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2006 Mazda5 GT Road Test

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Khatir Soltani
Ultimately Practical Yet Unconscientiously Fun
Most likely the 5 will be better received in Canada, where top selling vehicles include compact cars and midsize minivans. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)
While a bit softer in the spring settings than the ultra-agile 3, the 5 is no slouch in the corners. Actually, I was surprised at what the little van could do, and how controlled its transitional response when it's mass suddenly switched sides through slalom-like back-to-back corners. I soon learned I could push it harder than I had initially been, becoming more and more enamored with the diminutive people hauler with each passing mile.

Like I said in the beginning of this road test, all Mazda has to do in order to sell boatloads of the 5 is to get prospective customers behind its ergonomically correct steering wheel. The vehicle will do the rest. Most likely it will be better received here in Canada, where top selling vehicles include compact cars and midsize minivans, than it will south of the 49th where midsize sedans and SUVs are most popular. And in case you've forgotten there's precedent for this type of vehicle too. If you think way back to the late '80s and early '90s, you may remember the popular Colt Vista, made by Mitsubishi but sold in Canada as a Dodge. Or how about the quirky Nissan Axxess micro-van that sold from model year 1990 to 1995. These were quite popular in their time, and those who currently own them are still extremely loyal to their compact rides.

But these segment forerunners may have been too early to market, what with fuel efficiency now one of the most important decisions a family needs to consider prior to buying a new vehicle. This makes the Mazda5 ideal for smaller families with two to three young children, especially those that need a break at the gas pump, or equally pinched empty-nesters on fixed incomes who might take the grandkids to the park from time to time.

The base GL model's sub-$20K price tag will without doubt be enticing. (Photo: Mazda Canada)
To these, the base GL model's sub-$20K price tag will without doubt be enticing, and good news is that the vehicle's standard feature list won't exactly leave them wishing for too much more, except maybe its optional air conditioning with automatic climate control. Base features include four-wheel discs with standard ABS, electronic brake force distribution and brake assist, power windows, power locks with remote access, 16-inch wheels on 205/55R16 all-season tires, rain-sensing intermittent wipers, intermittent rear wiper, dual rear sliding doors, tilt and telescopic steering, micron air filtration, plus a great deal more.
Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
As a car enthusiast, he tests and compares vehicles from different categories through the eyes of the consumer, ensuring relevant and objective reviews.
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada