Used Mazda CX-5 for sale near Cheltenham

CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.4 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 30.7%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.3 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 700
Average Price: Around £17,000

Mazda CX-5 (2026) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Good ride comfort	No hybrid or plug-in hybrid options
Roomy and practical interior	Engine lacks a bit of power
Handles well for an SUV	Over-reliance on touchscreen for some core controls

Quick Summary

The Mazda CX-5 (2026) is a family-favourite SUV that represents a fine evolution of its predecessor. Measuring nearly 4.7 metres long, it positions itself at the larger end of the family SUV sector, offering exceptional interior space and practicality. The redesigned interior features a modern touchscreen with Google built-in infotainment, premium soft-touch materials, and significantly improved rear-seat legroom (up 64mm) and boot space (now 583 litres). The 2.5-litre petrol engine delivers 139bhp with a smooth, naturally aspirated feel, though it requires more revs than turbocharged rivals and produces higher CO2 emissions.

The CX-5 retains Mazda's engaging driving dynamics, with precise steering, confident handling, and a more compliant ride than previous generations. Real-world fuel economy is expected around 35mpg in everyday conditions, with the non-turbocharged engine promising excellent long-term reliability. Available in four trim levels (Prime-Line, Centre-Line, Exclusive-Line, and Homura) with front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive options, the CX-5 appeals to loyal Mazda customers and those seeking a practical, well-engineered family SUV. However, the lack of hybrid options and modest power output may disappoint some buyers comparing it to more modern rivals.

Best for: Mazda loyalists, families seeking a spacious and practical SUV with engaging handling, and buyers prioritising ride comfort and interior quality over raw performance.

Not ideal for: Those requiring hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrains, drivers seeking maximum performance and responsiveness, or buyers wanting extensive physical controls for climate and safety settings.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the CX-5 if: You're a Mazda loyalist, seeking a spacious and practical family SUV with engaging handling, or prioritising ride comfort and interior quality over raw performance.

Consider alternatives if: You require hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrains, seek maximum performance and responsiveness, or prefer extensive physical controls for climate and safety settings.

Competitive Position: The Mazda CX-5 (2026) is a strong contender in the family SUV market, offering exceptional practicality, engaging dynamics, and premium interior quality. Whilst the Kia Sportage edges ahead with a five-star expert rating and the Volkswagen Tiguan impresses with user satisfaction, the CX-5 holds its own with superior ride comfort and handling finesse. The lack of hybrid options and modest power output are notable drawbacks compared to more electrified rivals, but the CX-5's proven reliability, spacious interior, and distinctive driving character make it an excellent choice for those valuing substance over trend-chasing technology.

Read our full Mazda CX-5 Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from May 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.