Sales: 579-218-0250
Collision Centre: 514-636-8750
Service: 579-218-0250
Parts: 579-218-0250
Book Service Appointement: 579-218-0250
Compact SUV shoppers often land on two names that have earned loyal followings in Canada: the all-new third-generation 2026 Mazda CX-5 and the 2026 Jeep Compass. Both seat five, both come with all-wheel traction as standard equipment, and both aim at buyers who want a practical, year-round vehicle with room to spare.
This comparison looks at how the redesigned CX-5 lines up against the Compass on the things most buyers use every day: the cabin, the technology, comfort and space, and the driving experience. Here is how the two stack up.
| Feature | 2026 Mazda CX-5 | 2026 Jeep Compass |
| Centre display and connected tech | 12.9-inch standard, 15.6-inch available, Google built-in with Gemini assistant | Uconnect with SiriusXM 360L |
| Premium audio | 12-speaker Bose Premium Sound System (GT) | Up to 9 speakers |
| Wireless smartphone integration | Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (GS and up) | Apple CarPlay and Android Auto |
| Standard drivetrain | i-Activ all-wheel drive | 4×4 |
| Engine | 2.5L SkyActiv-G inline-four | 2.0L turbocharged inline-four |
| Seating | 5 | 5 |
The CX-5 puts one of the larger and more modern interfaces in the segment in front of the driver, with technology built around voice control and a phone-like layout.
The Compass answers with the Uconnect system and a SiriusXM 360L subscription, which covers the basics. For buyers who lean on voice control and a large, phone-like screen, the CX-5 simply gives more to work with.
The third-generation CX-5 grew where it counts. It is 114 mm longer than the model it replaces, and almost all of that length went into the wheelbase, which opens up rear-seat room and cargo space for passengers and gear. Mazda also worked to quiet the cabin, so road and wind noise stay in the background on the highway.
Material choices carry the same care. Higher trims add black leather-trimmed upholstery, ventilated front seats, heated rear outboard seats, and front door ambient lighting with selectable colours. A heated steering wheel arrives at the GS trim, with a power liftgate and a 10-way power driver’s seat with memory close behind. The cabin is set up for long drives and short errands alike.
Under the hood, the CX-5 uses Mazda’s 2.5L SkyActiv-G inline-four, rated at 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic and standard i-Activ all-wheel drive. The tuning favours smooth, predictable response from a stop and steady power on the highway, all on regular 87-octane fuel. Mi-Drive lets the driver pick Normal, Sport or Off-Road modes to suit the conditions.
For light hauling, the CX-5 carries a towing rating of 1,500 lbs (680 kg), enough for a small utility trailer, a pair of personal watercraft, or a teardrop camper. G-Vectoring Control Plus now adds an electronic brake limited-slip differential to help the CX-5 stay composed on slippery roads and winding routes.
Mazda continues to lead the industry on safety. For 2026, the brand earned eight IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ awards, the most of any automaker and the third year running it has topped the field.
Every CX-5 carries this i-Activsense suite as standard equipment, along with front and rear parking sensors and a rearview camera that includes a tow hitch guide.
Most compact SUV buyers spend their time commuting, running errands, road-tripping and carrying family and gear. That is where the CX-5 is built to shine. Its larger available 15.6-inch screen, Google built-in voice tech, available 12-speaker Bose audio, quieter and roomier cabin, and Mazda’s safety record all line up with how people actually use a vehicle like this day to day.
If your week is mostly pavement, passengers and the occasional light trailer, the 2026 CX-5 handles it with comfort, technology and a safety pedigree that are easy to live with.
Ready to compare these two in person? Visit Planète Mazda in Mirabel to explore the 2026 Mazda CX-5, sit in the cabin, and book a test drive to experience its technology and comfort on the road.
SAVE UP TO $175 ON FOUR NEW TIRES DURING THE MAZDA SPRING TIRE EVENT*
SAVE UP TO $175 ON FOUR NEW TIRES DURING THE MAZDA SPRING TIRE EVENT*
