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Mazda CX-5 Evolve 2026 review: snapshot

EXPERT RATING
7.5

Likes

The value sweet-spot in the CX-5 range
Good looking inside and out
A comfortable ride

Dislikes

Loss of buttons is a backward step
No hybrid availability
Instrument cluster loses lovely dials
Byron Mathioudakis

Contributing Journalist

2 min read

The Mazda CX-5 Evolve is the second least-expensive third-generation version of the KM-series mid-sized SUV.

Made in Japan, this is the sweet spot of the latest range if value is your priority, starting from $42,990 before on-road costs.

On top of the Pure AWD’s dual-zone climate control, 12.9-inch touchscreen, 10.25-inch instrumentation, reverse camera, cloth trim, rain-sensing wipers, front and rear parking sensors and 17-inch alloy wheels, the Evolve gains keyless entry/start, heated front seats, rear-seat air vents, wireless for the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a smartphone charger, heated/folding exterior mirrors and a frameless auto-dimming rear-view mirror.

On the safety front there are advanced driver assist systems (ADAS), including autonomous emergency braking (AEB), front and rear cross-traffic alert, lane support systems, a blind-spot monitor, adaptive cruise control and more.

Under the bonnet is Mazda’s G25 2.5-litre four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine, making 132kW of power and 242Nm of torque, or 138kW and 257Nm respectively if premium petrol is used.

It drives all four wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission and part-time AWD system.

The Evolve’s ADR 81/02 combined average fuel-consumption figure is 7.4-litres per 100km, for a carbon-dioxide emissions rating of 173g/km.

From the 2028 model year a new hybrid model is coming for those who demand lower fuel consumption.

Along with the old G20 2.0-litre petrol engine, the G35 2.5-litre turbo-petrol and D22 2.2-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder units have been discontinued.

The Evolve is expected to be the most popular version of the CX-5, especially as it now offers a far-roomier rear-seat area and a larger cargo capacity.

Read the full 2026 Mazda CX-5 review

Mazda CX-5 2026: G25 Evolve (Awd)

Engine Type Inline 4, 2.5L
Fuel Type Unleaded Petrol
Fuel Efficiency 7.4L/100km (combined)
Seating 5
Price From $42,990

Pricing Guides

$46,219
Price is based on the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price for the lowest priced Mazda CX-5 2026 variant.
LOWEST PRICE
$37,240
HIGHEST PRICE
$56,150
Byron Mathioudakis

Contributing Journalist

Byron started his motoring journalism career when he joined John Mellor in 1997 before becoming a freelance motoring writer two years later. He wrote for several motoring publications and was ABC Youth radio Triple J's "all things automotive" correspondent from 2001 to 2003. He rejoined John Mellor in early 2003 and has been with GoAutoMedia as a senior product and industry journalist ever since. With an eye for detail and a vast knowledge base of both new and used cars Byron lives and breathes motoring. His encyclopedic knowledge of cars was acquired from childhood by reading just about every issue of every car magazine ever to hit a newsstand in Australia. The child Byron was the consummate car spotter, devoured and collected anything written about cars that he could lay his hands on and by nine had driven more imaginary miles at the wheel of the family Ford Falcon in the driveway at home than many people drive in a lifetime. The teenage Byron filled in the agonising years leading up to getting his driver's license by reading the words of the leading motoring editors of the country and learning what they look for in a car and how to write it. In short, Byron loves cars and knows pretty much all there is to know about every vehicle released during his lifetime as well as most of the ones that were around before then.
About Author
Disclaimer: The pricing information shown in the editorial content (Review Prices) is to be used as a guide only and is based on information provided to Carsguide Autotrader Media Solutions Pty Ltd (Carsguide) both by third party sources and the car manufacturer at the time of publication. The Review Prices were correct at the time of publication. Carsguide does not warrant or represent that the information is accurate, reliable, complete, current or suitable for any particular purpose. You should not use or rely upon this information without conducting an independent assessment and valuation of the vehicle.
Pricing Guide
$42,990
Lowest price, based on new car retail price.
For more information on
2026 Mazda CX‑5
See Pricing & Specs

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