2008 Mazda 5: Tester's Comments
2008 Mazda 5 ▼
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- MSRP: $17,995 -$22,515
- Invoice: $16,849 -$21,063
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Find out what the Consumer Guide Automotive testers had to say about the 2008 Mazda 5. See if the 2008 Mazda 5 is right for you.
Vehicle Evaluated
| Make/Model: | 2008 Mazda 5 |
|---|---|
| Trim Level: | Grand Touring |
| Arrival Date: | 04/16/2008 |
| Engine: | dohc I4 |
| Bodystyle | 4-door wagon |
| Transmission: | 5-speed automatic |
| 4WD/AWD: | No |
| Base Price: | 22,365 |
| Price as Tested: | 25,480 |
| Mileage at Beginning of Test: | 6352 |
| Mileage at End of Test: | 6813 |
| Total Measured Miles: | 461 |
| Total Fuel Used: | 19.198 gals. |
| Consumer Guide Fuel Economy: | 24.12 mpg (what's this?) |
| Problems During Test: | None |
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Major Options
Rear Bumper Step Plate, Sirius Satellite Radio, Navigation System
From the Back Seat
Damon Bell
The Mazda 5 is a sensibly sized, space-efficient "mini minivan" that's also really fun to drive. It offers more cargo versatility than a traditional sedan, but better handling and fuel economy than a typical minivan.
Don Sikora
The Mazda 5 is an interesting substitute for a small or mid-size SUV. The prices are attractive, there is a definite sporty personality, and a surprising amount of passenger or cargo room inside its modestly sized package. Gas mileage should be better too. The Mazda 5 is sportier and more stylish than the similar-in-concept Kia Rondo, but the Rondo seems a bit more refined and just generally more pleasant in everyday commuting. Drive them both.
Ed Piotrowski
Mazda recently sponsored a press dinner to extol the virtues of the freshened-for-2008 5. During that time, company officials said this vehicle was designed primarily for the European and Japanese markets. The 5 is still a profitable vehicle in North America, despite modest sales of 10,000-12,000. Those who do select this vehicle, I think, know something that the rest of the auto-buying market needs to discover. This unconventional people and cargo hauler is surprisingly refined and fun to drive. Though fuel economy could be a bit better, 5 is a good value for the money overall, provided you stick with the Sport or Touring trim.
Tom Appel
The affordable, frugal Mazda 5 makes a whole lot of sense for small families and empty nesters who only occasionally need extra seating. This likable vanlette has plenty of room for four adults and rides and handles like a sedan. If the 5 is working for you, be sure to check out Kia's equally impressive Rondo. Both of these rides are slightly ahead of the curve.
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