Mazda has been one of the last holdouts in the car industry when it comes to physical controls. Its rotary dial infotainment controller, introduced back in 2014, became a hallmark of the brand's commitment to minimising driver distraction. That era is ending. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 will arrive with a 15.6-inch touchscreen and no rotary dial.
For the hundreds of thousands of Australian CX-5 owners, this is a significant shift.
What's Happening
The next-generation CX-5, expected to arrive in Australia around mid-2026, represents the biggest interior overhaul Mazda has undertaken in over a decade. The familiar rotary controller is gone. Physical climate control buttons are gone. In their place sits Mazda's largest-ever touchscreen at 15.6 inches, up from 10.25 inches in the outgoing model.
Mazda's project manager for in-vehicle technologies, Matthew Valbuena, has said the change was driven by the sheer number of apps and connected features that modern buyers expect. A single rotary dial simply couldn't navigate that volume of functionality efficiently. He emphasised that Mazda's goal of minimising driver distraction remains unchanged, even though the approach is different.
The US-market CX-5 will feature Google Built-in with embedded Google Maps and Google Assistant, though Mazda Australia hasn't confirmed whether Australian models will receive the same treatment.
This shift is expected to roll across the broader Mazda lineup. Valbuena indicated that consumer demand will push the touchscreen-first approach into other models over time. The upcoming electric CX-6e will reportedly feature an even larger screen.
What This Means for Buyers
If you're a current CX-5 owner who loves the existing control layout, this is worth paying attention to. The next-generation model will feel fundamentally different to operate on the inside, even if the exterior styling and driving dynamics remain familiar.
For buyers who've been frustrated by Mazda's inconsistent infotainment approach across its range (some models had touch, some didn't, some only had touch for CarPlay), the new CX-5 should bring welcome clarity. One large touchscreen handling everything is simpler to understand, even if it's a departure from what made Mazda's cabin feel distinctive.
The move also puts Mazda in direct competition with the likes of Hyundai, Kia and Toyota on in-car technology. Previous CX-5 buyers who felt the tech was falling behind rivals should find the new model more competitive on paper.
When to Buy
If you prefer the current CX-5's physical controls and rotary dial, now is the time to act. Outgoing CX-5 stock will attract progressively sharper pricing as the new model's arrival date approaches. Dealers will be motivated to clear current inventory, particularly in the three to six months before the new generation lands.
Expect the strongest deals on outgoing CX-5s around March to June 2026, as dealers work to reduce their ageing stock ahead of the new model's mid-year arrival.
If you want the new model, waiting until late 2026 is the smarter play. First-batch pricing on new-generation models is typically firm, with little room for negotiation. Discounts tend to appear once initial demand settles and dealers have floor stock available for immediate delivery.
How to Use This to Your Advantage
For outgoing CX-5 stock, get quotes from multiple Mazda dealers through Carseekers. Dealers clearing old stock are incentivised to move units quickly, and competing offers from different dealerships will drive the price down.
If you're waiting for the new model, register your interest with your preferred dealer early. Early expressions of interest can sometimes secure priority delivery windows, particularly if the new CX-5 generates strong demand.
Consider test-driving a current CX-5 alongside a competitor with a large touchscreen, like the Hyundai Tucson or Kia Sportage. If you find that you genuinely prefer physical controls, buying the outgoing CX-5 at a discount could be the smarter financial decision.
Final Word
Mazda's move to a touchscreen-first interior in the CX-5 is a sign of the times. Whether you embrace it or mourn the loss of the rotary dial, the transition creates opportunities for buyers on both sides. Outgoing stock will be discounted. New stock will be more technologically competitive. Either way, you're in a stronger position than usual.
Considering finance for your next car? Loanseekers can help you explore car loan options.
The finer details
Your questions answered.
Does the 2026 Mazda CX-5 have a rotary dial or touchscreen?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 replaces the rotary dial infotainment controller with a 15.6-inch touchscreen. This is the end of Mazda's signature distraction-minimisation approach to infotainment. Buyers who preferred the rotary system should test drive the new touchscreen setup before committing.
Is the 2026 Mazda CX-5 touchscreen easy to use while driving?
Touchscreen systems require taking your eyes off the road to operate compared to a rotary dial that can be operated by feel. The quality of the new CX-5 touchscreen's responsiveness, menu depth, and Apple CarPlay integration will determine whether this is a minor or major usability compromise. Test it thoroughly on a proper test drive.
How does the 2026 Mazda CX-5 infotainment compare to Toyota RAV4 and Hyundai Tucson?
Most competitors already moved to large touchscreens several years before Mazda. The 15.6-inch screen is larger than the RAV4's 10.5-inch and comparable to the Tucson's 10.25-inch. Mazda's execution quality will determine whether the change is an improvement — early reviews from international markets suggest the response time is competitive.
Does the 2026 Mazda CX-5 have wireless Apple CarPlay?
The 2026 CX-5 includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Check whether wireless or wired connectivity is standard on the specific Australian grade you are considering, as wireless projection is typically limited to higher trims in the range. Confirm with your Mazda dealer before signing.
Will the 2026 Mazda CX-5 touchscreen get over-the-air updates?
Mazda has been expanding over-the-air update capability across its newer models. Whether the 2026 CX-5 supports OTA updates in Australia will depend on the local specification. Check this with your dealer, as it has a meaningful impact on how the infotainment evolves over your ownership period.
Should I buy the current CX-5 before the touchscreen model arrives?
If you strongly prefer physical controls and the rotary dial, the current generation CX-5 is your last chance to buy new. Runout models typically attract strong discounts as dealers clear stock. However, the 2026 model is otherwise a significantly improved car, so prioritise the rotary preference only if it is genuinely important to your daily use.
