What Crossbar Setup and Cargo Box do You Recommend for My Bare Roof 2020 Mazda CX-5?

Question:

I have a 2020 Mazda CX-5. I like the idea of the Rhino rack setup as it will bolt right on and will not need the clip style foot packs. That said I do intend to get a roof rack cargo box. What is the distance on center for the stock mount locations on the 2020 CX-5?

asked by: Peter B

Expert Reply:

I believe you are referring to the following Rhino-Rack setup for your bare-roof 2020 Mazda CX-5

- Rhino-Rack Vortex Aero Crossbars - Aluminum - Black - 46" # RRVA118B-2
- RCL Legs for Rhino-Rack Crossbars and Pioneer Platforms - Fixed Mounting Points # RRRCL4
- Custom RCP Fit Kit for 4 Rhino-Rack RC and RV Series Roof Rack Legs - Fixed Mounting Points # RRRCP48-BK

With this particular system, we unfortunately do not have the specific spread between the fixed mounting points on your 2020 Mazda CX-5 because we have not had the chance to make an install video of the rack on the 2020 model. However, we did install the rack on a 2016 model. I went ahead and attached the video to provide you perspective about the crossbar spread with this setup. If you wish to have a definite measurement of the crossbar spread between the fixed mounting points, I recommend measuring the mounting holes from hole-to-hole on your roof.

As far as a cargo box, I recommend theYakima SkyBox NX 16 Rooftop Cargo Box - 16 cu ft - Black Carbonite
Item # Y95AV. With the SkyBox NX 16, you not only receive an aerodynamic box, you also get 2 included same-key locks to protect your cargo and the box itself from theft. In order to determine if your trunk can open completely with the box installed, you need to have at least 47 inches of space between the front crossbar mounting point to the line where the roof and hatch meet. I went ahead and attached a diagram that shows you how to conduct this measurement to confirm if you have enough length on your roof.