2026 Mazda CX-5 GT: 5 Reasons Why It’s British Columbia’s Favourite Compact SUV

Mazda’s CX-5 has long stood as the brand’s best-selling vehicle in Canada, and the all-new third-generation model raises the bar further with a longer wheelbase, a more refined cabin, and a GT trim that adds nearly every feature a compact SUV buyer could want. Being 4.5 inches longer than the outgoing model, with almost all of that added length going into the wheelbase, the new CX-5 also brings noticeably more rear seat and cargo room than the model it replaces.

For drivers who split their time between city streets, highway drives, and the occasional gravel road, the 2026 CX-5 GT is built to handle all three without compromise. Here are five reasons the GT trim stands out as the version of the CX-5 worth serious consideration.

1. A Cabin Focused on Comfort

The CX-5 GT steps up to black leather-trimmed upholstery with ventilated front seats and heated rear outboard seats, both adjustable across three positions. An illuminated glove box, front foot lamps, overhead lighting, and front door ambient lighting with selectable colours round out a cabin that feels considered rather than basic. Two rear USB-C charging ports keep passengers connected on longer drives.

2. Sound That Fills the Cabin Properly

A Bose Premium Sound System with 12 speakers comes standard on the GT, built around Perceptual Sound Rendering, Centerpoint 2 Surround Technology, BassSync, and AudioPilot 3. Paired with AM/FM/HD radio and a three-month complimentary SiriusXM 360L subscription, it’s a system built for people who care about how their music actually sounds.

3. Confidence-Inspiring All-Wheel Drive and Real Towing Capacity

Every CX-5 GT comes standard with i-Activ All-Wheel Drive, the system Mazda has spent years refining for Canadian roads and weather. Behind the wheel, the 2.5-litre SkyActiv-G four-cylinder engine produces 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The lineup is also rated to tow up to 680 kg (1,500 lb), useful for a small trailer, watercraft, or a load of gear for a weekend trip.

4. Technology That Keeps the Driver Focused

The GT includes an Adaptive Front-lighting System that adjusts lighting to match the road ahead, along with LED front and rear signature lighting and the full CX-5 safety suite. Owners who choose the GT Premium Package add a 15.6-inch full-colour touchscreen, Driver Monitoring, and Cruise and Traffic Support with Lane Change Support, which assists with steering and acceleration during driver-initiated lane changes at highway speeds between 70 and 140 km/h. The same package brings Smart Brake Support with Front Cross Traffic Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Braking, and a 360° View Monitor with See-Through, underfloor, parking, and side views, useful for tight parkades or narrow driveways. The Driver Personalization System rounds things out, using facial recognition to recall a driver’s preferred seat, mirror, and steering wheel position automatically.

5. Google Built-in for Natural, Hands-Free Control

The CX-5 GT comes with Google built-in, giving drivers access to the Gemini AI assistant for hands-free control without needing to memorize specific commands. Google Maps brings live traffic and place information directly into the dash, and the Google Play Store opens up a curated selection of in-vehicle apps.

Comparing the CX-5 GT Packages

Your 2026 CX-5 GT Is Waiting

Visit the team at Wolfe Mazda in Surrey to see the 2026 CX-5 GT in person and find the package that fits how you actually drive.