Rent Mazda CX-5 2023 in Dubai

Start with the boot, because that's what catches renters out. People book a compact crossover for an airport week, then find out at the kerb that two large cases won't go in. The Mazda CX-5 2023 is where that problem stops. It holds 438 litres with all five seats up, enough for two big check-in cases flat on the floor and soft bags over them. That's why we keep it in our Dubai fleet as the luggage car of the standard SUV class. We can bring it to your door or your hotel within a couple of hours, and delivery is free on rentals of three days or more.

How the luggage actually goes in

The litre figure matters less than the shape, and the CX-5's boot is a good shape. The opening is wide, the floor is flat, and there's no tall lip to heave cases over. Two full-size check-in cases lie flat side by side. Cabin trolleys and backpacks stack on top without pressing against the glass. A family of four flying out of DXB with normal holiday luggage fits with room left for the duty free.

Where it runs out: three large cases plus four passengers. At that point you're folding part of the split rear seat, and someone loses their spot. Be honest with yourself about the luggage count before you book. Four people and four big cases is a seven-seater job, not a CX-5 job.

Room for the people carrying it

Four adults sit properly. The rear bench has decent legroom for anyone under six foot, and the seats are firmer and more supportive than most rivals at this money, which you'll appreciate on the drive back from Abu Dhabi. The fifth seat works for a child or a short hop, not for a fourth adult on a long run. Child seats are required by law for under fours here, so tell us the ages when you book and we'll sort the seats.

Driving it around Dubai

The 2.5 litre engine has 188 hp and no turbo, so power arrives smoothly and the car never feels caught out joining Sheikh Zayed Road traffic. It cruises at the limit quietly and overtakes without drama. In summer the cabin does what you'd hope: the AC pulls a sun-baked interior down to comfortable within a few minutes of driving, and rear vents keep the back seats liveable, which smaller crossovers often can't claim.

Practical points. Salik tolls and any RTA fines are billed to you as the driver, so keep an eye on the speed cameras. The 193 mm of clearance clears mall ramps and speed bumps without a thought. Fuel policy is full to full, and the 58 litre tank means a normal city week usually needs one stop at the pump, not three.

Who should take it, and who shouldn't

Rent the CX-5 2023 if you're two to four people with real luggage: airport runs, a week of family errands, a weekend down the coast. It's the sensible pick in its class for exactly that job, and the drivetrain is strong enough that you never think about it.

Skip it if you're travelling light and staying inside the city, because a hatchback does that for less. And if your party is five adults with five cases, don't try to make it work. Take a seven-seater and arrive with your shoulders down. Booking with us is low-risk either way: cancellation is free up to 48 hours before pickup, and you can pay by card, cash, or Apple Pay when the car arrives.