Mazda CX-5 primarily builds and designs to carry passengers and cargo. Although, you can tow with it too as it has got decent towing capacity which does depend on the engine type it comes up with.
We will discuss each and every model of CX-5 in this article and will find out its pulling capabilities and precautions. But first, a little introduction.
CX 5 is a compact crossover SUV manufactured by Mazda. It was introduced in 2013 with the base variant having a PE-VPS 2.0 liter petrol four-cylinder engine capable of 162 bhp (Brake Horsepower). Since its launch in the USA and Canada, the sales are increasing with passing years.
I have researched and compiled towing data right from the owner’s manual from the 2013 year models to the latest 2021 year models. To ensure data’s reliability, I have to download the owner’s manual from Mazda’s Official Website. Despite all this, I really encourage you to completely read the “Towing a Trailer” section from the manual.
Mazda CX-5 Towing Capacity: Models having diesel engine has a higher towing capacity than those without. Only three models of CX-5 come with diesel engines, 2021, 2020, and 2018. In all these three models you can tow up to 3,500 lbs (1587.5 kg).
While in other models having a gasoline engine 2,000 lbs (907 kg) is towing capacity.
Engine Choice: Models from 2021 – 2018, second generation, of CX 5 has 4 model options, 3 gasoline, and 1 diesel. While models from 2017 – 2013, first-generation, has 2 model options.
Despite a simple towing number, other values are crucial to keeping in considerations while towing. Such as the number of occupants and their cargo. Along with these, GCWR (Gross Combination Weight Rating), TTW (Total Trailer Weight), GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating), and GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating) are mandatory to keep into consideration.
These figures can also be found on your Mazda’s “Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Label” posted on the driver’s door frame. Do not exceed any of the values given in this article.
Some Important Points:
- Do not tow while CX 5 is within its first 1,000 km (600 miles).
- Always use high octane gasoline while towing, 91 octane rating or higher.
- Trailer brakes are required if the total trailer weight exceeds 450 kg (1,000 lb).
- Tongue Load = 10% – 15%, of a fully-loaded trailer.
Note: I have grouped models that share similar engine types and are in the same generation.
2021-2018 Mazda CX-5 Towing Capacity
All models after starting from 2018 fall under the second generation of Mazda CX-5. Models from this generation have 4 engine options, the SkyActiv-G 2.0L (gasoline), SkyActiv-D 2.5L (gasoline), SkyActiv-D 2.5LT (gasoline), and SkyActiv-D 2.2L (diesel). Towing capacity chances only where your CX 5 model has the SkyActiv-D 2.2L diesel engine, increases to 3,500 pounds (1587.5 kg). While other engine options have the same towing capacity, 2,000 lbs (907 kg).
2021 CX 5 Towing-Load Table Image (taken from owner’s manual)
Image credit: 2021 Mazda CX 5 Owner’s Manual
2020 CX 5 Towing-Load Table Image (taken from owner’s manual)
2020
2019 CX 5 Towing-Load Table Image (taken from owner’s manual)
2019
2018 CX 5 Towing-Load Table Image (taken from owner’s manual)
2018
2017-2014 Mazda CX-5 Towing Capacity
Right in the second year of its launch, Mazda introduced the SkyActiv-G 2.5L (gasoline) engine in the US market along with the first year’s model engine. That’s why you will find small changes in GAWR, GCWR, and GAWR.
Below is the Towing-Load Table’s image taken from 2017’s owner’s manual. Models having a SkyActiv-G 2.0L engine from this year lacks an all-wheel-drive system and automatic transmission. While other models in the first generation of the Mazda CX 5 has those missing features.
2017
2016 CX 5 Towing-Load Table Image (taken from owner’s manual)
2016
2015 CX 5 Towing-Load Table Image (taken from owner’s manual)
2015
2014 CX 5 Towing-Load Table Image (taken from owner’s manual)
2014
2013 Mazda CX-5 Towing Capacity
2013 is the year when Mazda introduced CX 5 with a choice of the SkyActiv-D 2.2L or SkyActiv-G 2.0L engine. Both engines equipped with a 2WD system and an AWD system. Although, in the US only a 2.5L engine was introduced. In 2012, when it was first shown to the world, it was awarded “Car of the Year Japan”. Mazda set CX 5’s towing capacity 2,000 lbs (907 kg), and since then the first-generation CX 5 has the same towing capacity.
2013 CX 5 Towing-Load Table Image (taken from owner’s manual)
2013
Also Read: Mazda CX-9 Towing Capacity (All Model Years)
Tips While Towing with Mazda CX-5
Weight on Trailer must be Divided
While loading the trailer, always divides the total load by cutting it into half, 60% on the front side of the trailer while the other 40% on the rear side. Putting more weight on the rear side than the front, causes you to lose control. You must not increase ideal tongue load, 10% – 15% of total trailer load, by arranging weight with any other proportion.
Do not Connect Trailer’s Lighting to your Mazda
Avoid attaching the trailer’s light systems directly to your Mazda’s Lighting Systems. It might end up damaging the electric and lighting system. It’s recommended to have professional trailer dealers connect the system.
Do not Connect Trailer’s Hydraulic Brakes to your Mazda
Connecting a hydraulic trailer brake system directly to the vehicle brake system is dangerous and will result in inadequate braking.
Drive on Ascending or Descending Roads
Shift into a lower gear while ascending to reduce overloading and engine overheating. While descending, shift into a lower gear and use engine compression as a braking effect.
Reference:
Article’s data reference, CX 5 Owner’s Manual
Towing-Load Tables reference, 2021-2013 CX 5 Owner’s Manual
