Mazda is hopeful that its 2006 Mazda 5 will appeal to consumers who need a people hauler, but with a bit less space than a typical minivan.
The typical minivan has been a popular choice for families for the past 20 years. Over that time, minivans have grown larger and so have their engines.
While there continues to be a market for the crowd that likes bigger and stronger minivans, Mazda believes there’s a crowd that wants a smaller people hauler that’s a bit more efficient when it comes to sipping fuel.
That’s where the 2006 Mazda 5 fits in. At 181.5-inches in length and 69.1-inches in width, the Mazda 5 is about two feet shorter and roughly 8-inches narrower than a typical minivan.
If a typical minivan is more vehicle than you need, the 2006 Mazda 5 should be on your shopping list. We like its sporty profile and short overhangs.
With sleek, sweeping lines, the Mazda 5 has good curb appeal. There’s much to like inside the Mazda 5, too. My family enjoyed the “theater-style� seating.
The Mazda 5 accommodates six passengers and each row is mounted a little higher than the one in front to improve visibility for all passengers.
Besides the theater-style seating that my family enjoyed, another likeable feature are the sliding rear doors. Not only are they easy to open and close, but they feature large glass windows that go all the way down.
The second row has separate individual seats that slide and recline and can be folded flat without removing their headrests. They feature a one-touch lever that automatically tips the seatback forward and slides the cushion to its front most position to allow access to the third row.
The third row seats are split 50:50. They can be tipped forward individually and folded flat to create a flat load area, ideal for carrying mountain bikes or bulky sports equipment.
While space in the third row is tight and better suited for children, the Mazda 5 features a clever, flexible and versatile cabin built for comfort and convenience.
With the rear-most seats folded flat, carrying capacity is 44.4 cubic feet. Fold the second row and the load floor area is over 63 inches long. Even with all six seats in the ‘up’ position, the luggage area is still large enough to carry a standard baby carriage.
Interior storage space includes 45 compartments, including a vast, illuminated glovebox and half-liter bottle holders in each front door pocket.
Powering the Mazda 5 is a 2.3-liter, four-cylinder engine, good for 157 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque. Similar to the MZR-series engine in the Mazda 3 and Mazda 6, the engine has 16-valves, double overhead camshafts and is all-aluminum for light weight, which in turn improves handling by minimizing weight over the front axle.
Power is distributed to the front wheels through a standard 5-speed manual gearbox, or optional 4-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy is 22/27 with the manual and 21/26 with the automatic
The 2.3-liter four-cylinder is peppy, but feels strained when the Mazda 5 is loaded down with passengers and cargo. The suspension is fully independent, which provides a nice ride.
At just 3,333 lbs., the MAZDA 5 ‘s light weight contributes to its spirited ride, responsive handling and good gas mileage.
The Mazda 5 is available in two configurations, Sport and Touring. Priced at $17,435, the Sport trim includes 17-inch alloy wheels, ABS, air conditioning with cabin filtration, a CD stereo, keyless entry, cruise control, and power windows, mirrors and locks.
Move up to the Touring trim ($18,950) and you’ll get a sunroof, automatic climate control, an upgraded MP3-compatible stereo with an in-dash CD changer, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and front foglights.
2006 Mazda 5 Touring
Engine 2.3-liter (157 hp) I4
Transmission 4-speed automatic
Drive Type FWD
Fuel Economy 21 city/26 highway
Base Price $18,950
As Tested $20,410 (including $560 for destination)
Website http://www.mazdausa.com |