2026 Mazda CX-5 Trim Levels Explained near Sun Prairie, WI
The all-new 2026 Mazda CX-5 brings Mazda’s best-selling crossover into a more spacious, more connected, and more refined generation while preserving the responsive character that has made CX-5 so popular. For shoppers comparing a 2026 Mazda CX-5 near Sun Prairie, WI, the big story is balance: standard i-Activ AWD®, a proven 2.5-liter SkyActiv-G four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, a 6-speed automatic transmission, and a cabin designed around comfort for every passenger. Mazda expanded the CX-5’s overall length and wheelbase by 4.5 inches compared with the previous model, helping improve rear legroom, knee room, headroom, and cargo usability. The lower lift-in height also makes loading bulky items easier. At Russ Darrow Mazda of Madison, we see the 2026 CX-5 as a smart choice for drivers who want upscale design, practical space, intuitive technology, and confidence for everyday Wisconsin driving.
| Trim Level | Focus | Wheels | Seating | Technology |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5 S | Core confidence and control | 17-inch alloy | Cloth seating | Mazda Connect |
| 2.5 S Select | Everyday comfort upgrade | 19-inch alloy | Leatherette-trimmed seating | Enhanced connectivity |
| 2.5 S Preferred | Comfort with daily convenience | 19-inch alloy | Heated front seats | Power liftgate |
| 2.5 S Carbon Edition | Distinctive design details | Black alloy wheels | Red leather-trimmed seats | Carbon Edition accents |
| 2.5 S Premium Plus | Flagship comfort and tech | 19-inch alloy | Premium-trimmed seating | 15.6-inch touchscreen |
2026 Mazda CX-5 Trim Options
2.5 S
2.5-liter SkyActiv-G · 6-speed automatic · i-Activ AWD®
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S gives shoppers the essential CX-5 strengths without overcomplicating the decision. Its 2.5-liter SkyActiv-G four-cylinder engine delivers 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission tuned for both response and smoothness. Standard i-Activ AWD® is especially meaningful for Wisconsin drivers because it supports confident takeoffs, steady cornering, and composed handling on changing road surfaces. The redesigned body also brings a more planted look, influenced by Mazda’s evolved Kodo design language, with a wider-set front end, angular lighting elements, and bold MAZDA lettering at the rear. Inside, the 2.5 S benefits from the all-new CX-5’s larger structure, including easier entry through larger door openings and a cargo area that is longer, taller, and easier to load than before. For online shoppers who want Mazda craftsmanship, practical utility, and standard all-wheel-drive assurance, this base trim is already a compelling way to step into the new generation.
2.5 S Select
19-inch wheels · leatherette-trimmed seats · enhanced connectivity
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select is a natural move for drivers who want the CX-5’s confident foundation with a more upscale everyday feel. It keeps the same responsive 2.5-liter SkyActiv-G engine, 6-speed automatic transmission, and standard i-Activ AWD®, then adds comfort and design details that make the cabin feel more finished. The upgraded seating material is easier to appreciate during repeated errands, daily commuting, and family use, while the available 19-inch wheel design gives the CX-5 a stronger stance that aligns well with its bolder exterior proportions. This trim also makes sense for shoppers searching for a 2026 Mazda CX-5 near Sun Prairie, WI because it hits a sweet spot between practical value and premium presentation. The all-new cabin layout is intentionally uncluttered, allowing the driver to focus while passengers enjoy the added space. With larger rear-seat dimensions, improved cargo access, and Mazda’s careful attention to touchpoints, the 2.5 S Select feels like a smart long-term compact SUV choice.
2.5 S Preferred
Power liftgate · power moonroof · heated front seats
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Preferred builds on the Select trim by adding conveniences that many drivers notice every week. A power liftgate is especially useful when loading groceries, sports bags, luggage, or home project supplies, and the redesigned cargo area makes that process even easier with its lower lift-in height and improved dimensions. Heated front seats add comfort for early morning drives, while the power moonroof helps the cabin feel more open without distracting from Mazda’s clean interior layout. Preferred is also the trim where the CX-5 starts to feel especially well suited for small families, commuting couples, and drivers who want a refined compact SUV without stepping all the way to the top of the lineup. The additional rear legroom, knee room, and headroom are meaningful upgrades for passengers, particularly on drives between Sun Prairie, downtown Madison, and surrounding communities. With standard i-Activ AWD®, calm cabin tuning, and useful features that simplify real life, Preferred is one of the lineup’s most balanced trims.
2.5 S Carbon Edition
Polymetal Gray Metallic · red leather-trimmed seats · black alloy wheels
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Carbon Edition is designed for shoppers who want the CX-5’s everyday practicality with a more distinctive personality. Mazda has long been known for design, and the Carbon Edition uses carefully chosen colors and finishes to give the SUV a more custom look from the factory. Polymetal Gray Metallic, black alloy wheels, and red leather-trimmed seats create a confident visual combination, while the all-new body shape gives those details a stronger canvas. The redesigned front end, chiseled lighting elements, and bold rear lettering help the Carbon Edition stand out in a parking lot without feeling excessive. Just as important, this trim remains useful and comfortable. It keeps the larger cabin, improved rear passenger space, and more accommodating cargo area that define the new CX-5 generation. It also maintains standard i-Activ AWD® and the proven SkyActiv-G powertrain, so the style does not come at the expense of everyday confidence. For shoppers who care about presentation as much as practicality, Carbon Edition is easy to recommend.
2.5 S Premium Plus
15.6-inch touchscreen · Google built-in · panoramic sunroof · advanced ADAS
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium Plus is the most complete expression of the all-new CX-5’s technology, comfort, and refinement. Its available 15.6-inch integrated touchscreen is the largest ever offered on a Mazda vehicle, giving the cabin a modern control center with smartphone-like usability and a customizable home screen. Google built-in adds access to familiar services such as Google Maps, Google Play, and Google Gemini, allowing the infotainment experience to feel more connected to daily digital habits. The available panoramic sunroof also makes excellent use of the CX-5’s expanded interior, giving passengers a more open, relaxed environment. Premium Plus is also a strong fit for drivers who prioritize advanced driver assistance features, since the new CX-5 introduces an expanded suite of Advanced Driver Assistance System technologies designed to support awareness and confidence. Combined with Mazda’s refined materials, calm cabin atmosphere, and standard i-Activ AWD®, this trim feels polished without losing the nimble, driver-focused personality that has always made the CX-5 appealing.
Which 2026 Mazda CX-5 Trim is Best for Sun Prairie Drivers?
Choosing the right CX-5 trim depends on how much comfort, technology, and design distinction you want in your daily routine. Sun Prairie drivers often balance local errands, school drop-offs, East Towne shopping trips, and commuting toward Madison, so a compact SUV needs to feel manageable in traffic while still offering room for passengers and cargo. The all-new CX-5 answers that need with standard i-Activ AWD®, a recalibrated 2.5-liter SkyActiv-G engine, expanded rear-seat space, larger cargo dimensions, and easier loading. If you want the most straightforward value, the 2.5 S is already well equipped. If you prefer richer materials and added convenience, Select and Preferred deserve close attention. Carbon Edition is ideal for drivers who want a more expressive look, while Premium Plus is the strongest match for shoppers who want the biggest screen, Google built-in, an airy cabin feel, and the most premium overall experience from Russ Darrow Mazda of Madison.
For most shoppers, the 2.5 S Preferred is the best all-around trim because it adds meaningful everyday comfort while preserving the CX-5’s practical, confident character.
- Choose 2.5 S if you want standard i-Activ AWD® and core Mazda performance.
- Choose 2.5 S Select or 2.5 S Preferred if comfort and daily convenience matter most.
- Choose 2.5 S Carbon Edition if design distinction is a priority.
- Choose 2.5 S Premium Plus if you want the most advanced technology and refinement.
*Images may not show trim level described