Mazda CX-5 gets Google built in

What's new

The new Mazda CX-5 is the first Mazda with Google built-in, meaning Google's services are built directly into the car's system. It is also the first model on Mazda's new electronics architecture, called E/E Architecture+ (EEA+). It is essentially the car's new "nervous system" for everything digital.

The car ships with Google Assistant as its voice assistant. Google Gemini, Google's newer AI assistant, will arrive later. According to Mazda UK, that will happen either at delivery or through an over-the-air software update. The sources do not say when Gemini will actually roll out. Gemini has an age limit of 18, and Mazda says compatibility and availability vary.

The center screen is 12.9 or 15.6 inches, depending on trim level. All cars get a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster.

What's smart

With voice control, you can talk to the car instead of tapping around on the screen. It is meant to cover things like climate control and navigation. Google Maps and Google Play are included, so you can use familiar maps and download apps directly in the car.

If you would rather use your own phone as the base, the car supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It can also be used with Mazda's MyMazda app.

Note that Google's services are built into the car, but Mazda states in its disclaimers that apps require a smartphone with a data plan, and that additional costs may apply.

Cheaper or better?

The starting price in Germany is 34,500 euros. No Danish price has been announced, and the sources do not say if or when the car will come to Denmark. The exchange rate to kroner is not in the sources, so the price is given in euros only.

Google Maps, Google Assistant and Google Play are free during a trial period, after which a subscription is required. In the European announcement, Gemini is mentioned instead of Assistant in the same disclaimer. The length of the trial period and the subscription price have not been disclosed, so the ongoing cost is unknown.

There is no independent test of Gemini in the CX-5 and no comparison with competitors. All information comes from Mazda itself, so it is hard to say whether the system is better than those in other cars.

Who it's good for

The car suits those who want a family SUV with a modern, Google-based system where you can control navigation and climate by voice. It is also an obvious fit for people who already use Google Maps and Android or iPhone and want the phone closely integrated.

Under the hood is a 2.5-liter gasoline engine (e-Skyactiv G) with 141 hp and 238 Nm. It takes 10.5 seconds to go from 0 to 100 km/h with front-wheel drive, and towing capacity is up to 2,000 kg. That makes it usable for a caravan or trailer, but it is not built to be fast.

The European launch begins in December 2025, depending on the market. Mazda UK says the car will reach British dealers in spring 2026.