Trunk comparison: Mazda Mazda CX-5 vs VW Golf Wagon (Mk5)

Key Differences (Summary)

With the rear seats folded down, both models offer the same loading length.

With the rear seats upright, the trunk of the VW Golf 5 is 9% (+3.5 in) longer than that of the Mazda CX‑5. The trunk opening of the CX‑5 is 2 in (≈7%) higher, and the narrowest width and opening width are each 2 in (≈5%) larger on the CX‑5. The depth (loading edge to trunk floor) is the same. The most noticeable difference is the loading edge: the loading edge of the Mazda CX‑5 is 4.7 in (19%) higher above the ground than that of the VW Golf 5.

Impact on Usability

The significantly higher loading edge of the CX‑5 (≈19%) increases the lifting effort when loading heavy items.

Heavy luggage, crates, or bulky furniture must be lifted higher in the CX‑5 instead of being easily slid in — this makes frequent or strenuous loading less practical for the CX‑5. The Golf 5 with its lower loading edge allows easier sliding in and less physical strain when loading and unloading.

The smaller advantages of the CX‑5 in width (+2 in) and opening height (+2 in) make it easier to accommodate wider or slightly taller items, but with a 5–7% difference, these are relatively minor and rarely decisive.

Similarly, the 9% longer trunk of the Golf with the rear seats upright is noticeable but remains under the 10% threshold.

When the rear seats are folded down, both vehicles have the same cargo length — so there is no advantage for long transports without rear seats.

In summary: For frequent handling of heavy or bulky items, the VW Golf 5 is more practical due to the lower loading edge; those who occasionally load wider or somewhat taller items benefit slightly from the larger opening dimensions of the Mazda CX‑5 but face more lifting effort due to the higher loading edge.