2026 CX-5 Space Upgrade: What the Extra 114 Millimetres Means for BC Families
September 29 2025,
The all-new 2026 Mazda CX-5 will arrive in Spring 2026 with a wheelbase increase of 114 millimetres over the outgoing 2025 model. This dimensional change isn't cosmetic—it translates directly into more rear legroom, expanded cargo space, and easier access for families in British Columbia. The redesign focuses on making the CX-5 more practical for how people in Burnaby, Vancouver, and across the province use their vehicles every day.
Here's what the extra 114 millimetres of wheelbase delivers in real-world terms, backed by measurements from Mazda's announcement on July 10, 2025.
2025 vs. 2026 CX-5: Dimensional Comparison
|
Measurement |
2025 CX-5 |
2026 CX-5 |
Change |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Overall Length |
4,575 mm |
4,689 mm |
+114 mm |
|
Wheelbase |
2,698 mm |
2,812 mm |
+114 mm |
|
Overall Width |
1,844 mm |
1,859 mm |
+15 mm |
|
Rear Legroom |
1,007 mm |
Increased (exact figure TBD) |
TBD |
|
Cargo Length |
955 mm |
1,005 mm (estimated) |
+50 mm |
|
Cargo Height |
824 mm |
850+ mm (estimated) |
+26+ mm |
|
Lift-in Height |
Standard |
Lower by 14+ mm |
-14+ mm |
The 114 mm wheelbase extension adds length between the front and rear axles, which directly increases rear-seat space. The overall length grows by the same amount, while width increases by 15 mm. Mazda has confirmed that rear passengers gain more leg, knee, and headroom, though exact measurements will be finalized closer to the vehicle's Spring 2026 launch.
What the Wheelbase Increase Means for Rear Passengers
The 2025 CX-5 offers 1,007 mm of rear legroom. The 114 mm wheelbase extension on the 2026 model pushes the rear seats farther from the front seats, creating more space for passengers to stretch out. This change matters for:
- Families with car seats: Easier installation and more legroom for front passengers when car seats are in place.
- Teenagers and adults in the back: Taller passengers can sit comfortably without knees pressing into the front seats.
- Long highway trips: More space reduces fatigue on drives from the Lower Mainland to the Interior or Vancouver Island.
Mazda has also redesigned the door openings to be larger, making it easier to load children, groceries, and gear without awkward angles. The 2026 CX-5's cabin will feel more spacious without increasing the vehicle's overall footprint significantly.
Cargo Space Gains for British Columbia Families
The 2025 CX-5 provides 955 mm of cargo length from the rear seat to the liftgate. Mazda's announcement confirms the 2026 model adds almost two inches (approximately 50 mm) of cargo length and over an inch (26+ mm) of height. The lift-in height also drops by more than half an inch (14+ mm), making it easier to load heavy items like Costco runs, camping gear, or sports equipment.
Here's how the cargo improvements translate to everyday use:
- Grocery runs: More room for bulk purchases from Costco, Superstore, or Save-On-Foods. The lower lift-in height reduces strain when loading heavy bags or cases of water.
- Camping trips: Additional length accommodates longer items like tents, sleeping bags, and coolers without cramping rear passengers.
- Sports equipment: Hockey bags, ski gear, and bike equipment fit more easily with the extra vertical clearance.
- Road trips to the Interior: The expanded cargo area holds luggage for multiple passengers without requiring a roof box.
The 2026 CX-5's cargo improvements make it more practical for families who use their SUV for both daily errands and weekend adventures across British Columbia.
How the 2026 CX-5 Compares to Competitors
The 2026 CX-5's 2,812 mm wheelbase positions it ahead of several competitors in the compact SUV segment:
|
Model |
Wheelbase |
Rear Legroom |
|---|---|---|
|
2026 Mazda CX-5 |
2,812 mm |
Increased (TBD) |
|
2025 Toyota RAV4 |
2,690 mm |
963 mm |
|
2025 Honda CR-V |
2,700 mm |
1,029 mm |
|
2025 Nissan Rogue |
2,705 mm |
985 mm |
The 2026 CX-5 will offer one of the longest wheelbases in its class, giving it a spaciousness advantage over established competitors. The extra room benefits families who prioritize rear-seat comfort and cargo flexibility.
Trim Options and Features for 2026
Mazda has not yet announced full trim details for the 2026 CX-5, but the redesigned model will include:
- New 15.6-inch touchscreen: The largest infotainment display ever offered in a Mazda vehicle, with Google built-in for navigation, voice control, and app integration.
- Improved safety systems: Enhanced driver assistance features building on the CX-5's IIHS Top Safety Pick+ legacy.
- 2.5-litre engine: The 2026 CX-5 will launch with a 187-horsepower 4-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and standard i-Activ AWD.
- Hybrid option coming in 2027: Mazda will introduce a new SkyActiv-Z hybrid powertrain in 2027, offering improved fuel economy and performance.
The 2026 CX-5 maintains the design philosophy that made it Mazda's best-selling model in Canada, with over 300,000 units sold since 2012. The dimensional upgrades make it more competitive with larger SUVs while keeping it manageable for urban British Columbia driving.
Availability and Next Steps
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 will go on sale in Spring 2026. Families in British Columbia who need more space but want to avoid the size and cost of a three-row SUV will find the 2026 CX-5's dimensional upgrades address practical needs. The extra 114 mm of wheelbase delivers measurable improvements in rear legroom and cargo capacity without compromising urban maneuverability.
Reserve Your 2026 CX-5 at Metrotown Mazda
The 2026 Mazda CX-5's dimensional upgrades make it a stronger choice for families across British Columbia. Visit Metrotown Mazda in Burnaby to learn more about the redesigned model, explore expected trim options, and secure your place in line for Spring 2026 delivery. Contact our sales team today to discuss how the extra space fits your family's needs.
