Mazda introduced its "Kodo" design language in 2010 with the debut of the stunning Shinari concept. From that point on, every production Mazda for the next 15 years would use that concept as its template—from the Miata sports car to the CX-90 SUV.
The arrival of the 2026 CX-5, though, tweaks that formula slightly. Mazda's best-selling SUV wears an evolved version of the automaker's signature Kodo design language, complete with a new stacked headlight treatment, updated taillights, and a fresh "MAZDA" logo wordmark.
Speaking with Stefan Meisterfeld, VP of Strategic Planning for Mazda North America, he notes that this updated look will, in part, inspire most Mazda products moving forward.
"I would say the new CX-5 is a pioneer of a slightly evolved design language," Meisterfeld tells Motor1. "Some elements of it you may see on future vehicles as well… It's our future direction. And yeah, you would see more of these elements in future vehicles."
It's not just the exterior, either. The CX-5 sports a 15.6-inch central touchscreen with a new minimalist interior design. It's the first Mazda product with the new touchscreen, and both the technology and the cabin design should make their way to more Mazda vehicles in the future.
Unfortunately, that's bad news for fans of Mazda's outgoing Commander controller. Mazda is ditching its rotary dial and moving most hard most controls—including the volume knob—to the steering wheel. Other functions will be managed via the center touchscreen.
The new Mazda CX-5 goes on sale later this year, but we'll have to wait a few months for pricing.
