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2012 Mazda5 Preview

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Lesley Wimbush
Offering 3-row, 6 passenger seating, the Mazda5 is extremely versatile and able to swallow an amazing array of "stuff". The third row splits 50/50, and when folded flat, provide 426L of cargo space. Drop the middle row, and that number increases to 857 litres. Front row seating is comfortable and roomy, but legroom in the passenger rows could be considered adequate at best.

The driver-centric cockpit features an all-new instrumentation pod as the focal point, with lines flowing downward through the centre stack and wrapping around the cabin to create a "sense of unity".

Photo: Mazda

There are plenty of cubbies for iPod, cell, sunglasses etc., and some ingenious hidden storage for laptops, briefcase or purse under the floor and seat cushions.

In keeping with Mazda's "Zoom-zoom" mantra, the Mazda5 receives an extra boost in power underhood. The engine increases from 2.3 to 2.5 litres, and from 153 to 157 horsepower, while offering an estimated 0.2 - 3L improved fuel economy. The standard transmission is a 6-speed manual, with a 5-speed automatic offered as a $1200 option. The underpinnings are basically the same C1 global platform as the Mazda3 sedan, with MacPherson struts in front and independent multi-link suspension behind.

All 2012 Mazda5 will include the Brake Override System – which automatically overrides the throttle if brake and accelerator pedal happen to be pushed simultaneously, preventing unintended acceleration issues.

The Mazda5 will go on sale in January of 2011 and will be available in two different trims.

The base model GS equipped with 6-speed manual starts at $21,795 with standard 16-inch alloy wheels, power mirrors, power windows and door locks, air conditioning, AM/FM/CD/MP3 stereo, audio auxiliary jack, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, remote keyless entry system, one-touch up/down driver’s window and 50/50 split fold-down third row seats. An available Convenience Package ($845) adds: a Bluetooth® hands-free phone system with Audio Profile music streaming capability, steering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls, leather-wrapped steering wheel, trip computer and an anti-theft alarm system.

At $24,395 - the Mazda5 GT includes everything on the GS with Convenience, and then adds 17-inch alloy wheels with P205/50R17 all-season tires, sport side still extensions, rear liftgate spoiler, fog lamps, Xenon high-intensity discharge (HID) headlights, Bluetooth hands-free phone system with Audio Profile music streaming capability, SIRIUS® satellite radio, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, trip computer, heated front seats and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

An available Luxury Package ($1,790) adds a power moonroof, leather-trimmed seats and a center row fold-out table/cargo bin.

No navigation system is offered, since Mazda believes there are more economical options for customers to purchase on their own.

Photo: Mazda


2012 Mazda 5
mazda 5 2012
2012 Mazda 5
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Lesley Wimbush
Lesley Wimbush
Automotive expert