, along with piano-black exterior accents, rear privacy glass, and a subtle roof spoiler that adds a touch of athleticism without shouting about it.
The CX-5 also proved to be a terrific subject for photography. I staged the vehicle at several locations around the Denver area, including two aviation-inspired settings: one near Centennial Airport in Arapahoe County and another near Denver International Airport. The vibrant red paint popped against the Colorado sky and the sleek lines of nearby aircraft.
Another photo stop brought the CX-5 to the Colorado State Capitol, positioning the vehicle on the east side on Grant Street with the famous gold-plated dome rising behind it. Against that iconic Colorado backdrop, the Mazda seemed right at home.
But while the styling is appealing, the real story of the CX-5 begins when you get behind the wheel.
Under the hood sits Mazda’s Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter engine, producing 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. It pairs with Mazda’s Skyactiv-Drive six-speed automatic transmission, which includes a sport mode for more spirited driving.
On paper those numbers may not sound extraordinary in today’s horsepower-happy marketplace, yet the CX-5 delivers something that many competitors struggle to match: balance. The engine is responsive, the transmission shifts smoothly, and the vehicle’s overall composure makes it feel lighter and more athletic than many compact SUVs.
Mazda’s i-Activ all-wheel drive system, along with front and rear stabilizer bars and G-Vectoring Control Plus, helps the CX-5 carve through curves with surprising precision. Electric power-assisted steering is nicely weighted, making the vehicle feel connected to the road rather than isolated from it.
I invited two friends along during portions of the test drive, and both immediately commented on how planted and confident the CX-5 feels on the road. That has long been one of Mazda’s calling cards. While many crossovers prioritize simple transportation, Mazda still builds vehicles for people who enjoy the act of driving.
Inside, the CX-5 leans toward the premium end of the segment. The test vehicle featured leather-trimmed seats, a heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats, and heated rear seats. The driver’s seat includes power adjustments with memory settings, while rear passengers benefit from dedicated air-conditioning vents.
Technology is centered around a 10.25-inch digital display with Google built-in, plus wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A Bose 12-speaker sound system provides impressive audio clarity, and a wireless phone charger keeps devices topped up on longer drives.
Safety technology is equally comprehensive. The CX-5 includes blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning with lane-keep assist, rear cross-traffic alert, radar cruise control, and a smart brake system designed to help avoid or mitigate collisions. Front and rear parking sensors and traffic sign recognition round out the suite.
Mazda also equips the CX-5 with a strong set of standard protections, including multiple airbags, traction control, hill-launch assist, and child seat anchors. Warranty coverage includes a 36-month/36,000-mile limited warranty and a 60-month/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, along with roadside assistance.
All of those features add up to a compact SUV that punches above its weight class.
In an era where many vehicles feel increasingly alike, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 stands out by maintaining a clear identity. It blends attractive design, thoughtful interior details, and a driving experience that still rewards the person in the driver’s seat.
And if you happen to order yours in Soul Red Crystal Metallic, don’t be surprised if you find yourself inventing excuses to take the long way home.
Notable Features:
Completely redesigned instrument cluster and driver control panel. Also, an awesome panoramic moonroof, power driver seat with memory, wireless charging.
Mazda CX-5 – MSRP: Base: $38,990 – As tested: $41,080
Last week, I inadvertently left out the MSRP on the Toyota RAV4 HEV (hybrid) – Base: $43,300 – As tested: $46,880
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