S7E13 — Inside Mazda’s Strategy: How the 2026 CX-5 Reinvents Their Best-Seller
About this episode
The discussion dives into Mazda's strategic updates for the 2026 CX-5, focusing on how the model balances retaining its acclaimed powertrain with significant enhancements in technology, interior space, and safety. Key highlights include the introduction of a touchscreen infotainment system, increased rear seat and cargo space, and clever design tweaks like wider rear door openings and a flexible 40/20/40 rear seat split. Mazda emphasizes a blend of emotional appeal and practicality, showcasing the CX-5's competitive edge against rivals like the Hyundai Tucson and Honda CR-V. Safety improvements and user-friendly controls also play a central role in the redesign.
From Encinitas, California, we explore the fully updated 2026 Mazda CX-5 and why Mazda sees it as the cornerstone of its global strategy. With more interior space, improved practicality, and a long-overdue Google-powered infotainment system, the CX-5 finally steps confidently into the 21st century. We discuss what’s new—and why it matters.
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Mazda Cx5
"Today we're here in Encinera sitting in the 2026 Mazda CX-5, which got a complete, well not complete refresh, because the engine is the same, right?"
The Mazda CX-5 is a small SUV that is easy to drive and looks nice. The 2026 version got some updates but kept the same engine as the older model.
The Mazda CX-5 is a compact crossover SUV known for its stylish design, engaging driving dynamics, and efficient engines. The 2026 model received a refresh, updating various features while retaining the same engine as before.
BMW M3
"I drove the M3 a couple of weeks ago, oh I'm sorry, I need to introduce you, so David you're titled"
The BMW M3 is a fast and sporty car that is based on the regular BMW 3 Series. It's popular for being fun to drive and powerful.
The BMW M3 is a high-performance version of the BMW 3 Series, known for its sporty handling, powerful engines, and status as a classic sports sedan. It is often used as a benchmark for driving dynamics in its segment.
Hyundai Tucson
"So you brought the Hyundai Tucson, the Hyundai..."
The Hyundai Tucson is a small SUV that many people buy because it's reliable and has good features. It's popular among families and daily drivers.
The Hyundai Tucson is a compact crossover SUV known for its value, features, and reliability in the competitive SUV segment.
Honda CR-V
"The CR-V?"
The Honda CR-V is a small SUV that lots of people buy because it's good on gas, reliable, and has plenty of space for passengers and cargo.
The Honda CR-V is a compact SUV that is one of the best-selling vehicles in its segment due to its practicality, fuel efficiency, and reliability.
Toyota 4Runner
"The CR-V, I'm sorry, and the four-runner from Toyota, which is the top seller in the segment,"
The Toyota 4Runner is a bigger SUV that can handle rough roads and outdoor adventures. Many people buy it because it lasts a long time and holds its value.
The Toyota 4Runner is a midsize SUV known for its rugged off-road capability and strong resale value, making it a top seller in its segment.
40/20/40 split
"And that 40, 20, 40 split is a perfect example of that because you can load stuff and still,"
This means the back seats can fold down in three parts, so you can carry big things and still have seats for people.
A 40/20/40 split refers to a rear seat configuration where the seatback is divided into three sections, allowing different combinations of folding to increase cargo space while still accommodating passengers.
Mazda 3
"Yeah, exactly. In the Mazda 3, I mean, this is a different car, but still Mazda..."
The Mazda RX-3 is an old sporty car made by Mazda that used a special kind of engine called a rotary engine. People talk about it because it was different from most cars and was fun to drive back in the day.
The Mazda RX-3 is a classic sports car from the 1970s known for its rotary engine, which was unique compared to traditional piston engines. It holds significance for enthusiasts due to its lightweight design and racing heritage, often discussed when comparing Mazda's history of innovative engineering.
power liftgate
"...So like we have as the power liftgate, that's really nice, heated seats, heated steering..."
A power liftgate is a back door on some cars that opens and closes by itself when you press a button, so you don't have to lift it manually.
A power liftgate is an electronically operated rear door on SUVs or hatchbacks that opens and closes automatically, often controlled by a button or key fob.
heated seats
"...So like we have as the power liftgate, that's really nice, heated seats, heated steering..."
Heated seats are car seats that can warm up to keep you cozy when it's cold outside.
Heated seats are car seats equipped with built-in heating elements to provide warmth to occupants, especially useful in cold weather.
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