2006 Mazda5 Road Test (Video Clip)

Technical

(Photo: Mathieu St-Pierre, Auto123.com)

The single engine selection is the much utilised 2.3L inline 4-cylinder. Also found in the 3 and the 6, in the 5 it generates 157 hp and 148 lb/ft of torque. Transferring the power to the front wheels are either a 5-speed manual gearbox or a 4-speed automatic with a manual mode called Sport. The suspension is fully independent and brakes consist of 4-wheel discs. Steering is electro-hydraulically assisted. Standard wheels are 16 inches in diameter with optional 17 inchers with the GT package.

On the road

The 2.3L has earned its stripes in cars such as the 3, the 6 and even the Ford Focus ST. In said vehicles, the engine is good performer. In the 5, although it weighs 200 kg more than the 3, is peppy and fun. The catch is that as soon as you find yourself hauling four passengers and a little gear,

(Photo: Mathieu St-Pierre, Auto123.com)

the fun somewhat dissipates. The motor is refined and quite thrifty. I was the first person to drive this particular 5, it was very cold that week and I still managed a commendable 8L per 100 km.

Braking is better than average for a vehicle of this type. The pedal requires little effort and the pedal can be modulated with ease. Steering is light and properly assisted at low speeds and resistance increases slightly once on the road. The turning radius is conveniently short which makes the 5 a breeze to par. Visibility is fairly in every direction.

The ride is quite nice. It closely resembles that of the 3. This means that the car demonstrates good grip in a curve and confident stability on the highway. Some body is present but any regular minivan displays a much greater amount. Bumps and bruised road surfaces are absorbed without too much fuss.

(Photo: Mathieu St-Pierre, Auto123.com)

Wind noise is quite present in the cabin at highway speeds. The large windshield and good-sized mirrors probably have much to do with it. The winter tires also play a small part however it is negligible in comparison.

Safety

The Mazda5 has standard dual front air bags, side and side curtain air bags are standard on the GT, ABS brakes with electronic brake force distribution and assist as well as seatbelt pre-tensionners. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) have yet to rate the Mazda5.

Conclusion

The Mazda5 is the answer to the prayer of every person that ever wanted

(Photo: Mathieu St-Pierre, Auto123.com)

a vehicle that is fun to drive and in which he or she could integrate the entire family with the greatest of ease. My only suggestion to Mazda would be to try and source a Volvo 5-cylinder and slip in under the hood. Those that will regularly carry stuff and passengers will appreciate the extra grunt.

Mazda is playing all the right cards at the moment. As soon as the MPV is replaced by the all-new version unveiled at last Japan auto show and the CX-7 crossover utility vehicle arrive, Mazda will have one of the most dynamic, intriguing and youthful product lines in the business.

Good stuff:
Ride and handling
VERSATILITY

Not so good stuff:
Noisy cabin

Competitors:
Toyota Matrix
Pontiac Vibe
Suzuki Aerio SE/SX
[link artid="28528"]Chrysler PT Cruiser[/link]
[link artid="31490"]Chevrolet HHR[/link]
Ford Focus ZX5