READER TEST TEAM Mazda CX-5

The latest iteration of Mazda's family SUV is larger than before, promising improved space and comfort inside. But can it woo buyers away from the likes of the Kia Sportage? Let's see what some of our readers have to say

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THE CX-5 IS already Mazda's bestselling model in the UK and Europe, but now this third-generation version has its sights set on beating the class leaders in the family SUV market.

In order to be competitive with the likes of the Kia Sportage, Nissan Qashqai and Volkswagen Tiguan, the new CX-5 will need to be good to drive and offer a comfortable, well-appointed interior, reasonable running costs and strong practicality.

On the latter front, the new CX-5 is larger all round than the car it replaces, with the aim of improving interior space. The boot has grown by 61 litres to 583 litres, making it larger than the Qashqai's but still slightly down on the Sportage's and Hyundai Tucson's.

The engine lineup has been streamlined to just one option: a 139bhp 2.5-litre petrol unit with mild hybrid electrical assistance to boost efficiency. Front-wheel drive is standard, but a four-wheel-drive version will be offered as an alternative for buyers who need additional traction in slippery conditions.

Also new is a Google-based infotainment system, with a large central touchscreen that controls most functions, plus a digital instrument cluster and optional head-up display.

The CX-5 is expected to be priced from around £35,000 when it arrives in summer 2026. That will make it more expensive than most of its rivals, but slightly cheaper than premium models such as the Volvo XC40.

Will it be a hit with buyers, though? We invited a group of readers to look at a pre-production model and give us their opinions.

Age 74 Job Retired chartered structural engineer Drives Mazda CX-30

"The exterior styling is fairly similar to that of the previous CX-5; that's good, because it means it will be immediately recognisable on the road.