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| Even fully loaded with automatic climate control and an automatic transmission, the GT tops out at $24,995. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
If you're still wondering why air conditioning isn't included in base trim, it also remains optional in top-line GT trim for some reason, especially odd considering this level includes a power glass sunroof, fog lamps, 17-inch alloy wheels on 205/50R17 all-season performance tires, two extra stereo speakers for a total of six, the steering wheel mounted controls on that leather steering wheel and shift knob that I like so much, side-impact and side-curtain airbags that I hope I'll never need to appreciate, an alarm system, plus an "easy close sliding door system" that pulls the door rear sliders shut when they're slightly ajar, just like in a BMW 7-Series or top-line Lexus LS 430, and a lot more for just $22,795. Even fully loaded with automatic climate control and an automatic transmission, but without a DVD entertainment system as this is strangely not part of the immediate plan, it tops out at $24,995. That's lower than most minivans start out.
That's not much money for this much car, and should help it to sell out quickly considering that slightly less than 3,000 will be made available for the rest of calendar year 2005. And that calendar year starts now, with Mazda5 ads in the major papers and a full assortment of trim levels and colours currently waiting for new homes at Mazda dealers across the nation.
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| The Mazda5 might be the most practical family vehicle available in Canada. (Photo: Mazda Canada) |
In the end, the Mazda5 might be the most practical family vehicle available in Canada. Practical because it can load up two parents, three kids, the dog and ample gear for a weekend getaway, and practical because it won't cost half of your life savings to get it to cottage country and back. But maybe it's most practical because you'll have such a great time on your journey, whether off for the weekend or during the daily commute. After all, there's nothing more practical than buying something and still being happy with it years after purchase. And on that note I'd be willing to bet that Mazda5 buyers will be very satisfied.
Specifications: Price Range (MSRP): $19,995 - $24,995
Body Type: 5-door compact minivan
Layout: front engine, FWD
Engine: 157-hp, 148 lb-ft of torque, 2.3L, 16-valve, DOHC I-4
Transmission: 5-spd manual (opt 4-spd auto with manual mode)
Brakes (front/rear): disc / disc, ABS
External Dimensions (L/W/H/WB): 4,610 / 1,755 / 1,630 / 2,750 mm (181.5 / 69.1 / 64.2 / 108.3 in)
Curb Weight (min - max): 1,512 - 1,538 kg (3,333 - 3,391 lbs)
Seating Capacity: 6
Cargo Volume (behind 3rd row/2nd row/1st row):
Fuel Economy (manual city/hwy): 10.6 / 8.0 L/100 km
Fuel Economy (auto city/hwy): 11.2 / 8.3 L/100 km
Warranty (mo/km): 36/80,000 comprehensive - 60/100,000 powertrain
Direct Competitors: none
Web site:
www.mazda.ca
