Mazda CX-5 Interior: Features, Colors, Cabin Space

Mazda CX-5 Interior: Features, Colors, Cabin Space

The Mazda CX-5 interior is designed to provide the versatility, comfort and convenience modern motorists seek, backed by intuitive functionality and an engaging driving experience. With its right-sized cabin boasting surprisingly premium amenities for its price range, it’s no wonder the Mazda CX-5 has been the automaker’s top-selling model for many years in a row.

All compact crossover SUVs offer space for up to five passengers plus cargo, so what makes the Mazda CX-5 cabin class-leading in many respects? It’s not just about the spec sheet.

Let’s look at the Mazda CX-5 features, technologies, capacities and some of the intangibles that make this Mazda CUV and its inviting interior a popular choice among compact SUV shoppers.

The Definitive Guide to the Mazda CX-5 Interior Through the Years

No matter what model year of Mazda CX-5 you’re considering, we have you covered with our detailed review of the Mazda CX-5 interior over the years.

We’ll start with the current second-generation Mazda CX-5 and its cabin before moving on to the still well-loved first-generation Mazda CX-5 crossover and its interior.

The Mazda CX-5 Interior: Features and Updates From 2017 to Present

The second generation of the Mazda CX-5 debuted for the 2017 model year, featuring an interior that looked and felt more premium than the outgoing first-generation Mazda CX-5 in several ways. While the later editions of the first-gen Mazda CX-5 cabin shared some of the same bits as the newer 2017-plus model, plenty of Mazda CX-5 features still separate the two.

For starters, the 2017 Mazda CX-5 interior gained a new 7-inch digital display in the center stack that is operated by a center-console-mounted rotary commander knob.

The intuitive Mazda Connect infotainment system can also be operated by touch through the large center display screen while the 2017 CX-5 is parked. However, most drivers will likely get used to navigating the menus through the commander control knob and buttons while the CUV is in motion, and do the same while parked.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were missing from the initial debut of the 2017 Mazda CX-5 (the same goes for the 2018 Mazda CX-5 interior), but Mazda later offered a software upgrade for Mazda CX-5 owners with the Mazda Connect system, even those dating back before 2017.

The 2019 Mazda CX-5 interior was the first year of this compact crossover SUV to gain factory-installed Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability as an available feature.

Only minor changes were made for the 2020 Mazda CX-5 interior, with the Hiroshima-based carmaker’s i-Activsense suite of driver-assistance technologies added as standard equipment, which includes safety tech like:

  • Advanced Smart City Brake Support
  • Mazda Radar Cruise Control
  • Blind Spot Monitoring
  • Rear Cross Traffic Alert
  • Lane Departure Warning System
  • Lane-Keep Assist
  • High-Beam Control

Mazda CX-5 technologies were updated and enhanced for the 2021 model year. The most notable upgrade for the 2021 Mazda CX-5 interior is its 10.3-inch infotainment screen that sits high on the dashboard and features a widescreen layout.

This center digital display replaces the previously standard 7-inch display found inside the 2017-2020 Mazda CX-5. A new Mazda Connect interface is also included for 2021, featuring a fresh look and layout.

Updated seats providing more support and new selectable drive-mode settings are two of the key updates to the 2022 Mazda CX-5 interior. As of this writing, the most recent model year finds the 2023 Mazda CX-5 interior with no significant updates or upgrades from the prior year.

We’ve covered model year updates and technologies of the second-generation Mazda CX-5 cabin, but what about its space and comfort features?

Besides the standard cloth and available leather-trimmed seats, this generation of the Mazda CX-5 saw the introduction of a third seating material. While the 2020 Mazda CX-5 Sport base trim wears cloth upholstery, the Touring trim adds leatherette or faux-leather seats.

Late-model mid-grade trim levels like the Grand Touring, Preferred and above gain real leather seats. Leatherette replaced cloth as the standard seating material in the 2023 Mazda CX-5.

2017-2023 Mazda CX-5 Cabin Dimensions

Classified as a compact crossover SUV, the Mazda CX-5 has remained about the same size through its two generations. The most recent version offers slightly less passenger space and cargo capacity than the original CX-5 it replaced.

The Mazda CX-5 may have appeared all-new when launched for 2017, but the redesign of this popular compact CUV was actually a heavily revised version of the original model that spanned from 2013 to 2016. The second generation is a little longer and wider, but due to its more low-slung design, its cargo space shrunk with marginally less cargo height.

The total passenger volume within the 2017-plus Mazda CX-5 measures 103.6 cubic feet and is fit for up to five occupants.

Regarding cargo capacity, the 2017 and newer Mazda CX-5 trails the first generation of this model by a slight margin. Opt for a 2017 to 2023 or newer CX-5, and you’ll find 30.9 cubic feet of standard cargo volume with all five seats upright.

Fold the second-row seating to uncover up to 59.6 cubic feet of maximum cargo space. A 40/20/40 split-folding rear seatback is an appreciated amenity in the Mazda CX-5 and a feature you don’t find on many mainstream compact SUVs.

Here’s a recap of the late-model Mazda CX-5 interior dimensions from the 2017 to 2023 model years:

  • Passenger Capacity: 5
  • Passenger Volume: 103.6 cubic feet
  • Standard Cargo Capacity: 30.9 cubic feet
  • Maximum Cargo Volume: 59.6 cubic feet
  • Front-Row Head Room: 39.7 inches
  • Front-Row Leg Room: 41 inches
  • Front-Row Hip Room: 55.2 inches
  • Front-Row Shoulder Room: 57.1 inches
  • Second-Row Head Room: 39 inches
  • Second-Row Leg Room: 39.6 inches
  • Second-Row Hip Room: 55.3 inches
  • Second-Row Shoulder Room: 54.8 inches

2017-2023 Mazda CX-5 Interior Colors and Treatments

As Mazda began pursuing its premium vehicle strategy, the popular CX-5 gained a more upscale interior through its second generation, including the addition of interior color treatments typically only found in luxury vehicles.

For the first time, the Mazda CX-5 offered premium Nappa leather seat trim with the arrival of the Signature trim. Another Mazda CX-5 interior option includes striking red leather seating surfaces, highlighted in the CX-5 Carbon Edition interior.

The full list of Mazda CX-5 interior colors from 2017 until the present includes:

  • Black Cloth
  • Black Leatherette
  • Silk Beige Leatherette
  • Black Leather
  • Parchment Leather
  • Red Leather
  • Caturra Brown Nappa Leather

The 2013-2016 Mazda CX-5 and Its Cabin

Before we cover the 2013-2016 Mazda CX-5 interior, let’s look back at the debut of this model, which has become Mazda’s top-selling model in many markets.

The original Mazda CX-5 debuted several firsts for Mazda. The 2013 CX-5 was the first Mazda production vehicle to receive the automaker’s Kodo “Soul of Motion” design language, which continues to inspire Mazda vehicle designs today.

This first-generation CX-5 was also the first Mazda model to feature a full array of the carmaker’s innovative Skyactiv powertrain and chassis technologies designed to work in unison to deliver improved efficiency, responsiveness and overall performance.

The Mazda CX-5 was essentially replacing previous Mazda two-row SUVs like the Mazda Tribute and CX-7, so the 2013 Mazda CX-5 interior needed ample cabin and cargo space while still offering the agile and sporty driving experience the brand was after.

With a five-passenger interior rivaling competitive options from other automakers and a more engaging driving experience, the original Mazda CX-5 and subsequent versions proved successful, ultimately accounting for around half of all Mazda new vehicle sales in many markets worldwide.

The Mazda CX-5 Interior Features and Updates From 2013 to 2016

Drivers who opt for any of the first few years of the Mazda CX-5 will find similar cabin features offered.

Spacious five-passenger seating covered with standard cloth or available perforated leather trim fills the cabin in front of the rear cargo hold. The rear seating features a 40/20/40-split arrangement, aiding in accommodating cargo of various shapes and sizes.

The 2013 and 2014 Mazda CX-5 interior’s center stack houses a 5.8-inch digital display with buttons and knobs at either side to navigate the infotainment system.

The 2014 and 2015 Mazda CX-5 interior remained largely unchanged from the crossover SUV’s 2013 debut.

A significant design refresh and features upgrade came for 2016. The CX-5 received a reworked interior and exterior, even including some cabin components and features that would remain with the debut of the second-gen 2017 CX-5.

A larger available 7-inch center display replaced the 5.8-inch screen for 2016, as did a new version of the Mazda infotainment system.

The 2016 Mazda CX-5 interior’s new Mazda Connect infotainment system was paired with the carmaker’s commander control knob between the front seats, introducing this technology already found on other redesigned Mazda models and is still in use on new Mazda cars for sale.

Operating the infotainment system through the commander control knob allows the driver to remain in a more natural and neutral position, rather than needing to reach and lean forward for buttons or a touchscreen.

The 2016 Mazda CX-5 cabin was substantially restyled, updated and upgraded to provide a more premium interior for all occupants, but especially for the driver. A new switchgear design and electronic parking brake replaced the old gated shifter and traditional lever parking brake.

The 2016 CX-5 interior brought even more updates, though. An upgraded center console, dashboard and armrest design, additional soft-touch materials and increased sound deadening were also included to enhance the Mazda CX-5 cabin for 2016 and beyond.

A 2016.5 model was released mid-year with several trim and feature updates before the arrival of the redesigned 2017 model arrived. Key updates for the 2016.5 Mazda CX-5 interior include the model’s 7-inch display becoming standard, plus a standard backup camera on all 2016.5 CX-5 SUVs equipped with the automatic transmission.

Navigation became standard on the higher Touring and Grand Touring trims, with the 2016.5 CX-5 Touring edition also adding standard heated front seats. A memory seat function for the driver’s seat and a power-adjustable driver’s seat were also made available for the 2016.5 Mazda CX-5 in the range-topping Grand Touring cabin.

More Mazda CX-5 technologies and driver-assist features arrived for 2016, with a new i-Activsense Package available on the top trim when paired with the Grand Touring Technology Package that included the embedded Mazda Navigation system.

2013-2016 Mazda CX-5 Cabin Dimensions

We already touched on the fact that the 2013-2016 Mazda CX-5 offers similar interior dimensions to the 2017-2023 CX-5 for which the latter is based. However, as mentioned, the first-gen boasts an even larger and taller cargo hold than the model that replaced it from 2017 onward.

The 2013-2016 Mazda CX-5 interior dimensions measure as follows:

  • Passenger Capacity: 5
  • Passenger Volume: 103.8 cubic feet
  • Standard Cargo Capacity: 34.1 cubic feet
  • Maximum Cargo Volume: 65.4 cubic feet
  • Front-Row Head Room: 40.1 inches
  • Front-Row Leg Room: 41 inches
  • Front-Row Hip Room: 55.2 inches
  • Front-Row Shoulder Room: 57.5 inches
  • Second-Row Head Room: 39 inches
  • Second-Row Leg Room: 39.3 inches
  • Second-Row Hip Room: 53.7 inches
  • Second-Row Shoulder Room: 55.5 inches

2013-2016 Mazda CX-5 Cabin Colors and Treatments

Cloth seating surfaces came standard on the first-gen CX-5, with perforated leather seats available across the model years.

Fewer interior color treatments were offered during the first run of Mazda CX-5 production spanning 2013 to 2016 (or 2016.5) model years. Still, several cabin color options were made available, including:

  • Black Cloth
  • Sand Cloth
  • Black Perforated Leather
  • Sand Perforated Leather
  • Parchment Perforated Leather

If you’re shopping for a new, late-model or older Mazda CX-5, we hope our review of the Mazda CX-5 interior has provided you with the details needed to make an informed buying decision.

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Mazda CX-5 Interior Frequently Asked Questions

How many passengers can the Mazda CX-5 hold?

The Mazda CX-5 can accommodate up to five passengers in comfort. As a compact crossover SUV, the Mazda CX-5 offers ample seating space for up to five in two rows, with the second row providing substantial leg room, hip room, shoulder room and head room for up to three occupants. Children or smaller adults will find the second row the most comfortable for longer trips.

What are the Mazda CX-5 interior dimensions?

The 2017 model year and newer Mazda CX-5 interior boasts 103.6 cubic feet of passenger space, 30.9 cubic feet of standard cargo volume and up to 59.6 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity with the rear seating folded. The 2013-2016 Mazda CX-5 interior offers 103.8 cubic feet of passenger volume, 34.1 cubic feet of standard cargo space and 65.4 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume.

Does the Mazda CX-5 have leather seats?

Every model year of the Mazda CX-5 is offered with leather seating. Earlier editions of the Mazda CX-5 interior featured cloth and perforated leather seating options. Late-model Mazda CX-5 interiors first came standard with cloth, then more recently leatherette seats, with leather and Nappa leather seating surfaces offered on higher trim levels.