I have a Mazda3 Sport - that is the hatchback version. I can get two pallets into it, just. I know Mazda has the "sporty" reputation, but I am not a performance car person, and I like it just fine. I had a Subaru Outback before that, and I think it held a bit more, but was definitely more expensive to run with the AWD. However, it did have higher ground clearance, which can be an advantage when parking in fields (i.e. fairs). Both have easy-to-put-down back seats, I think the Mazda is a bit easier. I also like the rear cover better on the Mazda, to hide whatever is in the back. In neither of them do the back seats sit perfectly flat, unfortunately
General advice, this is what I did - take whatever you are likely to carry a lot to the dealership - I took my dog's crate. if it wouldn't go in the back of a car, I didn't want that car ;-) Also, how much of a lip is there at the back and how wide is the actual hatch opening? Many years ago I had a Saab hatchback, before they got crazy expensive - I loved that car, flat at the back (no lip), so it was easy to get things in and out, very wide opening so no problem with wide loads getting stuck going in or out, seats went down perfectly flat (but with more difficulty, you actually had to fold the bench down instead of just the seat backs).
I like buying cars in winter, you get to see how they drive in rotten conditions - I test drove my first Mazda in December, in snow, over a windy route and very windy bridge, snow-covered parking lots, slushy highways. Now that it is April, you can't do that (I hope, winter has gone on long enough), but a test drive in a bad storm (heavy rain, lots of wind) would be a good idea. Plus you would be the only person at the dealership ;-) And if they don't want you driving a test car in those conditions, what does that say about the car?
Since you have no dealership love any more, if there are two cars you like about the same, which one has a better local dealership? I really like my dealership, they do good work at a reasonable price (not much more that the local Canadian Tire), are really good about loaners if needed, had all sorts of awards for service. Especially if your car is still under warranty, your dealership matters.