The Mazda CX-5 is a compact crossover SUV first produced for the 2013 model year and continuing through the present 2026 model year. It is offered in two generations, with front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations across multiple powertrain options including naturally aspirated gasoline, turbocharged gasoline, and turbocharged diesel engines.
This guide covers Mazda CX-5 towing capacity by model year, including maximum trailer weight, tongue weight limit, payload capacity, and hitch specifications for every available configuration. Following manufacturer-rated towing limits is essential for protecting the engine, transmission, cooling system, and braking hardware from premature wear and failure.
Quick Navigation
2026 Mazda CX-5 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.5L SKYACTIV-G inline-4 (187 hp, 185 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | AWD (standard) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 1,500 lbs / 680 kg |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 1,500 lbs / 680 kg |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | ~961 lbs / 436 kg |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Not published by manufacturer |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 150 lbs / 68 kg |
| Hitch Class | Class I |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 carries a manufacturer-rated maximum towing capacity of 1,500 lbs with the standard 2.5L engine. No turbocharged configuration is listed for the 2026 model year lineup. Adhering to the tongue weight and trailer weight limits protects the CX-5’s braking and drivetrain systems during towing.
2025 Mazda CX-5 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.5L SKYACTIV-G inline-4 (187 hp, 185 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 1,500 lbs / 680 kg |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 1,500 lbs / 680 kg |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | ~961 lbs / 436 kg |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Not published by manufacturer |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 150 lbs / 68 kg |
| Hitch Class | Class I |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 shares the same 2.5L naturally aspirated powertrain as the 2026 model and carries a comparable towing limit. The turbo configuration available in earlier years was not carried into this model year’s US lineup. Verifying towing limits through the owner’s manual before loading any trailer is always recommended.
2024 Mazda CX-5 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.5L SKYACTIV-G inline-4 (187 hp, 185 lb-ft); 2.5L SKYACTIV-G Turbo (256 hp, 320 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD (i-ACTIV AWD standard on most trims) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs / 907 kg |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs / 907 kg |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 961-996 lbs / 436-452 kg |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Not published by manufacturer |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 200 lbs / 91 kg |
| Hitch Class | Class II |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2024 Mazda CX-5 is rated for a maximum towing capacity of 2,000 lbs when equipped with the factory tow package. Both the standard 2.5L and turbocharged 2.5L configurations are rated at the same 2,000 lb trailer weight limit for the US market. The factory tow package includes a Class II receiver hitch and associated mounting hardware specific to the CX-5 chassis.
2023 Mazda CX-5 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.5L SKYACTIV-G inline-4 (187 hp, 186 lb-ft); 2.5L SKYACTIV-G Turbo (256 hp, 320 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs / 1,587 kg (Turbo / Turbo Signature); 2,000 lbs / 907 kg (all other trims) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs / 1,587 kg (Turbo); 2,000 lbs / 907 kg (standard) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | ~961 lbs / 436 kg |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Not published by manufacturer |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs / 159 kg (Turbo); 200 lbs / 91 kg (standard) |
| Hitch Class | Class III (Turbo); Class II (standard) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2023 Mazda CX-5 Turbo and Turbo Signature trims reach a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs / 1,587 kg, the highest rating in the CX-5’s production history for a gasoline engine. Standard trims equipped with the naturally aspirated 2.5L engine are limited to 2,000 lbs / 907 kg. Selecting the Turbo trim with the factory tow package is necessary to reach the 3,500 lb towing limit.
2022 Mazda CX-5 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.5L SKYACTIV-G inline-4 (187 hp, 186 lb-ft); 2.5L SKYACTIV-G Turbo (256 hp, 320 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs / 907 kg (all trims, including Turbo) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs / 907 kg |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | ~961 lbs / 436 kg |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Not published by manufacturer |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 200 lbs / 91 kg |
| Hitch Class | Class II |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2022 Mazda CX-5 carries a uniform towing limit of 2,000 lbs / 907 kg across all trim levels, including the Turbo and Turbo Signature configurations. The diesel engine option was not available in the 2022 US model year lineup. All trims use the same Class II receiver hitch configuration for conventional trailer towing.
2021 Mazda CX-5 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.5L SKYACTIV-G inline-4 (187 hp); 2.5L SKYACTIV-G Turbo (256 hp); 2.2L SKYACTIV-D Turbo Diesel (168 hp) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs / 1,587 kg (diesel); 2,000 lbs / 907 kg (gasoline, all variants) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs / 1,587 kg (diesel); 2,000 lbs / 907 kg (gasoline) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | ~961 lbs / 436 kg |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Not published by manufacturer |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs / 159 kg (diesel); 200 lbs / 91 kg (gasoline) |
| Hitch Class | Class III (diesel); Class II (gasoline) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2021 Mazda CX-5 with the 2.2L SKYACTIV-D turbocharged diesel engine reaches a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs / 1,587 kg. Gasoline configurations, including the turbocharged 2.5L variant, are rated at 2,000 lbs / 907 kg regardless of trim level. The diesel engine option was one of three model years to offer this powertrain in the US market.
2020 Mazda CX-5 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.5L SKYACTIV-G inline-4 (187 hp); 2.5L SKYACTIV-G Turbo (256 hp); 2.2L SKYACTIV-D Turbo Diesel (168 hp) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs / 1,587 kg (diesel); 2,000 lbs / 907 kg (gasoline) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs / 1,587 kg (diesel); 2,000 lbs / 907 kg (gasoline) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | ~961 lbs / 436 kg |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Not published by manufacturer |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs / 159 kg (diesel); 200 lbs / 91 kg (gasoline) |
| Hitch Class | Class III (diesel); Class II (gasoline) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2020 Mazda CX-5 shares the same powertrain and towing ratings as the 2021 model year. The SKYACTIV-D diesel configuration reaches the 3,500 lb / 1,587 kg maximum towing capacity, while all gasoline trims are capped at 2,000 lbs / 907 kg. Proper hitch selection is critical, as Class III equipment is required to safely reach the diesel model’s rated towing limit.
2019 Mazda CX-5 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.5L SKYACTIV-G inline-4 (187 hp, 186 lb-ft); 2.5L SKYACTIV-G Turbo (250 hp, 310 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs / 907 kg (all trims) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs / 907 kg |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | ~961 lbs / 436 kg |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Not published by manufacturer |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 200 lbs / 91 kg |
| Hitch Class | Class II |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2019 Mazda CX-5 is rated at 2,000 lbs / 907 kg across all engine and trim configurations. The diesel engine was not offered in the 2019 US model year. Both FWD and AWD variants share the same maximum trailer weight limit for this model year.
2018 Mazda CX-5 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.5L SKYACTIV-G inline-4 (187 hp, 186 lb-ft); 2.2L SKYACTIV-D Turbo Diesel (168 hp, 290 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs / 1,587 kg (diesel); 2,000 lbs / 907 kg (gasoline) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs / 1,587 kg (diesel); 2,000 lbs / 907 kg (gasoline) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | ~961 lbs / 436 kg |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Not published by manufacturer |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs / 159 kg (diesel); 200 lbs / 91 kg (gasoline) |
| Hitch Class | Class III (diesel); Class II (gasoline) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2018 Mazda CX-5 marks the second generation’s first year and introduced the SKYACTIV-D 2.2L turbocharged diesel engine option for the US market. Diesel-equipped models carry a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs / 1,587 kg, while gasoline versions are rated at 2,000 lbs / 907 kg. This was the first year that diesel towing capacity became available in the second-generation CX-5.
2017 Mazda CX-5 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.5L SKYACTIV-G inline-4 (187 hp, 185 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs / 907 kg |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs / 907 kg |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | ~961 lbs / 436 kg |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Not published by manufacturer |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 200 lbs / 91 kg |
| Hitch Class | Class II |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2017 Mazda CX-5 represents the first year of the second generation and is rated at 2,000 lbs / 907 kg for all configurations. The 2.0L engine from the first generation was replaced by a standard 2.5L SKYACTIV-G unit across the lineup. All trim levels share the same maximum trailer weight and tongue weight specifications for this model year.
2016 Mazda CX-5 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L SKYACTIV-G inline-4 (155 hp, 150 lb-ft); 2.5L SKYACTIV-G inline-4 (184 hp, 185 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs / 907 kg |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs / 907 kg |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | ~1,000 lbs / 454 kg |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Not published by manufacturer |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 200 lbs / 91 kg |
| Hitch Class | Class II |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2016 Mazda CX-5 is the final year of the first generation and carries a 2,000 lb / 907 kg towing limit across all engine and trim combinations. The 2.0L and 2.5L engine options both produce the same maximum trailer weight rating. No diesel or turbocharged configuration was available for this model year in the US market.
2015 Mazda CX-5 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L SKYACTIV-G inline-4 (155 hp, 150 lb-ft); 2.5L SKYACTIV-G inline-4 (184 hp, 185 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs / 907 kg |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs / 907 kg |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | ~1,000 lbs / 454 kg |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Not published by manufacturer |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 200 lbs / 91 kg |
| Hitch Class | Class II |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2015 Mazda CX-5 maintains a consistent towing limit of 2,000 lbs / 907 kg for all trims and both engine options. Neither engine size affects the rated maximum trailer weight in this model year. Both FWD and AWD models share identical towing specifications.
2014 Mazda CX-5 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L SKYACTIV-G inline-4 (155 hp, 150 lb-ft); 2.5L SKYACTIV-G inline-4 (184 hp, 185 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs / 907 kg |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs / 907 kg |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | ~1,000 lbs / 454 kg |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Not published by manufacturer |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 200 lbs / 91 kg |
| Hitch Class | Class II |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2014 Mazda CX-5 introduced the optional 2.5L SKYACTIV-G engine alongside the existing 2.0L unit, but both configurations share a 2,000 lb / 907 kg maximum towing capacity. This model year marks the first availability of the 2.5L engine in the CX-5 lineup. Towing specifications remained consistent with the 2013 model year.
2013 Mazda CX-5 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L SKYACTIV-G inline-4 (155 hp, 150 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs / 907 kg |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs / 907 kg |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,051 lbs / 477 kg |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 4,323 lbs / 1,961 kg (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 200 lbs / 91 kg |
| Hitch Class | Class II |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2013 Mazda CX-5 is the first model year of the nameplate and is rated at a maximum towing capacity of 2,000 lbs / 907 kg. Only the 2.0L SKYACTIV-G engine was available in the launch year, and this engine powers all first-year configurations. Payload capacity for this model year is rated at 1,051 lbs / 477 kg according to manufacturer specifications.
Towing Equipment and Setup
Tow Package
The factory Mazda CX-5 tow package includes a Class II receiver trailer hitch mounted to the vehicle’s frame. This receiver is designed specifically for the CX-5 chassis geometry. Mazda does not confirm whether a wiring harness is included with the factory package, so confirming harness compatibility before purchase is advised.
Trailer Brake Controller
The CX-5 does not include a built-in trailer brake controller. For trailers approaching the upper towing limit, an aftermarket brake controller is recommended. Trailer brakes significantly reduce stopping distance and reduce stress on the vehicle’s braking system.
Weight-Distributing Hitch
A weight-distributing hitch is not required for CX-5 towing at maximum rated capacity, as the vehicle does not approach Class IV or V towing thresholds. However, for loads exceeding 1,500 lbs / 680 kg on AWD models, distributing hitch weight evenly improves steering response and braking control. This is particularly relevant when towing near the 2,000 lb / 907 kg or 3,500 lb / 1,587 kg limits.
Transmission Cooler
The CX-5 uses a SKYACTIV-Drive 6-speed automatic transmission in all modern configurations. Extended towing near maximum rated capacity generates additional thermal load on the transmission fluid. Installing an aftermarket transmission cooler is advisable for repeated or long-distance towing tasks near the rated trailer weight limit.
Tire Load Ratings
The tires fitted to any CX-5 configuration must be rated to support the combined gross vehicle weight when towing near maximum capacity. Overloading tires beyond their load index causes heat buildup and increases blowout risk. Always confirm the tire load index against the total gross combined weight before towing.
Trailer Sway Control
The Mazda CX-5 is equipped with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), which provides baseline trailer sway mitigation. Aftermarket trailer sway control devices further reduce lateral movement of the trailer. This is especially important when operating near the 3,500 lb / 1,587 kg diesel or turbo towing limit.
Normal Towing vs. Heavy Towing Setup
| Factor | Normal Towing (Under 1,500 lbs) | Heavy Towing (1,500-3,500 lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| Hitch Class Required | Class I or II | Class II or III |
| Trailer Brake Controller | Not required | Recommended |
| Weight-Distributing Hitch | Not required | Recommended |
| Transmission Cooler | Not required | Recommended |
| Trailer Sway Device | Not required | Recommended |
| Maximum Tongue Weight | Up to 150 lbs / 68 kg | Up to 350 lbs / 159 kg |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum towing capacity of a Mazda CX-5?
The maximum towing capacity of a Mazda CX-5 is 3,500 lbs / 1,587 kg. This figure applies only to models equipped with either the 2.2L SKYACTIV-D turbocharged diesel (2018, 2020, 2021) or the 2.5L turbocharged gasoline engine in the 2023 Turbo and Turbo Signature trims. All other configurations are rated at 2,000 lbs / 907 kg or lower.
How much can a Mazda CX-5 tow with a tow package?
With the factory tow package installed, a standard Mazda CX-5 equipped with the naturally aspirated 2.5L engine can tow a maximum of 2,000 lbs / 907 kg. Models with the turbocharged 2.5L engine in the 2023 model year or with the diesel engine in 2018, 2020, and 2021 can reach 3,500 lbs / 1,587 kg with the appropriate tow package. Towing capacity is not achievable without the factory or aftermarket hitch receiver installed.
Does AWD affect Mazda CX-5 towing capacity?
AWD configuration does not independently increase the rated towing capacity of the Mazda CX-5. Towing capacity is primarily determined by engine type, with turbocharged and diesel configurations offering the higher 3,500 lb rating. Both FWD and AWD variants with the same engine share identical manufacturer towing specifications.
What trailer weight is safe for a Mazda CX-5?
A safe trailer weight for the Mazda CX-5 is at or below the manufacturer-rated limit for the specific engine and model year configuration. For most gasoline-powered models, this means keeping total trailer weight at or below 2,000 lbs / 907 kg. For unbraked trailers, the safe towing limit is generally 1,000 lbs / 454 kg or lower, well below the braked trailer weight rating.
Do I need a weight-distributing hitch for a Mazda CX-5?
A weight-distributing hitch is not required by Mazda for CX-5 towing within rated limits. However, for trailer weights above 1,500 lbs, distributing hitch weight across the axles improves handling and braking stability. Consulting the owner’s manual and a qualified hitch installer before towing near maximum trailer weight is recommended.
What hitch class does the Mazda CX-5 use?
The standard factory tow package for the Mazda CX-5 uses a Class II receiver hitch rated for conventional towing tasks. For diesel or turbocharged trims reaching 3,500 lbs / 1,587 kg, a Class III aftermarket hitch with a 2-inch x 2-inch receiver provides the appropriate rating and clearance. The CX-5 does not support Class IV or V hitches due to its compact crossover frame construction.
Conclusion
The Mazda CX-5 towing capacity ranges from 1,500 lbs / 680 kg in the most recent model years to 3,500 lbs / 1,587 kg in select configurations equipped with turbocharged diesel or turbocharged gasoline engines. Most model years across the 2013-2024 production span are rated at 2,000 lbs / 907 kg with the standard naturally aspirated gasoline engine. Engine type is the single most significant factor determining the towing limit, with drivetrain configuration playing a secondary role.
The factory tow package and correct hitch class are required to reach any published towing limit. Towing at or above 1,500 lbs warrants consideration of a trailer brake controller, load-leveling measures, and adequate transmission cooling. Model years 2018, 2020, 2021, and 2023 Turbo/Turbo Signature trims offer the highest towing ratings in the CX-5 lineup.
