Teresa’s View
In a super-sized world, the all-new Mazda5 flies in the face of convention. The most recent addition to the Mazda family looks like a miniaturized minivan. It’s as though zoom-zoom Mazda teamed up with space-savvy Ikea to create a car-based cross between a tall wagon, a minivan and a sporty hatchback.
To say the least, this is one versatile vehicle. Priced at just under $18,000 for the entry-level model (plus destination charges), the Mazda5 is a practical option for young families and active couples.
One of the most surprising aspects of this mini-minivan is how much passenger room the little guy affords. Even though Mazda packs three rows of seating into the 5, it doesn’t feel crowded. Instead, the airy cabin accommodates six occupants with surprising ease. Lots of windows and stadium-style seating contribute to the open feeling. With the exception of stiff seats that offer scant thigh support, the result is a comfortable fam-mobile.
A peppy 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine generates 157 horsepower and delivers decent gas mileage — 21 miles a gallon in city and 26 on the highway with the five-speed manual transmission. A four-speed automatic version with manual shift mode also is available.
The Mazda5 rides on the Mazda3’s sports-sedan platform. It’s both nimble and entertaining, especially with the manual shifter, unless loaded to the gills with passengers and gear.
What Is It?: The 2006 Mazda5 is a six-passenger compact minivan offered in two trims — Sport and Touring.
Gadget Rating: 7 of 10. The Sport includes an AM/FM/CD audio system, air conditioning and cruise control, plus power windows, mirrors and door locks. The Touring trim adds an in-dash, six-disc CD changer and a power moonroof. Gadget Central is clean and clearly marked. If only the audio controls were slightly larger for easier access while driving. Anti-lock brakes and side-curtain air bags are standard.
Cabin Highlight: This is how to do fake plastic. The effect is pleasing to the eye and appears reasonably resilient.
The Back Seat: Minivan-style sliding doors on each side and a low –step-in make loading and unloading a breeze. Second-row captain’s chairs provide clear access to the third row. They even recline for those lovely car naps. Clever storage bins are found under the second-row seats. One of the bins also houses a fold-out center console complete with cupholders, but appears to this mom to be of questionable durability.
Whine Alert: The temperature in the way back is hard to moderate.
Grocery Sack Test: The rear liftgate opens wide to a very limited cargo area. Fortunately, both rows of individually folding seats tumble forward, creating up to 44.4 cubic feet of packable space. Integrated lidded cubbies along each side of the cargo area are said to be large enough to store golf clubs.
Cheat Sheet: Ford owns one-third share of Mazda.
So, Where Are Ya From? The Mazda5 is assembled in Hiroshima, Japan.