Towing a boat with a CX-5

[Biglou65]

I'm currently pulling my small boat (1400 lbs, all-included, boat, 50 hp and trailer) with my POS Kia Sorento 2015, 3.3L. Blown head gasket with, now a new engine on extended Kia warranty, the dash is still lighting up like a x-mas tree (check engine codes). Fuel economy is beyond horrendous. I've had it, Gotta go!

I see that the CX-5 is rated at 2000 lbs, which would cut it. Question is, would it need, additional trailer e-brakes, transmission cooler, etc...? My shopping attention is focused on a used, non turbo, 2024 without the cylinder deactivation (''L'', 8th vin).

Is it feasible, or am I cutting it too close? The Sore-ento, was capable of 3500lbs when functioning

 

[ruthrj]

You’ll be fine to tow 1400 lbs with the 2.5 NA. Both generations have a 2k pound limit, the turbo included. Pay attention to how much cargo you have as that counts toward your tow capacity. Mazda has a requirement on the CX-5 for the trailer to have brakes if you’re towing more than 1k pounds. Double check the manual for the year you’re looking at, I found that in a 2019 owners manual.

Stick to the severe service schedule for oil changes for towing. 0w-20 should be fine, I’d consider 0w-30 or 5w-30 if you have hills to climb or very hot summers for added protection.

No transmission cooler necessary, can’t easily add one. The transmission fluid runs in a closed loop, only interfaces with the engine coolant via a coolant “warmer”.

Etrailer has kits for plugging in the trailer lights. Fairly straightforward to install. I’ve done it on two CX-5s without issues.

 

[ruthrj]

Oh, and if you want extra insurance the CX-50 2.5L Turbo has a 3500 pound tow capacity. Likely overkill but it is an option worth considering.

 

[N7turbo]

The only thing different with the CX-50 is the solid rear axle. Is that all it takes to bump up the tow capacity?