# Mazda CX-5 specs and mpg by year

- **Latest year:** 2026
- **MPG (combined):** 26
- **Drive:** 4WD
- **Years covered:** 2015-2026

## Quick answer

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 is a small SUV rated at 26 mpg combined. Engines: 2.5L 4-cyl.

## Every 2026 Mazda CX-5 version

| Version | Engine | Drive | Transmission | City/Hwy | Combined | Fuel cost / year | CO2 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| CX-5 4WD | 2.5L 4-cyl | 4WD | Automatic | 24/30 | 26 mpg | $2,600 | 339 g/mi |

Each row is a version the EPA tested. Fuel cost assumes 15,000 miles a year (55% city) at national average prices; CO2 is tailpipe emissions.

## Mazda CX-5 specs by year

| Year | Engines | Transmission | Drive | MPG (combined) |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | 2.5L 4-cyl | Automatic | 4WD | 26 |
| 2025 | 2.5L 4-cyl; 2.5L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic | 4WD | 24-28 |
| 2024 | 2.5L 4-cyl; 2.5L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic | 4WD | 24-28 |
| 2023 | 2.5L 4-cyl; 2.5L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic | 4WD | 24-26 |
| 2022 | 2.5L 4-cyl; 2.5L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic | 4WD | 24-26 |
| 2021 | 2.5L 4-cyl; 2.5L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic | 4WD, FWD | 24-28 |
| 2020 | 2.5L 4-cyl; 2.5L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic | 4WD, FWD | 24-28 |
| 2019 | 2.5L 4-cyl; 2.5L 4-cyl turbo; 2.2L 4-cyl turbo diesel | Automatic | 4WD, FWD | 24-29 |
| 2018 | 2.5L 4-cyl; 2.2L 4-cyl turbo diesel | Automatic | 4WD, FWD | 26-29 |
| 2017 | 2.5L 4-cyl | Automatic | 4WD, FWD | 26-27 |
| 2016 | 2.0L 4-cyl; 2.5L 4-cyl | Manual, Automatic | 4WD, FWD | 26-29 |
| 2015 | 2.0L 4-cyl; 2.5L 4-cyl | Automatic, Manual | 4WD, FWD | 26-29 |

EPA combined ratings. MPGe is the EPA efficiency measure for electric cars. Ranges cover every engine and drivetrain EPA tested for that year.

## How has the CX-5 changed over the years?

- **2026:** dropped 2.5L 4-cyl turbo.
- **2024:** combined mpg went from 24-26 to 24-28.
- **2022:** FWD was dropped; combined mpg went from 24-28 to 24-26.
- **2020:** dropped 2.2L 4-cyl turbo diesel.
- **2019:** added 2.5L 4-cyl turbo.
- **2018:** added 2.2L 4-cyl turbo diesel.
- **2017:** dropped 2.0L 4-cyl.

## What does it cost to run a CX-5?

The EPA puts the 2026 Mazda CX-5's fuel cost at **$2,600 a year**, against about $2,215 for other current small SUVs: roughly 17% more. Over five years at 15,000 miles a year that is about $13,000 in fuel.

## CX-5 vs rivals

| Model | Powertrains | Fuel economy | Fuel cost / year |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [Toyota RAV4](/vehicles/toyota-rav4) | Hybrid | 38-43 mpg | $1,550-$1,750 |
| [Kia Sportage](/vehicles/kia-sportage) | Gas, Hybrid, Plug-in hybrid | 24-42 mpg | $1,600-$2,800 |
| [Toyota Corolla Cross](/vehicles/toyota-corolla-cross) | Gas, Hybrid | 30-42 mpg | $1,600-$2,250 |
| [Ford Escape](/vehicles/ford-escape) | Gas, Hybrid, Plug-in hybrid | 26-40 mpg | $1,700-$2,600 |
| [Honda CR-V](/vehicles/honda-cr-v) | Gas, Hybrid, Hydrogen | 29-40 mpg | $1,700-$2,300 |
| [Lexus NX](/vehicles/lexus-nx) | Gas, Hybrid | 24-40 mpg | $2,050-$3,400 |
| [Hyundai Tucson](/vehicles/hyundai-tucson) | Gas, Hybrid, Plug-in hybrid | 26-38 mpg | $1,750-$2,600 |
| [Kia Sorento](/vehicles/kia-sorento) | Gas, Hybrid, Plug-in hybrid | 23-37 mpg | $1,800-$2,900 |

Other current small SUVs from other makes, most efficient first.

## Mazda CX-5 problems owners report most

| System (NHTSA category) | Complaints |
| --- | --- |
| Engine | 435 |
| Electrical System | 246 |
| Exterior Lighting | 212 |
| Power Train | 173 |
| Service Brakes | 168 |
| Visibility/Wiper | 98 |
| Structure | 82 |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 77 |

From 1,675 complaints filed with NHTSA for 2015-2026 models. Most-complained-about model year: **2016**.

## Guides for common Mazda CX-5 problems

- **Engine** (435 complaints): [Why is my car idling rough](/symptoms/rough-idle) - [Why is my engine knocking](/symptoms/engine-knocking-noise) - [Why is my car leaking oil](/symptoms/car-leaking-oil) - [engine replacement cost](/cost/engine-replacement) - [timing chain replacement cost](/cost/timing-chain-replacement) - [valve cover gasket replacement cost](/cost/valve-cover-gasket-replacement)
- **Electrical** (246 complaints): [Why does my car battery keep dying](/symptoms/car-battery-keeps-dying) - [Why are my headlights flickering](/symptoms/headlights-flickering) - [Why won't my car start](/symptoms/car-wont-start) - [alternator replacement cost](/cost/alternator-replacement) - [car battery replacement cost](/cost/car-battery-replacement) - [starter replacement cost](/cost/starter-replacement)
- **Exterior lighting** (212 complaints): [headlight bulb replacement cost](/cost/headlight-bulb-replacement)
- **Transmission and drivetrain** (173 complaints): [Why is my transmission slipping](/symptoms/transmission-slipping) - [Why won't my car go into gear](/symptoms/car-wont-go-into-gear) - [Why does my car jerk when I accelerate](/symptoms/car-jerks-when-accelerating) - [transmission replacement cost](/cost/transmission-replacement) - [transmission fluid change cost](/cost/transmission-fluid-change) - [clutch replacement cost](/cost/clutch-replacement)
- **Brake** (168 complaints): [Why are my brakes squeaking](/symptoms/squeaky-brakes) - [Why do my brakes make a grinding noise](/symptoms/brake-grinding-noise) - [Why does my brake pedal go to the floor](/symptoms/brake-pedal-goes-to-floor) - [brake pad replacement cost](/cost/brake-pad-replacement) - [brake rotor replacement cost](/cost/brake-rotor-replacement) - [brake caliper replacement cost](/cost/brake-caliper-replacement)

## Mazda CX-5 warning lights

- [CX-5: Check engine light](/warning-lights/check-engine/mazda-cx-5): 91 complaints
- [CX-5: Brake warning light](/warning-lights/brake/mazda-cx-5): 55 complaints
- [CX-5: Oil pressure warning light](/warning-lights/oil-pressure/mazda-cx-5): 55 complaints
- [CX-5: Coolant temperature warning light](/warning-lights/coolant-temperature/mazda-cx-5): 51 complaints
- [CX-5: Airbag (SRS) warning light](/warning-lights/airbag/mazda-cx-5): 19 complaints
- [CX-5: Traction control light](/warning-lights/traction-control/mazda-cx-5): 13 complaints
- [CX-5: Power steering warning light](/warning-lights/power-steering/mazda-cx-5): 11 complaints
- [CX-5: Tire pressure (TPMS) light](/warning-lights/tire-pressure/mazda-cx-5): 11 complaints

## Mazda CX-5 recalls (9)

| Campaign | Model years | Component | Reported |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [21V875000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=21V875000) | 2018-2019 | Fuel System, Gasoline: Delivery | 2021-11-12 |
| [20V063000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=20V063000) | 2016 | Exterior Lighting: Headlights | 2020-02-06 |
| [19V497000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=19V497000) | 2018-2019 | Engine | 2019-06-27 |
| [18V426000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=18V426000) | 2018 | Air Bags: Side/Window | 2018-06-25 |
| [17V744000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=17V744000) | 2017 | Trailer Hitches | 2017-11-21 |
| [16V644000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=16V644000) | 2015-2016 | Structure: Body | 2016-09-06 |
| [16V203000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=16V203000) | 2015-2016 | Steering | 2016-04-11 |
| [16V064000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=16V064000) | 2015-2016 | Fuel System, Gasoline: Storage | 2016-02-03 |
| [16E002000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=16E002000) | 2015-2016 | Visibility: Windshield | 2016-01-19 |

Recall repairs are free at any Mazda dealer. Check your VIN at [nhtsa.gov/recalls](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). Data as of 2026-11-04.

## Frequently asked questions

### What mpg does the 2026 Mazda CX-5 get?

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 is EPA-rated at 26 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain. Real-world mileage varies with speed, climate and load.

### What engine does the 2026 Mazda CX-5 have?

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 comes with: 2.5L 4-cyl. It uses automatic transmission and is offered with 4WD.

### Is there a hybrid Mazda CX-5?

No. In the EPA data from 2015-2026 the Mazda CX-5 has no hybrid version.

### Which Mazda CX-5 year gets the best gas mileage?

In the EPA data, the 2019 Mazda CX-5 has the highest combined rating, up to 29 mpg. Ratings for the same model can change between years when engines or test procedures change.

### How much does it cost to fuel a 2026 Mazda CX-5 for a year?

About $2,600 a year, using the EPA's assumptions of 15,000 miles (55% city, 45% highway) at national average fuel prices. Your cost depends on your local prices, mileage and driving style.

### What is the city and highway mpg of the 2026 Mazda CX-5?

The most efficient 2026 version, the CX-5 4WD, is rated 24 mpg city and 30 mpg highway (26 combined). Other engines and drivetrains are rated lower; the versions table above lists each one.

### How much CO2 does the 2026 Mazda CX-5 emit?

EPA rates its tailpipe CO2 at 339 grams per mile depending on version. Lower is better; the cleanest gas cars sit under 250 g/mi and electric cars have none at the tailpipe.

### Does the 2026 Mazda CX-5 come with all-wheel drive?

Yes. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 is offered with 4WD. All- or four-wheel drive usually costs 1-3 mpg compared with the two-wheel-drive version of the same engine, as the versions table shows.

### Is the Mazda CX-5 cheap to run compared with other small SUVs?

No, dearer than average: its EPA annual fuel cost of $2,600 compares with about $2,215 for other current small SUV models. Fuel is only part of running costs; insurance, tires and repairs also differ.

### How many recalls does the Mazda CX-5 have?

NHTSA lists 9 recalls for 2015-2026 Mazda CX-5 models as of 2026-11-04, the latest reported 2021-11-12 (21V875000). Recall work is free; enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see which apply to your car.

### What is the most common problem with the Mazda CX-5?

In NHTSA owner complaints the most-reported category is engine, followed by electrical system. The 2016 model year has the most complaints (512), partly because complaint counts follow sales volume.

## Sources

- [fueleconomy.gov (US DOE and EPA)](https://www.fueleconomy.gov/)
- [NHTSA: Vehicle safety complaints and recalls (api.nhtsa.gov)](https://www.nhtsa.gov/nhtsa-datasets-and-apis)

## All Mazda SUVs

- [Mazda CX-30](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/mazda-cx-30)
- [Mazda CX-50](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/mazda-cx-50)
- [Mazda CX-90](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/mazda-cx-90)

## More Mazda models

- [Mazda 3](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/mazda-3)
- [Mazda MX-5](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/mazda-mx-5)
- [Mazda 2](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/mazda-2): discontinued
- [Mazda 6](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/mazda-6): discontinued
- [Mazda CX-3](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/mazda-cx-3): discontinued
- [Mazda CX-9](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/mazda-cx-9): discontinued

## Other small SUVs

- [Mercedes-Benz EQB](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/mercedes-benz-eqb)
- [Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/mercedes-benz-glb-class)
- [Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/mercedes-benz-glc-class)
- [Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/mitsubishi-eclipse-cross)
- [Mitsubishi Outlander](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/mitsubishi-outlander)
- [Nissan Kicks](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/nissan-kicks)

## Car care

- [How long do tires last?](https://diagxcar.com/how-long/tires)
- [How often to change oil](https://diagxcar.com/how-often/change-oil)
- [Tire size calculator](https://diagxcar.com/tools/tire-size-calculator)

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Source page: https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/mazda-cx-5
Updated: 2026-11-03
General information, not a substitute for a qualified mechanic.