Trunk comparison: Mazda Mazda CX-5 vs VW Passat Wagon

Key Differences

The VW Passat Wagon offers noticeably more loading length: with the seats folded down, the trunk is 12.2 in (18%) longer, and with the first row of seats upright, it is 6.7 in (18%) longer than the Mazda CX‑5. The trunk depth (distance from loading edge → trunk floor) is 1.6 in (80%) greater in the Passat.

In contrast, the loading edge of the Mazda CX‑5 sits 4.7 in (19%) higher above the road than the Passat.

The height of the trunk opening is the same in both models; the width at the narrowest point (+1.6 in / 4%) and the opening width (+0.4 in / 1%) are only slightly in favor of the Mazda and thus practically have little impact.

Impact on Usability

The longer cargo space of the Passat makes it significantly more practical for long items (slats, furniture parts, skis, disassembled bicycles): both with folded seats and with normal seating position, more usable length remains.

The greater trunk depth in the Passat creates a deeper loading floor, allowing bulky or tall loads to sit lower and more securely.

The lower loading edge of the Passat makes it easier to load heavy or bulky items because less lifting height is required. The higher loading edge in the Mazda, on the other hand, increases the effort needed when lifting and can make loading large, heavy items less convenient.

Since the opening height and clear width vary only minimally, both vehicles make little difference in terms of vertical and lateral pass-through capability.

Overall: those who regularly transport long or bulky cargo and want easier loading will find the VW Passat Wagon's trunk more practical; those who only load occasionally and value the SUV style of the CX‑5 will hardly notice the minor width differences.