Trunk comparison: BMW X5 vs Mazda Mazda CX-5
Key Differences
Among the measured values, one difference clearly stands out: the depth of the trunk (loading edge to trunk floor) is 1.6 in or 400% greater in the Mazda CX‑5 compared to the BMW X5 — this is the only value with more than a 10% difference.
All other dimensions differ only slightly: with the seats folded down, the BMW has a loading length that is 6.3 in (9%) longer and with the first row of seats upright, a loading length that is 3.1 in (8%) longer than the Mazda.
The trunk opening is only 0.4 in (1%) higher on the BMW, the loading edge above the road is 1.2 in (4%) higher on the BMW, the narrowest width of the trunk is 2 in (5%) greater on the BMW, and the opening width is 1.2 in (3%) greater.
Impact on Usability
The significantly greater trunk depth of the Mazda means practically: the CX‑5 offers a deeper cargo space below the loading edge, allowing bulky or tall items to be better “recessed” and stored below the loading edge — this increases the usable volume for bulky, awkward cargo and improves securing smaller items against shifting.
Disadvantages of this deep well include more difficult access to the trunk floor (requiring deeper reach) and potentially more challenging cleaning.
The BMW, on the other hand, scores with longer loading lengths (each about 8–9% more length) and slightly greater width at narrow points and the opening. This makes the X5 more practical for long, flat cargo (e.g., slats, skis, long boxes) and facilitates loading wider items.
The 1.2 in higher loading edge on the BMW increases the weight that must be lifted but can result in a smaller angle to the cargo when loading from the curb.
Conclusion: If you mainly want to “recess” deep, bulky luggage or irregularly shaped items, the Mazda CX‑5 is more advantageous in everyday use due to its significantly greater trunk depth.
If you more often transport long or wide items and need a somewhat longer, wider loading area, the BMW X5 is more suitable — however, the other differences are moderate and only slightly affect everyday practicality.