How Much Cargo Fits in a 2017 Mazda CX-5? A Real-World Test vs. Rivals.

Based on our real-world assessment, the 2017 Mazda CX-5 offers competitive cargo space that is practical for most needs, though its official 30.9 cubic feet (behind rear seats) and 59.6 cubic feet (seats folded) specifications can be misleading. In a direct comparison against rivals like the Honda CR-V and Ford Escape, the CX-5's cargo area proved versatile, with a key advantage being its independently folding rear seats, even if it couldn't fit our largest test item with the seats up.

What Is the Real-World Cargo Space of a 2017 Mazda CX-5?

To visualize the cargo capacity, we used a standardized set of items: a 23-inch adult bicycle, a pair of golf bags, and an adjustable cardboard box. The box was tested in two configurations to simulate common cargo:

• A smaller box measuring 37 inches long, 6 inches wide, and 41 inches tall, designed to fit behind the rear seats.
• An expanded box measuring 70 by 6 by 41 inches, requiring the rear seats to be folded down.

The 2017 CX-5 could not accommodate the smaller 37-inch box behind its rear seats. In this specific test, only the 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan managed this feat. However, the CX-5 handled the larger, expanded 70-inch box with ease when the seats were folded. While the resulting cargo floor wasn't perfectly flat like in the Honda CR-V or Chevrolet Equinox, the slightly elevated area in the CX-5 did not significantly impede its usability.

How Does the Mazda CX-5's Cargo Area Compare to Its Competitors?

This test placed the 2017 Mazda CX-5 against key rivals in the compact SUV segment, including the 2018 Chevrolet Equinox, 2017 Ford Escape, 2017 Honda CR-V, 2017 Jeep Compass, 2017.5 Nissan Rogue, and 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan. The competition highlighted different design priorities. For instance, the Honda CR-V is often praised for its class-leading and highly configurable cargo space, offering a completely flat load floor when seats are folded. The CX-5's cargo volume is competitive with the Escape and Rogue, but its standout feature wasn't just raw space—it was flexibility.

What Are the Practical Advantages of the CX-5's Cargo Design?

The most significant practical advantage of the 2017 Mazda CX-5's cargo area is its 40/20/40-split folding rear seats. This design means the seatbacks can fold independently in three sections (two outboard sections and a center portion), a feature not offered by all competitors. Conveniently located releases in the cargo area allow you to fold each section without having to walk to the rear passenger doors. This is invaluable when transporting a combination of long items (like skis or lumber) and passengers, providing a level of versatility that enhances everyday usability beyond what the cubic footage numbers suggest.

For transporting delicate items like a flat-screen television, it's important to note that manufacturers recommend keeping the box upright. While we laid our test box flat for visualization, best practice for a real TV would be to secure it upright, which the CX-5's well-shaped area can accommodate.

Is the 2017 Mazda CX-5's Cargo Space a Deal-Breaker?

For most buyers, the 2017 Mazda CX-5 offers ample and highly usable cargo space. Its performance in our test confirms that:

• It has sufficient room for large, bulky items like a big bicycle or multiple suitcases when the rear seats are folded.
• The 40/20/40-split folding seats provide superior flexibility for mixed passenger-and-cargo trips, a key differentiator.
• While it may not lead the pack in every single cargo measurement, its overall package of driving dynamics, upscale interior, and smart storage solutions makes it a strong contender.

If your primary need is to frequently carry very large, tall items behind the rear seats, the Honda CR-V or Volkswagen Tiguan might be better suited. However, for a balanced blend of sporty driving, premium feel, and versatile cargo utility, the 2017 Mazda CX-5 remains an excellent choice. When shopping for a used model, be sure to inspect the cargo area for wear and test the seat-folding mechanisms to ensure they operate smoothly.