No Stacking Configurations, Just Pursuing Handling! The 2026 Mazda CX-5 will Upgrade its Chassis and Steering

[PCauto] In today's automotive market, many models are focusing on screen sizes and various driving assistance configurations because it gives the impression that the more features are packed, the higher the perceived sophistication.

However, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 takes the opposite approach, making no visible upgrades to its configuration but instead focusing on areas that best embody the essence of driving, with upgrades to the chassis suspension and steering system.

We know that the CX-5, as a family SUV, has always been known for its drivability and is already recognized as one of the best-handling models in its class.

With this upgrade, Mazda has not altered the core nature of this vehicle but instead enhanced its original driving traits based on its existing strengths.

So, to make a car easier to drive, the core lies in the chassis and suspension. For this upgrade, Mazda directly borrowed the concept from its own sports car, the MX-5.

The MX-5 is famously easy to drive, with flexible handling that doesn’t feel stiff. The balance between not too soft and not too hard is exactly what the CX-5 is aiming to achieve this time.

In terms of suspension, the new car plans to use better shock absorbers. Although the cost is significantly higher than the older model, the advantage is that it delivers a more stable driving experience.

For example, with superior shock absorbers, when crossing speed bumps or driving on bumpy roads, the car body won’t wobble excessively, and it absorbs vibrations comfortably. When taking high-speed corners or changing lanes, the car maintains stability without feeling too floaty, ensuring a good travel experience for both the driver and passengers.

Additionally, the steering has been optimized, and Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control (GVC) has been adjusted to feel more intuitive.

In simple terms, when you turn the steering wheel, the car automatically makes slight power adjustments to make the vehicle's center of gravity more reasonable and the steering more responsive.

It is also worth mentioning that the electric power steering has been adjusted, making steering lighter and more precise, allowing you to clearly feel the road conditions, which makes driving safer.

But honestly, in this era of pursuing technology, while other brands keep adding screens and various automatic features, Mazda is wholeheartedly focused on optimizing the chassis instead of indulging in flashy gimmicks. However, for people who love driving, this kind of upgrade is indeed more practical.