When choosing a mid-size SUV, practicality is often at the top of the list. You need a vehicle that can handle daily commutes, weekend getaways, and everything in between. One of the most critical factors in this decision is boot space. The Mazda CX-5 is a popular choice for its style and driving dynamics, but how does its cargo capacity measure up? Let’s take a closer look at the Mazda CX-5 boot space to see if it meets your needs.
This article will explore the dimensions and capacity of the CX-5’s boot. We will also see how it compares to its main competitors and highlight the clever features that make it a versatile and practical option for a wide range of lifestyles.
Mazda CX-5 Boot Capacity: The Numbers
So, how much space are we talking about? The Mazda CX-5 offers a competitive amount of cargo room that balances its sleek design with everyday usability.
With the rear seats in their upright position, the Mazda CX-5 provides 541 litres of boot space. This figure is measured up to the tonneau cover, giving you a generous area for groceries, luggage, or sports equipment without obstructing your rear view. If you remove the cover and load up to the roofline, this capacity increases even further.
What Does 541 Litres Look Like?
Numbers on a page can be hard to visualize. To put it into perspective, 541 litres is more than enough room for:
- A large weekly grocery shop for the whole family.
- Several large suitcases for a holiday trip.
- A folded baby stroller along with changing bags.
- Camping gear for a weekend adventure.
- A couple of full-sized golf bags.
The boot floor is wide and relatively flat, making it easy to slide heavier items in and out. The low loading lip also helps reduce the strain of lifting bulky objects into the vehicle.
Maximizing Your Cargo Space: Split-Folding Seats
Every CX-5 model comes standard with a versatile 40/20/40 split-folding rear seat system. This is a significant advantage over the more common 60/40 split found in many rivals. This configuration gives you incredible flexibility for carrying a mix of passengers and long or awkward items.
For example, you can fold down the middle “20” section to transport skis, flat-pack furniture, or fishing rods while still comfortably seating two passengers in the rear. When you need maximum cargo capacity, folding down all three sections of the rear seat opens up a cavernous 1,680 litres of space. This transforms the CX-5 into a vehicle capable of handling trips to the hardware store or moving larger household items.
Smart Features Enhancing Usability
Mazda has included several thoughtful features to make the CX-5’s boot even more practical and user-friendly.
Adjustable Cargo Floor
One of the standout features is the two-piece, reversible, and height-adjustable cargo floor. This clever design allows you to configure the boot to your specific needs. The floor can be set to a higher position to create a completely flat surface when the rear seats are folded down, which is perfect for sliding long, heavy items into the back.
Setting it in the lower position maximizes the available vertical space. Additionally, one side of the floorboard is carpeted, while the other side is a durable, waterproof plastic. This is ideal for carrying wet or dirty items like muddy boots, sports gear, or plants from the garden centre without worrying about staining the carpet.
Remote Seat Release
Convenience is key, and Mazda delivers with available remote release levers located in the boot area. Instead of having to walk around to the side doors to fold down the rear seats, you can simply pull a lever in the cargo bay to release the corresponding seat section. It’s a small touch that makes a big difference when your hands are full.
Power Tailgate
Higher trim levels of the Mazda CX-5 often come equipped with a programmable power tailgate. This feature allows you to open and close the boot with the press of a button, either from your key fob, a button on the dashboard, or the tailgate itself. You can also program the opening height, which is useful for preventing it from hitting a low garage ceiling.
How Does the CX-5 Compare to Competitors?
The mid-size SUV market is fiercely competitive. While the Mazda CX-5 holds its own, it’s helpful to see how its boot space stacks up against some key rivals.
- Toyota RAV4: The RAV4 is a class leader in cargo space, typically offering around 580 litres with the seats up.
- Honda CR-V: Another strong contender, the CR-V also boasts a slightly larger boot than the CX-5, often exceeding 580 litres.
- Volkswagen Tiguan: The Tiguan offers a sliding rear bench, allowing you to prioritize either legroom or boot space. In its most spacious configuration, it offers up to 615 litres.
- Hyundai Tucson: The Tucson is known for its impressive practicality, with newer models providing over 620 litres of boot space.
While some competitors offer more capacity on paper, the Mazda CX-5’s boot is far from small. Its intelligent design, including the 40/20/40 split seats and adjustable floor, makes the space highly effective and adaptable. For many buyers, the difference of a few litres is less important than the overall usability and flexibility that the CX-5 provides.
The Verdict: A Practical and Versatile Choice
The Mazda CX-5 proves that you don’t have to sacrifice style for substance. Its 541-litre boot is more than adequate for the demands of daily life, from family holidays to outdoor pursuits.
What truly sets the CX-5 apart are the thoughtful features that enhance its practicality. The 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats offer superior flexibility compared to many rivals, and the dual-sided, adjustable cargo floor is a brilliant touch for protecting your vehicle and accommodating different types of loads.
While it may not have the largest boot in its class by pure numbers, the Mazda CX-5’s cargo area is intelligently designed, easy to use, and incredibly versatile. It is a strong selling point that makes this stylish SUV a compelling and practical option for a wide range of drivers and families.