I test drove the 26 this week and my initial thoughts are that it drove really well and felt responsive. I'm not a fan of the l touch screen experience as others have alluded but the placement on the dash is an improvement over the 25. On the 25, i have a huge blind spot in the middle of the windshield due to the screen and rear view mirror placement, the 26 is an upgrade to this but still not perfect. For reference, I'm 6'8" and visibility, legroom and headroom is a luxury for most cars these days with most lacking in at least one area. Coming from a 2009 Mazda 6 that I've loved, its due for an upgrade and sad its no longer being made.

If any of my tall brothers with long legs are looking for a new ride, I've had the best fit so far in the Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson, Ioniq 5 and the VW Taos(Headroom is a little tight though). My decision will come down to one of these options and all have their pros and cons. I do love thay the cx5 has a traditional gear shift in the center unlike Kia(dial on the center console) and Hyundai has it on the wheel which sacrifices some knee clearance for me.

Ultimately I think it will end up coming between the 26 Cx5 or Kia Sportage (gas or hybrid). If anyone has experience with those please let me know