Mazda CX-5 SUV (2012-2017) - Practicality & boot space
The Mazda CX-5 has a large boot and plenty of practical touches inside
Despite being not much bigger than a Mazda3 in length and width, the Mazda CX-5 is a reasonably spacious and practical model.
Mazda CX-5 interior space & storage
Sleek exterior styling often results in a cramped interior, but that's not the case with the Mazda CX-5, which has plenty of leg and headroom for both front and back-seat passengers. Four adults can sit in comfort, but adding a third adult in the middle rear seat makes things a bit squashed. There are a good few storage spaces dotted throughout the cabin, but they're not quite as big as those found in some rivals.
Boot space
With all seats in place, the Mazda CX-5 has a 503-litre boot, which compares well with the Nissan Qashqai (430 litres), Skoda Yeti (416 litres) and Ford Kuga (456 litres) and matches the Kia Sportage's 503 litres. Access to the CX-5's boot is also easy, thanks to a wide-opening tailgate and a parcel shelf that lifts up out of the way when you open it.
The CX-5 also features useful 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats as standard on all models. You can fold down one, two or three sections to give more luggage or passenger space as required, and with all sections lowered flat into the floor, the CX-5 will hold a total of 1,620 litres. That's not quite as impressive as the Yeti's 1,720-litre seats-down figure, but better than the 1,353 litres the Kia Sportage can hold with its seats lowered. The equivalent figure for the Qashqai is 1,585 litres.
Towing
All Mazda CX-5 diesel models can tow a 2,000kg braked trailer, but the addition of four-wheel drive will make towing even easier. Manual is generally a better option than automatic for towing, too. The petrol engine’s towing limit is slightly lower, at 1,900kg.
