The Mazda CX-5 is a sharp-looking and fun-to-drive compact SUV. 
There’s never been a question about that, and it’s true once again for the 2025 model year offering.

The question is whether to wait for a 2026 model, or pick up a 2025 model.

Read on to learn 5 things you need to know about the 2025 CX-5, which I recently tested, and some previews of what’s to come on the 2026 version of the CX-5, which is getting a major redesign that improves roominess, cargo space and tech features.

1. Upscale design, size will grow in 2026

One thing that Mazda has done in recent years is deliver a design that approaches luxury quality despite not being a luxury brand. Especially on the interiors, materials are of a quality that makes you feel like you’re in a much more expensive and upscale ride.

As the 2025 model year ends and the model prepares to launch in 2026, one change that we know is coming is that the CX-5 will be getting a bit longer, specifically gaining 4.5 inches in length. That’s a welcome bit of news, as any extra length is beneficial in the class of compact SUVs, where leg room is often hard to find in the back row. The current model is not super-tight, but I’ll always appreciate more space. And cargo space should also improve in 2026 due to the vehicle’s larger size.

Other exterior changes expected for 2026 include a 3-inch larger wheelbase, and an overall styling update that will draw inspiration from the looks of the larger CX-70 and CX-90 SUVs. Changes are coming to the lighting design, grille design and more. I was always a fan of the current generation of CX-5, but the updates promise an even sleeker and more stylish vehicle.

Whether you choose a 2025 or wait for the changes in 2026, you’ll be getting a vehicle that’s pleasing to the eye. And if you want for 2026, you’ll have a roomier interior.

While there are some people still skeptical of embracing the electric vehicle movement, there are plenty of folks who want to have one in their driveway, and a solid list of available EVs to help them achieve that goal.

Hyundai is among the companies that has embraced the electric movement, offering a strong lineup of EVs — including the excellent Ioniq 5 compact SUV, which I was recently able to spend some time with.

Read on to learn 5 things that you need to know about the Ioniq 5 to determine if it’s the right EV for you, as it battles other electric vehicles such as the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Volkswagen ID.4, Tesla Model Y, and Kia EV6.

1. Strong EV range, fast charging

Range on the Ioniq 5 will span from 245 miles (on base model) up to 318 miles (on RWD models in SE/SEL/Limited trims). AWD options land between 259 miles and 290 miles. The Ioniq 5’s numbers are competitive, as they are among the best you’ll find in this size of EV, limiting any range anxiety.

One reality check: Keep in mind that if you live in colder weather climates, cold temperatures can impact the actual distance and limit mileage of any EV you purchase.

Charging at home overnight with a Level 2 charger is the best option for any EV, but if you must charge publicly for any reason, the Ioniq 5 is compatible with the fast 350 kW public chargers that can get you from 10 percent to 80 percent in about 20 minutes, and is also compatible with Tesla superchargers.

As car buyers look for alternatives to fully electric vehicles that are still eco-friendly, plug-in hybrids are emerging as a popular choice — offering some electric range, but also strong fuel mileage when operating on fossil fuels.

Many automakers, including Kia, are now offering PHEV offerings among their SUV lineups, and I recently tested the 2025 Sorento plug-in hybrid (specifically a SX-Prestige AWD model).

The Sorento falls between the Sportage and Telluride in the Kia SUV lineup, and is a three-row SUV option that is smaller than the popular Telluride. It comes in gas, hybrid and plug-in hybrid options.

Updates have been made to both the inside and outside of the Sorento PHEV for 2025, and tech improvements are made, making this one of the stronger plug-in hybrid options for buyers in this segment to consider.

Read on for my full take on the Sorento PHEV and who might want to pick one up.

In the EV landscape, one area with a limited number of offerings to date is the three-row SUV. You have a few choices, but it’s not the smorgasbord of options you get with smaller EVs.

One brand not afraid to compete in this large EV category is Kia, which offers the Kia EV9, a three-row SUV that aims to deliver power, roominess and versatility, strong range and charging, and sharp design.

I recently tested a 2026 Kia EV9 GT-Line model, and can safely say that Kia has succeeded on all counts — arguably offering the best option in the category.

Competitors exist that each have their own strengths (including Hyundai Ioniq 9, Rivian R1S and Volvo EX90), but as an overall package it’s hard to top the EV9.

Read on for my full review of this fun and family-focused offering from Kia, which is now in its third year of production, and features new updates for 2026 such as compatibility with Tesla chargers.