Mazda is leveling up the driving experience with the upcoming 2026 CX-5, and this time the focus is on smarter technology and better driver comfort. The company announced that the new model will come loaded with Google Built-In and Google’s powerful Gemini AI, giving drivers more hands-free control than ever before. The goal is simple: help drivers stay focused on the road while still enjoying all the modern features they expect.

A Smarter Interior Built Around the Driver

Mazda has always cared about making cars that feel good to drive, and the 2026 CX-5 continues that mindset. Even though touchscreens and digital controls are becoming more common in cars, Mazda knows drivers still like having some physical buttons they can feel without looking away from the road.

Inside the 2026 CX-5, you’ll find new steering-wheel buttons with raised, easy-to-identify shapes. These buttons handle your usual infotainment controls, let you switch through different display pages on the dashboard screen, and allow quick access to features like Mi-Drive modes, adaptive cruise control, and the 360-degree camera system.

New Digital Displays Everywhere

One of the biggest upgrades is the 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, which now comes standard on every trim. It shows clearer driving information, including detailed visuals of nearby vehicles through Mazda’s ADAS safety system. This makes it easier for drivers to understand what the car is detecting around them.

Mazda also offers a new head-up display (HUD) that is 122% larger than last year’s version. This upgraded HUD can show road signs, navigation, speed, and other helpful data’right in the driver’s line of sight’without forcing them to flip through menus. See more Photos

Two New Touchscreens: 12.9-inch or 15.6-inch

Buyers will be able to choose between two new, large infotainment screens: a 12.9-inch version or a huge 15.6-inch version. Mazda says these are segment-exclusive sizes for this class of SUV.

Because the screens are now touch-based, Mazda removed the old center-console “commander knob,” which reduces how far drivers need to move their hands. Interestingly, both screens are designed with the same lower-left anchor point, meaning the viewing angle stays consistent regardless of which size you choose.

Google Built-In Comes Standard

One of the most exciting updates is that Google Built-In will be standard on all 2026 CX-5 models. This means:

• You can sign into your Google account directly in the car
  
• Google Maps syncs between your phone, laptop, and vehicle
  
• Apps from the Google Play Store can be installed right in the infotainment system
  
• You don’t need your phone to use navigation or apps’but Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are still available
  

For example, if you search for directions on your computer at home, the route can automatically appear in your CX-5 once you sign in.

Gemini AI Brings Natural Voice Control

With Google Built-In comes Google’s latest Gemini AI, which gives the CX-5 much smarter voice controls. Instead of using robotic commands, drivers can simply use natural, everyday speech to:

• Adjust climate settings
  
• Change volume
  
• Pick a radio station
  
• Ask for vehicle information
  
• Get navigation help
  
• Look up general questions
  

Just say “Hey Google” to start a request. This should reduce distractions and let drivers keep their hands on the wheel more often.

Release Date and Price Still Coming

Mazda has not yet announced the exact release date or pricing for the 2026 CX-5, but the company is expected to reveal both soon. With all the new tech improvements inside the cabin, it’s clear Mazda is aiming to make the CX-5 one of the most advanced compact SUVs in its class.

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