Promising to read the one post which said it would be about 5" longer. I would like it to be ~189" and have a larger backseat. The rear seat legroom is one of the CX-5's downfalls. If they can get the new 8-sp into it and keep top power at 250hp or higher they will have a winner.
I agree with you; hopefully an 8 speed would not only provide better fuel economy but could also lower the RPM on the highway giving a quieter ride.
I have a 2020 Canadian GS which is similar to the US Touring so only one trim up from base but I find it has many neat features! It will be interesting to see what improvements and new goodies it will have but also what features will Mazda remove if any? I particularly like the 40/20/40 seat back with remote handles, carpeted side cargo area, reclining rear seat albeit only two position, acoustic glass, 2 rear seat pockets (many vehicles have only one), height adjustable passenger seat, heated wipers with additional heater near driver's side A pillar, 3 level heated seats, triple door seals, extended lower door trim keeps door sill clean. This is the kind of refinement the competition doesn't have.
Is there room for improvement? Of course and it has been discussed at length so we'll see what happens. For me here's my wish list; bigger door pockets, glove box and console, more room between gas pedal and console, bigger cargo under floor storage, back up camera with predictive lines, foot activated power hatch, key fob with larger buttons and remote start, better soundproofing, larger front seats, more heat from heated steering wheel, J hook wipers, eco/normal/sport transmission modes. I know I'm asking a lot...
I don't need a panoramic sunroof or downhill descent control but that would be nice for those who want it.