The Mazda CX 90 cargo space is one of the most important features shoppers evaluate when comparing three-row SUVs. If you’re considering this model for family travel, daily commuting, or long road trips, understanding how much room you actually get behind each seating row becomes essential. In this detailed Mazda CX 90 cargo space review, you’ll learn how the SUV performs in real-world use, how its measurements compare with competitors, and what you can expect when configuring the seats for maximum utility.
Understanding the Mazda CX 90 Cargo Space
Mazda designed the CX 90 to be both elegant and practical, which means its cargo numbers reflect a balance between passenger comfort and usable storage room. With all three rows upright, the SUV offers about 15.9 cubic feet of space. This capacity accommodates daily essentials such as shopping bags, backpacks, a stroller, or a few small suitcases, making it manageable for short trips even when the vehicle is fully occupied.
Once the third row is folded down, the available space expands significantly. The vehicle opens up to around 40 cubic feet of cargo room, which creates far more flexibility. In everyday scenarios, this configuration is the one most owners tend to use because it preserves second-row seating while dramatically increasing storage. It becomes suitable for weekend luggage, sports equipment, camping supplies, or several medium to large suitcases.
When both the second and third rows are folded, the Mazda CX 90 reaches its maximum cargo capacity of about 75.2 cubic feet. At this point, the vehicle transforms from a family SUV into a capable hauler. Large boxes, furniture pieces, bicycles, and extensive travel gear become far easier to transport. Although the vehicle does not match the absolute cargo leaders in the segment, the CX 90 offers a practical and versatile load floor that adapts to many everyday needs.
Real-World Impressions of Mazda CX 90 Cargo Space
Numbers alone don’t always tell the full story. The true test of the Mazda CX 90 cargo space is how it performs when you load it with real items. In practice, the 15.9 cubic feet behind the third row can manage small suitcases and soft bags, though larger families may find this limited when all seats are in use. The space becomes much more comfortable as soon as the third row folds, making room for everything from full-size suitcases to outdoor gear like folding chairs or coolers.
When set to maximum storage mode, the CX 90 offers a long and flat cargo floor. Drivers who frequently transport larger items appreciate how efficiently the interior accommodates tall or bulky objects. The load-in height is manageable for most items, though some reviewers note that the liftgate does not open as high as certain competitors. This could mean taller users need to be aware of clearance when loading heavier or oversized cargo.
How Mazda CX 90 Cargo Space Compares to Competitors
In its segment, the Mazda CX 90 performs admirably against both mainstream and luxury three-row SUVs. Its cargo measurements are similar to models like the Volvo XC90, and in certain luggage tests it surpasses premium vehicles such as the Cadillac XT6. Some utilitarian SUVs offer more room behind the third row, but the CX 90 prioritizes a refined interior layout rather than maximizing every cubic inch for storage. As a result, the cargo space may feel slightly smaller than some rivals, but its finish, design, and seat-folding mechanisms create a more polished experience.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Mazda CX 90 Cargo Space
Optimizing the Mazda CX 90 cargo area starts with choosing the right seating configuration for your needs. Most families find that driving with the third row folded provides the ideal balance of passenger space and storage. The interior also includes helpful features such as cargo anchors, small side compartments, and under-floor storage areas, all of which help keep items organized and prevent movement during travel. For long road trips or outdoor activities, planning the layout of your luggage in advance helps you make full use of the available length and width, which are generous enough to carry long or irregularly shaped items.
Who Benefits Most from the CX 90 Cargo Layout
The Mazda CX 90 is especially well-suited to families who need seating flexibility but also want an elegant, well-built cabin. Drivers who frequently transition between passenger and cargo use will appreciate how easy it is to fold the rear seats as needed. Travelers who take occasional long trips or purchase large items from time to time will find the maximum cargo space particularly practical.
Those who use their SUV primarily for hauling or need exceptional space behind the third row may prefer a more utility-focused large SUV or even a minivan. The CX 90’s design emphasizes passenger comfort and premium build quality, which means some cargo-centric features in competing models may not be present here.
FAQs About Mazda CX 90 Cargo Space
How much cargo space is available behind the third row?
The Mazda CX 90 provides approximately 15.9 cubic feet behind the third row, enough for small bags or daily necessities.
How much room do you get when the third row is folded?
With only the third row down, the vehicle offers about 40 cubic feet of cargo space, which is ideal for moderate-sized loads.
What is the maximum cargo capacity of the CX 90?
With both rear rows folded flat, the CX 90 reaches approximately 75.2 cubic feet of storage.
Is the cargo space practical for long trips?
Yes. The expanded cargo configurations work well for suitcases, coolers, camping equipment, and similar adventure gear.
How does the Mazda CX 90 compare to competitors?
It performs well against many three-row SUVs, especially luxury models, though a few larger or more utility-centric vehicles offer more capacity behind all seats.
Conclusion
The Mazda CX 90 cargo space is designed for drivers who value a combination of practicality, comfort, and refined styling. While 15.9 cubic feet behind the third row offers modest room for daily use, folding the third row unlocks a far more generous and versatile space that suits most travel needs. The full 75.2-cubic-foot capacity makes the SUV surprisingly capable when you need to move larger items. Overall, the CX 90 strikes a thoughtful balance between passenger seating and cargo utility, making it an excellent choice for families and drivers seeking both flexibility and sophistication. Its cargo layout works best for those who want adaptability rather than a pure cargo-first design, allowing the SUV to remain stylish and comfortable while still handling real-world storage demands.
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