The all-new Mazda CX-5 has won a Golden Steering Wheel 2026 award – one of Germany’s leading automotive awards. The editorial teams at automotive magazine AUTO BILD and BILD am Sonntag named the Japanese brand’s best-selling model “Best Car under €35,000”.
Explaining their decision, the editors said: “The Mazda CX-5 receives our editorial award for ‘Best Car under €35,000’ for its combination of generous space, everyday practicality and modern technology at a competitive price. The third generation provides significantly more room than its predecessor, a 583-litre boot and impressive ride comfort. An automatic transmission fitted as standard and modern Google integration in the cockpit complete the package.” This marks Mazda’s sixth Golden Steering Wheel award, following its most recent win with the Mazda CX-30 in 2019.
“The Golden Steering Wheel is a significant accolade, awarded by editorial teams who assess cars both against their competitors and in everyday driving. We are therefore delighted that the Mazda CX-5 has received this award,” said Kunihiro Shishima, Vice President and General Manager of the R&D and Design Center at Mazda Motor Europe in Oberursel, who accepted the award at the ceremony at the Axel Springer building in Berlin. “It also recognises the contribution of everyone in development and design in Japan and Europe who helped create the third-generation Mazda CX-5. The new model is larger and more modern, yet retains the distinctive driving experience of a Mazda. To see these qualities recognised is a welcome endorsement of our collective efforts.”
With its spacious, versatile interior, the Mazda CX-5 is well suited to an active lifestyle and the demands of everyday use. Overall length and wheelbase have each increased by 115 mm compared with its predecessor, providing more space, particularly for rear-seat passengers and luggage. Carefully selected materials enhance the cabin’s high-quality feel. The 2.5-litre e-Skyactiv G petrol engine, paired with the Mazda M Hybrid system, delivers increased torque at low and medium engine speeds for a confident, composed driving experience. The result is smooth acceleration and a more direct response in everyday driving.
