I was very excited to hear about the arrival of the 2026 Mazda CX-5. Unfortunately, my excitement didn’t last for long when I found out that the physical audio, infotainment, and climate controls are no longer available in the 2026 CX-5.
My family is also a huge fan of Mazda vehicles, owning a Mazda6 and CX-9. The reasons they choose Mazda are its longstanding reputation for tractable, driver-focused interiors and controls.
They also got upset after hearing about the absence of physical controls. That’s why I feel that Mazda’s decision to shift towards touchscreen-only controls in the new CX-5 will backfire on them.
But as we’re living in a world where almost everyone is turning into techies, this move could be a necessary evolution to keep pace with tech-savvy competitors. Time will tell whether this decision will become an evolution or just a step in the wrong direction.
Today, in this article, I’ll share what Mazda fans feel about this new change in the 2026 CX-5. Will there be a sales backlash from would-be buyers?
The New Infotainment System
The biggest update in the new 2026 Mazda CX-5 is made to the infotainment system. There is a 12.9-inch standard, 15.6-inch optional touchscreen display, incorporating climate and audio functions, replacing the physical controls for which Mazda has been known.
This size of touchscreen display is the biggest one ever fitted into a Mazda.
The new infotainment system is now Google-based rather than being an old-school Mazda operating system, which was criticized as being overly simplistic.
There will be a Google Assistant for voice commands, providing improved accuracy and a better user experience.
You can also have access to the Google Play Store inside your car.
What Change has Disappointed Mazda Fans?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 has become a hot topic these days, especially among loyal Mazda fans like me. While everyone is excited about what’s new coming to the 2026 CX-5, the loyal fan base is disappointed by the changes.
Digitizing everything is the biggest change in the new Mazda CX-5, but it might not be an improvement. Mazda is known for its attractive, well-made, and easy-to-operate physical audio, infotainment, and climate controls.
The climate controls in previous Mazda CX-5 model years consisted of two knurled metallic knobs that flanked a digital screen.
It was one of the easiest systems to use while driving. These model years also come with a Commander rotary control knob between the seats that makes the touchscreen unnecessary, as you could rotate, toggle, and press it to activate functions.
This control knob is no longer available in the 2026 CX-5 model. Now, from audio settings to climate control, everything is managed through the touch screen. Only three physical buttons are left for defrost, defog, and hazard lights.
As a loyal Mazda fan, this change seems unnecessary.
Mazda Faces Backlash Over 2026 CX-5 Touchscreen-Only Controls
Mazda is facing a huge backlash for replacing physical controls with touchscreens in the 2026 CX-5. Forums are filled with criticisms from current Mazda owners, who even refused to upgrade to the 2026 CX-5.
While some are viewing this change as a necessary evolution to keep pace in this tech world, others, especially brand loyalists, view this as a huge mistake.
In Mazda’s previous infotainment system, the touchscreen inputs were disabled as a safety precaution. Instead, it relied on the rotary controller and steering wheel controls.
With the controller now removed in the 2026 CX-5, only being able to use the touchscreen when the car is parked could frustrate drivers.
Why Drivers Still Prefer Knobs Over Screens?
According to Autoblog, various consumer studies and feedback reflect an overwhelming preference for physical controls over touchscreen controls. The major reason behind this is that touchscreens demand more attention than knobs or switches, which are easier to locate and control.
When you’re using touchscreen controls while driving, you have to take your eyes off the road and onto the screen, and there’s still no guarantee that you’ll hit what you’re aiming for.
Balancing Innovation with Safety: Will Mazda Reintroduce Physical Buttons?
Mazda claimed that it will continue with its drive-centric focus by providing an enhanced voice command experience. According to recent statistics, around 17% of American drivers prefer using voice commands, and this percentage will grow in the upcoming years.
The automaker also claimed they are heading towards the path of better software integration, faster response times, and smarter features through Google’s connected services.
With this, Mazda also keeps pace with its tech-savvy competitors, like Volvo, Honda, and GM. However, beginning in 2026, the European Car Safety assessment program will begin docking safety points for vehicles that fail to provide physical buttons for climate control and hazard lights.
In this case, Mazda has to reintroduce some driver-centric elements to maintain strong safety ratings in Europe and North America.
Other Potential Changes to the 2026 Mazda CX-5
Apart from the infotainment system, there are also other potential changes made to the new 2026 Mazda CX-5. Outside, there is an updated Kodo design and the enhanced styling language.
The redesign is mostly subtle and covers the radiator grille, headlights, and taillights. The branding “MAZDA” is scripted on the tailgate and the steering wheel instead of the winged badge seen at the front.
Mazda has ensured the new CX-5 will be a stylish and sophisticated urban CUV for the United States market. Thankfully, there will be more space in the second row compared to the previous models.
The larger rear doors will make it easier to get in and out of the CUV. Now, let’s get under the hood. There, the company plays it safe and quirky. They installed the same 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engine as the 2025 CX-5 has.
The engine produces 187 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. There is also an old-school 6-speed automatic transmission and standard All-wheel drive.
Last but not least, the new 2026 CX-5 will have 19-inch wheels for the first time, dressed in black for added visual flair.
Wrapping Up
As a Mazda loyalist, I do not support the change. I’m the old-school type of person and love to control knobs and switches in my Mazda car. But somewhere in my mind, I feel change is necessary in this world.
As we are living in a world where everyone is turning into techies, a car company replacing physical controls with touchscreen controls is normal. Now, the new 2026 Mazda CX-5 is undoubtedly more connected and feature-rich.
It offers better voice control through Google Assistant, allowing drivers to manage tasks by just speaking.
Many Mazda current owners have criticized this upgrade because they are emotionally attached to the old physical controls.
If they want to upgrade to the 2026 CX-5, they just have to learn the new system and lose tactile feedback. However, the fully digital experience might be short-lived due to customer pushback and safety concerns.
Once a few cars are running on the road, I’ll be able to give a full review of the 2026 Mazda CX-5.
Curious about which older Mazda CX-5 models are worth buying? Don’t miss our in-depth guide on the Mazda CX-5 years to avoid.
Sources: Autoblog, autoevolution, Mazda
