The driver benefits from an excellent view of the road ahead, thanks to the vast windshield. The multitude of side windows is also appreciated. The only problem is the thickness of the A-pillars that hampers visibility a bit.
The base GS model offers a substantial equipment list, including power windows, wheel-mounted audio controls, a CD player (that doesn't read MP3 files, unfortunately), a telescopic steering wheel, remote keyless entry, 16-inch alloys, and more. There are only two airbags, however, if that's important to your sense of safety.
GS or GT?
What's the difference between the two versions? Apart from a longer equipment list, not much; the interior accommodations are the same, and they drive almost identically. On the outside, the GT gets 17-inch wheels, a power sunroof, easy-close sliding doors (didn't feel much difference), fog lamps, a liftgate-mounted spoiler, and an alarm system.
Inside, there are side and side-curtain airbags, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, a fold-down table between the 2nd-row seats and 2 extra speakers.
So, for $2,900 more, is the GT worth it? Not really. There isn't anything really essential in the amenities mentioned above to justify the extra dough. And for that price, you still don't have air conditioning.
The competition is coming around
With the arrival of the Kia Rondo and the upcoming renewal of the Toyota Matrix/Pontiac Vibe twins, the Mazda5 now has some serious competition. And with the retirement of the short-wheelbase Dodge Caravan that always had a fire-sale price, this microvan is now an interesting choice for those who are on a tight budget.
The 2008 Kia Rondo EX is well equipped for $22,095 and is probably the rival that causes the biggest headache for the Mazda5. The 2008 Pontiac Vibe 1SB with alloy wheels costs $21,380. The 2008 Toyota Matrix XR costs $21,465. My test car, a GS with the optional climate control ($1,100) and metallic paint ($105), costs $21,200.
The 2008 version of the Mazda5 will get a 5-speed automatic instead of the 4-speed unit, and will get a minor facelift.
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| The height-adjustable driver's seat and wide window surface allow a good visibility. |
The base GS model offers a substantial equipment list, including power windows, wheel-mounted audio controls, a CD player (that doesn't read MP3 files, unfortunately), a telescopic steering wheel, remote keyless entry, 16-inch alloys, and more. There are only two airbags, however, if that's important to your sense of safety.
GS or GT?
What's the difference between the two versions? Apart from a longer equipment list, not much; the interior accommodations are the same, and they drive almost identically. On the outside, the GT gets 17-inch wheels, a power sunroof, easy-close sliding doors (didn't feel much difference), fog lamps, a liftgate-mounted spoiler, and an alarm system.
Inside, there are side and side-curtain airbags, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, a fold-down table between the 2nd-row seats and 2 extra speakers.
So, for $2,900 more, is the GT worth it? Not really. There isn't anything really essential in the amenities mentioned above to justify the extra dough. And for that price, you still don't have air conditioning.
The competition is coming around
With the arrival of the Kia Rondo and the upcoming renewal of the Toyota Matrix/Pontiac Vibe twins, the Mazda5 now has some serious competition. And with the retirement of the short-wheelbase Dodge Caravan that always had a fire-sale price, this microvan is now an interesting choice for those who are on a tight budget.
The 2008 Kia Rondo EX is well equipped for $22,095 and is probably the rival that causes the biggest headache for the Mazda5. The 2008 Pontiac Vibe 1SB with alloy wheels costs $21,380. The 2008 Toyota Matrix XR costs $21,465. My test car, a GS with the optional climate control ($1,100) and metallic paint ($105), costs $21,200.
The 2008 version of the Mazda5 will get a 5-speed automatic instead of the 4-speed unit, and will get a minor facelift.
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| For 2008, it will offer some improvements, particularly in the engine bay. |