Unveiling the Secrets Behind Mazda's CX-5: A Miata-Inspired Engineering Marvel
The CX-5's Handling Revolution: A Miata's Legacy in Action
The Mazda CX-5 has always been renowned for its exceptional handling, but the 2026 model takes it to a whole new level. How did Mazda manage to make an already impressive crossover even better? The answer lies in the DNA of the MX-5 Miata, a sports car with a legendary reputation for agility and precision.
Ruben Archilla, Mazda's senior manager of Research & Development, reveals the secret behind the CX-5's enhanced performance. "It wasn’t a matter of changing the character, it was just a matter of making it better."
The key to this improvement lies in the new, more expensive damper design. These dampers feature a larger piston diameter and an improved valve stack, reducing friction and providing more sensitivity, especially at low speeds. The damping curve is now less progressive, resulting in a more linear response.
But the magic doesn't stop there. Mazda also "changed the relationship" between the springs and dampers. The new CX-5 has relatively soft springs and firm dampers, a concept borrowed from the Miata. This setup allows the CX-5 to absorb imperfections in the road, providing a more comfortable and softer ride. The damping force has been increased, especially at the initial movement, ensuring the body posture and motions remain well-controlled.
Steering Feel: A Tactile Transformation
Mazda has also improved the CX-5's steering feel by adding more analog feedback. The G-Vectoring Control system has been further refined, reducing engine torque to transfer weight to the front tires when the driver begins to turn. This enhances grip and response, creating more force that gets fed back through the steering.
A new feature in the 2026 CX-5 is lightly preloading the torque coupling in the all-wheel-drive system. This tries to force the front and rear tires to spin at the same rate, making the car want to go straight. The reduced damping in the electric power steering assist system further enhances the steering feel, providing more tactile feedback and lighter effort.
The Miata's Legacy Lives On
The MX-5 Miata's influence on the CX-5 is undeniable. With its lower ride frequency and considerably lower spring rate, the Miata's concept of relatively soft springs and firm dampers has been seamlessly integrated into the CX-5. This results in a more controlled and comfortable ride, making the CX-5 a true masterpiece of engineering.
So, the next time you're behind the wheel of your CX-5, remember the Miata's legacy that makes your driving experience so exceptional. But here's where it gets controversial... What do you think? Do you agree that the Miata's influence is the secret behind the CX-5's success? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
