Mazda explained to me why they SHELVED buttons and knobs in the new CX-5…now I’m a believer?

#mazda #cx5 #2026

I spoke with Mazda about their decision behind the touchscreen-forward interface inside the 2026 CX-5. In the previous 2nd gen cx-5 Mazda had a good blend of tech and physical controls, so why did it need to change?

If you wanted to read my quick notes after learning more about Mazda's new HMI and screen choices:
Mazda states that the most important thing for the driver to do is focus on driving
Goal is to reduce visual manual and cognitive distraction is top of mind when the driver is interacting with car features
Google built ins voice control reduces need for physical interactions
Google Gemini
Voice climate, voice radio, voice texts, voice navigation
Mazda wanted to reduce the amount of glance angle the driver needs to perform a specific task, and reduce eye focus time inside vehicle
Also wanted to preserve reach
Volume control on the passenger side because driver has volume on wheel
Not good placement on wheel though
Mazda says they’ve increased the amount of controls on the st. wheel so you don’t need to take hands off wheel
The new screens and lack of rotary dial commander knob
“A lot of consideration was put into the new HMI design
Base on internal testing and Mazda’s consumer research they believe this solution is best equipped to handle the wants and needs of our customers
T/S have become popular due to ease of use and flexibility in supporting dynamic interfaces
This provides an easier and quicker learning curve for a wider range of users
Especially with AA ACP
Drag and drop, pinch to zoom, swipe
Commonly used features like CC are docked at the bottom
T/C is offset to the right to minimize blind spots from steering wheel

INTUITIVE TECHNOLOGY

Technology goes hand in hand with this rethought interior design philosophy. The all-new CX-5 features a new available 15.6-inch integrated touchscreen display, the largest ever offered on a Mazda vehicle. The system is the hub for infotainment and connectivity, offering seamless integration and intuitive operation thanks to smartphone-like usability and a customizable home screen with quick access to frequently used features.

This system comes with Google built-in1, which offers a more connected experience, with the ability to integrate key Google apps and services, like Google Gemini, an AI assistant from Google, which is coming soon to cars with Google built-in and allows owners to take hands-free control of everything that matters on the road. Owners can speak naturally, ask complex questions, and steer the conversation with follow-ups—no need to memorize commands or phrases.

The 2026 CX-5 will launch with a 2.5-liter SkyActiv-G four-cylinder engine which produces 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and standard i-Activ AWD. The 2.5 S powertrain package has proven itself as a popular, reliable offering from Mazda, and this latest iteration has been recalibrated for greater flexibility, with an emphasis on offering both sharper response and also a more relaxed, quiet demeanor, based on how the vehicle is driven.

An electrified alternative is also coming, as CX-5 will debut a new hybrid powertrain to the Mazda family in 2027. The new SkyActiv-Z engine will feature Mazda Hybrid System technology to offer a higher level of performance and fuel efficiency along with the engaging drive that our customers expect.

With innovative, easy-to-use technology, greatly improved cabin space and utility, along with the high level of craftsmanship and safety our customers have to come expect, the all-new 2026 CX-5 has elevated CX-5 to a new standard.

Going on sale in early 2026, customers can learn more about the all-new 2026 Mazda CX-5 on MazdaUSA.com.

Owners can also explore and navigate with confidence using fresh traffic and place information from Google Maps. When signed into a Google Account from their car, owners can get access to their saved places and previous searches for a more personalized experience.

With Google built-in, CX-5 owners can also access the Google Play Store for a curated selection of in-vehicle compatible apps, plus ability for Mazda to add branded and third-party features via future updates. This includes popular apps for music, video streaming, and news, creating an experience that feels like an extension of everyday digital life.

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