Mazda5 a zoomin’ value
TEST DRIVE
By Greg Zyla
Syndicated Columnistt
This week we test-drive the 2008 Mazda5 Touring, still a one-of-a-kind vehicle where the “zoom-zoom” spirit of Mazda marketing switches gears just a bit. Specifically, Mazda5 may be looked upon as a crossover, SUV or small minivan, yet I’ll go with the term mid-size station wagon as the preferred nomenclature.
Introduced to America as an ‘06 model and based on the Mazda3 platform, we tested a “5” in late ‘05, and today I’m happy to report that the word inflation seems not to exist in Mazda5’s dictionary. Specifically, the 2006 model tested was more expensive than the 2008 version by $735, including options. Additionally, for 2008 you receive way more in standard and safety features for a difference in the base of just $710 more.
This price stability is a real welcome, especially as we move further into what some call an “economic downturn,” others a “possible recession.” Thus, if Mazda’s pricing policy on its “5” from 2006 to 2008 isn’t yelling “we care” to the consumer, then those shopping this market who miss a Mazda5 deal aren’t doing their homework properly.
On the road, we took Mazda5 to upstate Pennsylvania close to the New York border, mostly on two-lane side roads. After returning home the same day and traveling a combined 195-miles, we still had more than a half-tank of fuel left in the tank. This very much impressed us, as we feel we did better than the 22-city, 28-highway EPA numbers listed on the sticker. The “5” handled great in all highway situations and is comfortable, too.
Granted, the “zoom-zoom” of Mazda’s advertising theories is trimmed somewhat to achieve these EPA numbers, but “5” still has peppy characteristics. The 2.3-liter, 16-valve double-overhead inline-4 engine puts out just 153-horsepower, but thanks to a lighter curb weight it moves fairly well. In some instances, we found it surprisingly quick, although if you overload with six adults, don’t expect either peppy acceleration or great EPA as the 4-cylinder will struggle.
Our Golden Sand Metallic front-drive Mazda5 featured a five-speed manual transmission, no doubt helping that all-important EPA number while adding to the “fun factor” during our weeklong drive.
Inside, Mazda5 shows off its three-row combination seating, although don’t expect any full size adults to ever occupy the third seat. In particular, it’s very cumbersome to get settled back there if you happen to be taller than 5-feet, even with the slide-open rear doors, which make everything easier to do.
The vehicle’s overall interior scheme, however, is noteworthy and you can do plenty with the second and third rows, depending on how you want your “5” to function on a particular day. The second and third rows fold flat, or the third row can split 50/50, allowing for some added groceries and the smaller child with the second row still up. There is also under-seat and foldout storage, and a total of eight cupholders for occupants.
As for standard items, Mazda5 offers a power glass moonroof; independent strut front and multi-link rear suspension; four-wheel disc anti-lock brakes with EBD and brake assist; front and rear stabilizer bars; variable-assist power steering; 17-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires; halogen headlamps; integrated fog lamps; front and rear stabilizer bars; rear wiper; and keyless entry with a multi-function remote that operates door locks, liftgate and illuminated entry.
Cabin items incorporate adjustable lumbar driver’s seat with lift control, leather tilt and telescopic steering wheel, steering mounted cruise and audio controls, automatic climate control with 2nd row cool air vents, all the powers, and a great sounding AM/FM with six-CD changer.
Safety features on Mazda5 include anti-whiplash front seat design, driver and front passenger side and front air bag systems, front side air bags, three-row side impact air curtains and a tire pressure monitoring system.
Important numbers include a wheelbase of 108.3-inches, 3,480-pound curb weight, 5.5-inch ground clearance, 44 cu. ft. of cargo space, and a 15.9-gallon fuel tank that takes regular grade fuel.
In summary, Mazda5 owners come from all walks of life, but they all have one thing in common: added value built into their purchase. We like Mazda5’s interesting vehicle combination enough to bestow a well-earned 8.5 on a scale of 1 to 10. Yes, it’s a neat car (did I say car?)
