History/Description: The Mazda5 really put the word ‘mini’ back into the word minivan. A compact 6-seater with sliding doors, the 5 launched in its 1st generation for the 2006 model year, and has now been replaced by a new model that will compete with the Kia Rondo, the upcoming Chevrolet Orlando and other loosely-categorized ‘crossover’ models in its segment.
The original Mazda5 came with a 2.3-litre 4-cylinder engine with 153 horsepower. Transmission choices included a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic, depending on the model selected. All units were front-wheel drive.
Available feature content included heated leather seating, Bluetooth, cruise control, auxiliary audio inputs, rain-sensing wipers, steering wheel audio controls, a sunroof and an outside temperature display. Expect adequate space for 2 average-sized adults up front, and 4 smaller passengers in the rear.
What Owners Like: The availability of a manual transmission, good handling, relatively generous room, good mileage, interior layout and easy-to-manoeuvre sizing are all highly rated by Mazda5 owners. High levels of comfort and flexibility are also noted.
What Owners Dislike: Typical owner complaints centre around a rougher ride on models with larger wheels, the lack of a front passenger-seat armrest, some difficult-to-clean interior trim materials, and high cruising revs with the manual transmission. Owners also wish for a rear-seat heating duct and note that cargo space all but disappears when all rows of seating are used.
Common Issues With The Used Mazda5: On a test drive, be sure to check the Mazda5 you’re considering for signs of excessive tire and brake wear. Numerous owners complain of the installation of ‘cheap’ parts from the factory, leaving them to replace tires and brake components earlier than expected. Shoppers should also look for signs of a bad alignment. A mechanic can help if you’re unsure how.
Ensure the CD player or CD changer works properly, receiving and ejecting CDs as expected. Ensure the steering wheel-mounted controls function properly, and be sure the unit your test driving isn’t suffering from a faulty keyfob that no longer works the door locks.
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| 2006 Mazda5 (Photo: Mazda) |
The original Mazda5 came with a 2.3-litre 4-cylinder engine with 153 horsepower. Transmission choices included a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic, depending on the model selected. All units were front-wheel drive.
Available feature content included heated leather seating, Bluetooth, cruise control, auxiliary audio inputs, rain-sensing wipers, steering wheel audio controls, a sunroof and an outside temperature display. Expect adequate space for 2 average-sized adults up front, and 4 smaller passengers in the rear.
What Owners Like: The availability of a manual transmission, good handling, relatively generous room, good mileage, interior layout and easy-to-manoeuvre sizing are all highly rated by Mazda5 owners. High levels of comfort and flexibility are also noted.
What Owners Dislike: Typical owner complaints centre around a rougher ride on models with larger wheels, the lack of a front passenger-seat armrest, some difficult-to-clean interior trim materials, and high cruising revs with the manual transmission. Owners also wish for a rear-seat heating duct and note that cargo space all but disappears when all rows of seating are used.
Common Issues With The Used Mazda5: On a test drive, be sure to check the Mazda5 you’re considering for signs of excessive tire and brake wear. Numerous owners complain of the installation of ‘cheap’ parts from the factory, leaving them to replace tires and brake components earlier than expected. Shoppers should also look for signs of a bad alignment. A mechanic can help if you’re unsure how.
Ensure the CD player or CD changer works properly, receiving and ejecting CDs as expected. Ensure the steering wheel-mounted controls function properly, and be sure the unit your test driving isn’t suffering from a faulty keyfob that no longer works the door locks.
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| 2007 Mazda5 (Photo: Mazda) |