2006-2008 Mazda 5: Road Test

Acceleration is responsive in most situations with the manual transmission, which demonstrates slick shifting coupled to smooth clutch action. Performance is adequate with the power-sapping automatic, but some passing maneuvers demand planning. Takeoffs and passing sprints feel sluggish even without a load, though using the manual shift gate compensates somewhat. Fuel economy beats some rival models. Expect overall real-world averages to mirror the EPA rated city mpg. Test Touring models with automatic averaged 21.8 to 22 mpg. Ride quality ranks as firm but never harsh or unpleasant, with little pitch or float, and generally good small-bump absorption. Rock-solid structural feel enhances the sense of comfort. Some jolting may be felt over sharp bumps and pavement seams, but the Mazda 5 is nicely settled on wavy surfaces. Surprisingly sporty, the Mazda 5 operates with good grip and modest body lean in corners, aided by responsive steering. Fine road feel is accompanied by a tight turning circle for appealing maneuverability. Directional stability is very good even in strong crosswinds. Still, a Mazda 5 is less agile and fun than the shorter, lower Chrysler PT Cruiser and Toyota Matrix/Pontiac Vibe. Overall quietness is marred by an engine that throbs at idle and is a bit noisy at full throttle, but cruises quietly. Wind noise is modest at highway speeds, but coarse pavement induces audible tire thrum that resonates through the large, open interior. Switchgear is simple and handy, but climate controls are easy to hit by accident when moving the shift lever. Gauges are hard to read in some daylight conditions. So is the pop-up dashboard screen for the optional navigation system, which works well otherwise. The Mazda 5's stylish cabin belies this vehicle's modest new-car pricing, with upscale soft-touch surfaces, metal-look accents, and sturdy good-feeling fabrics. The transmission's gear selector sprouts from the lower middle of the dashboard, which may seem odd at first. Seats are elevated more than in most cars, but visibility is not the best to right-rear and dead astern. The broad dashtop imparts a minivan feel, offset by the standard tilt/telescopic steering wheel and pump-handle seat-height adjuster. Firm front seats are rather flat with short cushions, but seem comfortable enough and offer just enough lateral support. Head room is good for six-footers, but leg room a tad skimpy even with seats at full stretch. Very tall drivers might prefer a longer cushion and more rearward seat travel. All rear seats are a bit small and hard for best adult comfort, and the cramped third row is strictly for youngsters. Terrific second-row head and leg room are augmented by slide/recline adjustments, but some testers have felt that the seats are too firm for best comfort. Sliding doors provide easy second-row access; third row demands major contortions. Cargo loads easily through low-lip side doors and liftgate, which just barely clears six-footer heads. Only grocery-bag space exists behind the third row, which offers less total volume than most rivals. On the other hand, the four rear seatbacks drop easily to nearly flat, and can be arranged for different passenger/cargo loads. Abundant small-item storage includes hidden trays under second-row seat cushions and the rear cargo floor.

Value for the Money
Mazda 5 combines sportwagon flair with minivan versatility in a well-made, sensibly-sized package to suit a variety of lifestyles. In addition to appealing fuel economy, you get outstanding room for four adults and, in the third row, a couple of youngsters. Not everyone calls it huge fun to drive, but Mazda 5 scores well on features for the price.