The popularity of minivans might be on the decline, but there are still consumers who find them a good fit for their lifestyles. The perfect minivan is probably the one with the more reasonable size; after all, not every parent needs to drive around a bunch of young soccer players on a regular basis. On the other hand, car drivers who look for a bit more space to carry baby stuff, camping gear, a pair of bikes or even a set of drums for their future Charlie Watts need a bigger vehicle.
Enters the 2008 Mazda5.
As the first true modern minivan introduced in North America, the Mazda5 replaced the aging MPV in 2006. It's actually much smaller than every other minivan on the market and quite modern compared to a similar model that started a trend back in the 1980s: the Dodge Caravan.
Heir to the Caravan!
Almost 30 years later, consumer needs have changed radically. The idyllic image of family transportation portrayed by the original Caravan has vanished. Minivans have become overweight and fuel-thirsty, so much so that we shouldn't even be talking about "mini"vans. The more macho SUVs have gradually eclipsed them, while rising gas prices have made them costly to own.
In an ever-changing market, the Mazda5 managed to carve its own little niche. With stylish lines outlining a sleek body, a convenient size, reasonable fuel economy and a very affordable price, it proves to be a smart alternative to classic sliding-door people haulers. In fact, the Mazda5 is so popular that it became the company's second best-selling model in Canada in 2006.
Enters the 2008 Mazda5.
 |
| Mazda Canada's second best-selling model managed to carve its own little niche in an ever-changing market. |
As the first true modern minivan introduced in North America, the Mazda5 replaced the aging MPV in 2006. It's actually much smaller than every other minivan on the market and quite modern compared to a similar model that started a trend back in the 1980s: the Dodge Caravan.
Heir to the Caravan!
Almost 30 years later, consumer needs have changed radically. The idyllic image of family transportation portrayed by the original Caravan has vanished. Minivans have become overweight and fuel-thirsty, so much so that we shouldn't even be talking about "mini"vans. The more macho SUVs have gradually eclipsed them, while rising gas prices have made them costly to own.
In an ever-changing market, the Mazda5 managed to carve its own little niche. With stylish lines outlining a sleek body, a convenient size, reasonable fuel economy and a very affordable price, it proves to be a smart alternative to classic sliding-door people haulers. In fact, the Mazda5 is so popular that it became the company's second best-selling model in Canada in 2006.
 |
| The 2008 Mazda5 boasts more features than its predecessor. |