2026 Chevrolet Blazer vs 2026 Mazda CX-5: Full Comparison
The 2026 Chevrolet Blazer produces 228 hp, giving it a 41-horsepower advantage over the 2026 Mazda CX-5's 187 hp. The Blazer also offers an optional 3.6L V6 on the RS trim, while the CX-5 is limited to a single powertrain. This page breaks down both SUVs spec by spec so you can decide which fits your life, with Blazer inventory available at Jim Norton T-Town Chevrolet in Tulsa.
The Short Answer
The 2026 Blazer is the stronger pick for drivers who want more power, a longer body, and a robust set of standard safety features included from the entry trim. The 2026 CX-5 earns its place for buyers who prioritize standard AWD across every trim, a larger touchscreen, and Google built-in technology at a lower entry point. Neither vehicle compromises on the basics, but they target different priorities.
Specs Head-to-Head
| Specification | 2026 Chevrolet Blazer | 2026 Mazda CX-5 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L Turbo 4-cyl (V6 opt. on RS) | 2.5L DOHC 4-cyl |
| Horsepower | 228 hp | 187 hp |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft | 186 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Standard Drivetrain | FWD (AWD optional) | AWD (standard all trims) |
| EPA City MPG | 22 mpg (FWD) | 24 mpg |
| EPA Highway MPG | 29 mpg (FWD) | 30 mpg |
| EPA Combined MPG | 25 mpg (FWD) | 26 mpg |
| Length | 191.8 in | 184.6 in |
| Height | 67.0 in | 63.2 in |
| Seating | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo (2nd row up) | 30.5 cu ft | 33.7 cu ft |
| Cargo (max) | 64.2 cu ft | 66.5 cu ft |
| Ground Clearance | 7.5 in | 8.0 in |
| Basic Warranty | 3 yr / 36,000 mi | 3 yr / 36,000 mi |
| Powertrain Warranty | 5 yr / 60,000 mi | 5 yr / 60,000 mi |
Performance and Powertrain
The Blazer's turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder produces 228 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. That combination delivers a notably stronger pull from a stop compared to the CX-5, which puts out 187 hp and 186 lb-ft through a 6-speed automatic. The Blazer's RS trim adds an optional 3.6L V6, which opens a second powertrain path that the CX-5 does not offer.
Where the CX-5 has a concrete advantage is standard AWD. Every CX-5 trim ships with i-Activ AWD at no extra cost. On the Blazer, AWD is an available upgrade on the 2LT, 3LT, and RS trims but is not standard on any of them. Tulsa drivers who want all-weather capability without paying for an upgrade will find the CX-5's approach simpler.
The CX-5 also returns marginally better fuel economy: 24/30/26 mpg versus the Blazer's 25 mpg combined on FWD models (22 mpg combined on AWD variants). The gap is small, but it favors the CX-5 on longer highway drives.
The Blazer's Mi-Drive equivalent is its Driver Mode Selector, standard across all trims. The CX-5 counters with Mazda Intelligent Drive Select, which includes a dedicated Off-Road mode not found on the Blazer.
Interior, Space, and Cargo
Both SUVs seat five passengers, but their proportions differ. The Blazer stretches 191.8 inches in overall length versus the CX-5's 184.6 inches, making the Blazer the physically longer vehicle on the road. Both offer 41 inches of front leg room.
Cargo space is close. The CX-5 offers 33.7 cu ft behind the second row and 66.5 cu ft maximum. The Blazer provides 30.5 cu ft behind the second row and 64.2 cu ft maximum. The CX-5 has a slight edge in raw cargo volume, and Mazda engineered the 2026 model with a lower liftgate threshold for easier loading.
Inside, the Blazer's entry 2LT comes with premium cloth seating, heated front seats, an 8-way power driver seat, and dual-zone automatic climate control as standard. The 3LT steps up to perforated leather-appointed seats and a 6-way power passenger seat. The RS adds ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and ambient interior lighting.
The CX-5's base 2.5 S starts with cloth seating and manual driver seat adjustment, with leatherette arriving at the Select trim and leather at the Premium level. Both vehicles reach heated front seats and dual-zone climate control at comparable points in their lineups, though the Blazer includes those features lower in the range.
Technology and Safety
The CX-5 ships with a 12.9-inch touchscreen standard (growing to 15.6 inches on the Premium Plus), a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, and Google built-in, which integrates Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play with a one-year complimentary trial. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on the Select trim and above.
The Blazer equips the 2LT and 3LT with a 10.2-inch HD touchscreen running Chevrolet Infotainment 3 Plus, and the RS receives the Infotainment 3 Premium system with connected navigation. Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto are standard across all Blazer trims. OnStar connected services, remote start via myChevrolet App, and Wi-Fi hotspot capability come standard on every Blazer.
On the safety side, both vehicles include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The CX-5 extends its standard safety suite to include Traffic Sign Recognition, Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Speed Limit Assist, and a Safe Exit Warning system across every trim. The Blazer includes a Following Distance Indicator and rear parking sensors standard through the Driver Confidence Package, which is included at no extra cost on the 2LT and 3LT. The CX-5 Premium Plus adds a 360-degree view monitor and Cruising and Traffic Support with Lane Change Assist, features not available on the Blazer in any configuration.
Value and Ownership
Both vehicles carry an identical warranty structure: 3 years / 36,000 miles basic coverage and 5 years / 60,000 miles powertrain coverage. Roadside assistance on the Blazer extends to 5 years / 60,000 miles. Both include one complimentary scheduled maintenance visit in the first year.
The Blazer's standard heated front seats, remote start, and wireless phone projection at the entry 2LT trim deliver strong day-one value without requiring option packages. The CX-5 counters by making AWD standard at every trim level, which eliminates the need for an upgrade decision.
The Blazer's OnStar platform adds a layer of ownership convenience that the CX-5 does not match, including remote vehicle monitoring and in-vehicle assistance accessible through the myChevrolet App. The CX-5 offers Mazda Connected Services, including remote engine start and lock/unlock through the MyMazda App, with a one-year complimentary trial.
Which One Should You Buy
Choose the 2026 Chevrolet Blazer if:
- You want a more powerful engine (228 hp vs 187 hp) for merging and passing confidence
- You prefer the option to add a V6 at the RS trim level
- You want heated front seats and remote start included at the entry trim without extra packages
- You value OnStar's connected services ecosystem
- You plan to shop multiple configurations across Tulsa and want to see both FWD and AWD versions side by side in inventory
Choose the 2026 Mazda CX-5 if:
- You want AWD included as standard without paying for an upgrade
- A larger touchscreen with Google built-in integration is a top priority
- Slightly better highway fuel economy matters for your daily commute
- You prefer a lower cargo load floor for easier loading
- The CX-5's driving dynamics, including Off-Road mode and a more refined steering feel, matter to you
Shoppers in Tulsa who drive frequently in mixed weather and want AWD confidence without paying extra will find the CX-5 compelling. But if raw performance, a broader standard feature set at the entry trim, and access to the V6 option are what you need, the Blazer is the stronger choice.
See the 2026 Blazer Head-to-Head at Jim Norton T-Town Chevrolet in Tulsa
Jim Norton T-Town Chevrolet carries the 2026 Blazer in Tulsa in all three trims, in both FWD and AWD configurations. You can compare side by side what each trim delivers against what the CX-5 offers at a comparable price point. Schedule a test drive or browse current inventory today to find the right build for your life in Tulsa and the surrounding area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. The Blazer produces 228 hp compared to the CX-5's 187 hp, a difference of 41 horsepower. The Blazer RS can also be equipped with a 3.6L V6 for additional output.
Yes. Every 2026 CX-5 trim includes i-Activ AWD as standard equipment. The 2026 Blazer offers AWD as an available option on the 2LT, 3LT, and RS trims, but it is not standard on any trim.
The CX-5 edges ahead with 33.7 cu ft behind the second row and 66.5 cu ft maximum. The Blazer offers 30.5 cu ft behind the second row and 64.2 cu ft maximum. The difference is modest in daily use.
Yes. Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto are standard on all 2026 Blazer trims.
The CX-5 returns 24/30/26 mpg city/highway/combined. The Blazer with FWD returns 22/29/25 mpg and with AWD returns 22/27/24 mpg. The CX-5 holds a modest fuel economy advantage across all configurations.
Yes. Heated front seats are standard on all 2026 Blazer trims, including the entry-level 2LT.
Jim Norton T-Town Chevrolet carries the 2026 Blazer in Tulsa. Use the inventory link on this page to see current stock, or schedule a test drive directly.
Jim Norton’s T-Town Chevrolet (T-Town Chevy) makes every effort to ensure our Internet Advertised prices are accurate. Pricing on this website includes all factory incentives including applicable Consumer and/or Bonus Cash. All incentives and offers, listed beneath “Jim Norton’s Price” are conditional and may not be applied or stacked with Consumer and/or Bonus Cash and other incentives. All customers and purchases are eligible for the “Discount Available to Everyone” and is unconditional. Our website provider receives pricing, pictures, vehicle description and options from multiple sources and may be delayed. T-Town Chevy will not be held responsible for erroneous vehicle data or pricing. The customer is responsible for calling 918-921-2100 to confirm vehicle pricing, description, options and availability. Jim Norton T-Town Complimentary Engines for Life applies to new vehicles only and is non-transferable to second owner. We follow the Chevrolet owner’s manual regarding mileage requirements for oil changes. Corvettes, diesels and commercial vehicles are not applicable. Not eligible to use at other Jim Norton Auto Group stores.
The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price excludes tax, title, license, dealer fees and optional equipment. Dealer sets final price.