Storm Season Ready: How the 2026 Mazda CX-70 Handles Winter Gear Loads

For drivers across Vancouver Island, winter getaways to Tofino's dramatic coastline or the ancient rainforests near Port Renfrew demand a vehicle that balances comfort with serious cargo capacity. The 2026 Mazda CX-70 delivers both, offering a two-row SUV designed to carry everything from storm-watching gear to hiking equipment without sacrificing the refined driving experience Mazda is known for.

Whether you're packing for a family storm-watching weekend or loading up for winter surfing sessions on Cox Bay, the CX-70's thoughtfully engineered cargo area provides the space and versatility needed for British Columbia's most popular cold-weather destinations.

Cargo Volume: Built for Vancouver Island Winters

The 2026 CX-70 offers substantial cargo capacity across its trim lineup, with figures that rival many larger three-row SUVs while maintaining a more manageable footprint for Victoria's urban streets and rain-slicked Island highways.

2026 Mazda CX-70 Cargo Capacity:

With 1,131 litres behind the second row, the CX-70 easily accommodates winter essentials—rain gear, coolers, camera equipment for storm photography, and extra layers for unpredictable coastal weather. Fold the rear seats flat, and you unlock 2,147 litres of maximum cargo space, enough for wetsuits, surfboards, hiking packs, or a full week's worth of gear for extended Island explorations.

For comparison, the CX-70's cargo volume exceeds many popular competitors. The 2026 Honda CR-V offers 1,028 litres with seats up, while the CX-70 provides over 100 litres more space—a meaningful difference when packing for multi-day trips to remote Island destinations during the wet season.

Optimized Storage for Storm Season Adventures

Beyond raw volume, the CX-70's cargo area features practical design elements that make loading and organizing wet gear easier. Remote-folding rear seats allow you to drop the second row from the liftgate, eliminating the need to climb inside when loading bulky items like damp wetsuits or muddy hiking boots. Additional compartments, hooks for bags and equipment, and a unique sub-trunk design provide secure storage for valuables and smaller items you want to keep out of sight.

The hands-free power liftgate, standard on GS-L and higher trims, proves especially useful when your hands are full of rain-soaked gear or groceries after a long day on the coast.

Towing Capacity: Bringing Your Gear Along

The CX-70's capability extends beyond cargo space. When equipped with Mazda Genuine Towing Accessories, the CX-70 can tow up to 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs) on GS-L, GT, GT-P, and Signature trims. This capacity handles utility trailers for larger equipment or enclosed trailers for keeping gear dry during the rainy season.

Towing Mode, included in Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive), optimizes throttle response and transmission shift points for confident towing performance on Highway 4 to Tofino or the winding, wet roads to Port Renfrew.

Powertrain Options: Efficiency and Performance

The 2026 CX-70 offers two powertrain choices, both paired with standard i-Activ all-wheel drive—essential for Vancouver Island's rain-soaked winter roads—and an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Mild Hybrid (MHEV) Models:

The e-Skyactiv G 3.3 L inline-six turbocharged engine produces 280 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque on regular fuel, with a high-output variant available on GT-P and Signature trims. Fuel economy estimates are 9.9 L/100 km city, 8.4 L/100 km highway, and 9.3 L/100 km combined—competitive for a vehicle of this size and capability.

Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) Models:

The e-Skyactiv PHEV powertrain delivers 323 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel, offering up to 51 km of electric-only range on SC trims. For Victoria-area drivers making frequent short trips, the PHEV provides electric-only commuting capability while retaining full gasoline range for weekend Island adventures.

Interior Comfort for Rainy Day Drives

Long drives to Tofino or Port Renfrew through winter rain demand comfortable seating and refined cabin environments. The CX-70 delivers with available Nappa leather upholstery, heated front and rear seats for cold mornings, and a panoramic moonroof that brings in natural light during grey coastal days. A Bose 12-speaker premium audio system (standard on GT and higher trims) ensures clear sound quality even on Highway 4's windier sections.

The 12.3-inch Mazda Connect centre display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration keeps navigation and entertainment easily accessible, while Alexa Built-In allows voice control for climate, audio, and navigation without taking hands off the wheel—particularly useful when roads are wet and visibility is reduced.

Safety Features for Winter Island Roads

British Columbia's Island highways present unique winter challenges—wildlife crossings, narrow two-lane sections, reduced visibility, and rain-slicked pavement. The CX-70's i-Activsense safety suite includes Smart Brake Support, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Keep Assist, and Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go. Higher trims add Front Cross Traffic Alert, a 360° View Monitor, and Driver Monitoring for enhanced awareness in all conditions.

The standard i-Activ AWD system continuously monitors road conditions and adjusts power distribution to maintain traction on wet or slippery surfaces—a welcome feature during Tofino's legendary storm season.

Your Storm-Season SUV Awaits in Victoria

The 2026 Mazda CX-70 pairs practical cargo capacity, confident all-weather capability, and refined driving dynamics—making it an ideal companion for Vancouver Island's winter adventures. Whether you're heading to Tofino for world-famous storm watching or exploring the moss-draped trails around Port Renfrew, the CX-70 provides the space and capability to bring everything you need.

Visit Pacific Mazda in Victoria to experience the CX-70's cargo versatility firsthand and discover how it handles the Island's winter roads.