Shopping for a new SUV in Pottstown means wading through tons of options, and the 2026 Mazda CX-5 throws five different trim levels at you. They range from no-nonsense daily drivers to models that brush up against luxury territory. The trick is figuring out what each one actually offers. Here’s what’s great: every single trim gives you Mazda’s excellent driving feel and comes standard with all-wheel drive. But features, looks, and tech vary quite a bit as you move up the lineup. At John Kennedy Mazda Pottstown, we’ll help you cut through the noise.
What’s New for the 2026 Mazda CX-5 Lineup
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 shows up with some serious updates that boost both space and technology. Mazda stretched the wheelbase and overall length by 4.5 inches, which directly means more rear legroom, kneeroom, and headroom. Cargo space grows too, plus they lowered the lift-in height so loading gear doesn’t wreck your back.
Every 2026 CX-5 now comes with standard i-ACTIV AWD, giving you solid year-round grip whether you’re dealing with winter weather between Pottstown and Philadelphia or tackling backroads around Reading. The tech upgrades really shine. Even base trims get a 12.9-inch infotainment screen with Google built-in and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims jump to a massive 15.6-inch display. These changes make the 2026 CX-5 a much stronger choice for families who want practicality but don’t want to sacrifice driving fun.
2026 Mazda CX-5 Trim Levels at a Glance
All five 2026 CX-5 trims use the same engine setup: a 2.5-liter SKYACTIV-G four-cylinder making 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, connected to a six-speed automatic transmission. While other manufacturers chase turbocharged options, Mazda focused this 2026 redesign on space, technology, and making everything more refined across the board.
Here’s the breakdown:
| Trim Level | Wheels | Infotainment | Key Features |
| 2.5 S | 17-inch alloy | 12.9-inch display, Google built-in | Base value, standard AWD, i-Activsense safety |
| 2.5 S Select | Standard | Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | Leatherette seats, dual-zone climate, heated mirrors |
| 2.5 S Preferred | 19-inch | Power liftgate | Leather seats, Bose audio, power moonroof |
| 2.5 S Premium | Standard | Standard i-Activsense | Premium features, sporty design elements |
| 2.5 S Premium Plus | Standard | 15.6-inch display, advanced driver assistance | 12-speaker Bose, panoramic moonroof, hands-free liftgate, leather seats |
Getting these differences straight helps you zero in on which setup actually matches what you need.
Entry-Level Trims: 2.5 S, Select, and Preferred
The first three trims handle the essentials without getting fancy. These models stick to what matters, perfect for Trappe and Royersford commuters, families just starting out, and anyone watching their budget but still wanting solid quality.
2.5 S — Smart Value for Everyday Driving
The base 2.5 S shows that entry-level doesn’t have to mean stripped down. You get Mazda’s full i-Activsense safety package: automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. The 12.9-inch screen comes with Google built-in, so your phone connects seamlessly without cable mess. Automatic headlights, keyless entry, and dual-zone climate control cover the daily basics.
Cloth seats keep things comfortable for your Philadelphia commute without trying to be luxurious. The 2.5 S makes perfect sense if you see your car as reliable transportation first and consider anything beyond safety and connectivity to be nice-to-haves rather than necessities.
2.5 S Select — Comfort Upgrades That Matter
Jump to the Select trim and comfort becomes the main focus. Leatherette seats replace cloth, giving you easier cleanup and a more upscale look (great for families with kids). The eight-way power driver’s seat lets you fine-tune your position exactly how you want it. Heated mirrors clear frost fast during winter.
The Select works well for people who log serious hours behind the wheel and understand that comfort directly affects how much you enjoy driving. Whether you’re heading to Reading for work or running errands around Sanatoga, these upgrades make every trip better without crossing into luxury pricing.
2.5 S Preferred — Technology and Style Step-Up
The Preferred trim boosts both technology and appearance. A power moonroof floods the cabin with natural light, making everything feel more spacious. The Bose premium sound system delivers genuinely better audio quality, turning your commute into something you actually look forward to. Real leather replaces leatherette, providing better texture and lasting quality.
Those 19-inch wheels make the exterior look sharper while keeping the ride smooth. A power liftgate helps when you’re juggling groceries or cargo. The Preferred offers solid value for drivers who want enhanced features without paying for top-tier everything. Better infotainment capabilities round out the package, creating clear benefits over the Select.
Premium Trims: 2.5 S Premium and Premium Plus
The top two trims focus on style, luxury touches, and advanced technology. These versions appeal to buyers who see their vehicle as part of their personal style and expect premium details in everyday use.
2.5 S Premium — Refined Style and Enhanced Features
The Premium trim builds on what the Preferred offers with extra refinements that make ownership more enjoyable. Sporty design cues set it apart visually, while premium interior materials improve the feel of everything you touch regularly. Advanced features typically include integrated navigation, enhanced driver assistance tech, and upgraded exterior lighting.
This trim fits professionals and smaller families who want a sophisticated daily driver without the cost of the top model. The Premium strikes a good balance between upscale touches and reasonable pricing, making it popular with buyers who appreciate quality but keep an eye on their budget.
2.5 S Premium Plus — The Ultimate CX-5 Experience
The Premium Plus represents everything we can offer in the CX-5 lineup. That huge 15.6-inch touchscreen commands attention from the dashboard, giving you excellent visibility for navigation and vehicle settings. The 12-speaker Bose system creates truly immersive sound with speakers positioned throughout the cabin. A panoramic moonroof extends the overhead view for both front and rear passengers, dramatically opening up the interior space.
Genuine leather with premium stitching covers all the seats. The driver gets additional power adjustments including lumbar support for those longer trips. Heated rear seats keep second-row passengers comfortable during winter drives. A hands-free power liftgate opens with just a foot motion when your hands are full. Advanced parking aids and a 360-degree camera system make tight Pottstown parking spots much easier to handle.
The Premium Plus combines everything Mazda knows about building driver-focused vehicles, wrapping that refined performance in luxury appointments that compete with dedicated premium brands. This trim targets buyers who looked at luxury competitors but prefer Mazda’s driving dynamics and overall value.
Choosing the Right 2026 Mazda CX-5 Trim for Your Lifestyle
Your trim choice should start with honest thinking about what actually matters in your daily driving. Here’s how different lifestyles match up with specific trims:
Daily commuters between Pottstown and Philadelphia do well with the 2.5 S or Select. Both deliver efficient performance, essential safety tech, and the connectivity you actually need. The Select adds heated seats and leatherette that make longer drives more comfortable.
Highway travelers who regularly drive to Philadelphia or farther should look at the Preferred or Premium Plus. The Bose sound, larger screens, and moonroof make extended trips more enjoyable. Advanced driver assistance features cut down fatigue on long stretches.
Growing families love the Preferred’s leather seats and power liftgate for easier loading. The extra cargo space in the 2026 redesign fits sports equipment, strollers, and weekend adventure gear. The Premium Plus adds rear heated seats and hands-free liftgate convenience.
Empty nesters and professionals often choose the Premium Plus for its near-luxury amenities. The refined interior creates a pleasant environment for daily errands and dinner outings, while advanced technology simplifies parking and navigation.
Think about how you actually use your vehicle rather than how you imagine using it. The Mazda SUV lineup has options for every situation, but the CX-5 hits that sweet spot of size, capability, and efficiency for most Southeastern Pennsylvania drivers.
Experience the 2026 Mazda CX-5 at John Kennedy Mazda Pottstown
The real way to figure out which 2026 CX-5 trim fits your needs is getting behind the wheel. At our Pottstown dealership, we keep inventory across all trim levels, so you can compare features side-by-side and feel the differences through actual test drives. Our team helps customers throughout Montgomery County and the Delaware Valley find their perfect match.
We’re a family-owned dealership that’s been serving the community since 2007, building relationships with customers who trust us for both buying cars and keeping them running. Our factory-trained sales professionals understand local driving needs, whether you’re dealing with winter weather, commuting to Philadelphia, or exploring backroads around Reading.
Explore our CX-5 inventory online, then come see our showroom at 3199 West Ridge Pike in Pottstown. Schedule a test drive by calling 484-369-6508. Our finance team provides comprehensive options for various budgets, making the move from browsing to ownership straightforward. Find out why so many drivers pick John Kennedy Mazda Pottstown and discover the 2026 CX-5 trim that matches your lifestyle perfectly.
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