The 2012 Mazda5 is a small minivan that showcases big performance. This minivan is perfect for a large family of 6. The driver can still experience fun when driving even if he/she has 5 passengers because this vehicle handles smoothly. The trim level for the Mazda5 has Grand Touring, Touring, and Sport. The best assets in a Mazda are good interior, comfortable seats, and the best fuel economy among the minivans.
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Midsized Van | Base Price: $19,345.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.9 gallons (60 liters) | MPG: 21 city / 28 hwy |
| Length: 180.5 in. (458 cm) | Width: 68.9 in. (175 cm) |
| Height: 63.6 in. (161.5 cm) | Wheel Base: 108.3 in. (275 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 3417 lbs (1550 kg) | Ground Clearance: 5.5 in. (14 cm) |
| Luggage Capacity: 44.4 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 6 people |
| Engine: 2.5L 16-Valve DOHC 4 cylinder w/ VVT | Displacement: 2489 cc |
| Horsepower: 157 HP | Max RPM: 6000 RPM |
| Torque: 163 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm | Transmission: 6-Speed Manual w/ OD |
| 0-60 mph: 7.9 seconds | 1/4 Mile: 15.9 seconds |
| Option:Mazda 5 Touring | MSRP: $21,345; MPG: 21 city / 28 hwy |
| Option:Mazda 5 Grand Touring | MSRP: $24,025; MPG: 21 city / 28 hwy |
Performance
Handling the Mazda5 is easy and it gives you an enjoyable driving experience. When you grab hold of the steering wheel, it feels very engaging to drive it. The drive-train of a Mazda5 is comes standard with a 5-speed manual with an option of an automatic five-speed transmission. The downside, the engine is only a four-cylinder 2.5 liter engine that can generate a minimal amount of power which is 157 HP. But even if it has less power, it is the best economy of fuel in its class. The integrated automatic transmission is efficient in making the shift smooth and the downshift quick. The transmission is very responsive. The torque produced by the coupling of the engine and the transmission is 163 ft lb at 4,000 revolutions per minute.
Exterior
The exterior design of the Mazda5 is a standout from all others. What adds to the flamboyant look of the car are the swoopy lines that grace the profile. At first glimpse, you’ll observe side flutes that are unnecessary but if you look at it for a long time, you will appreciate the creativity and its beauty.
Interior
Many people find the Mazda5’s interior to be small but this seems to be not a big issue. Though the interior is not spacious, the design is brilliant. One feature that might catch the attention of the buyer are the two captain chairs in the first two rows. The captain chair offers very comfortable seat for the occupant. Yes, Mazda5 doesn’t offer many interior features but the simplicity and the low price may be the reasons why a buyer must park this minivan in their garage. Also, the interior still looks attractive even if it is constructed sturdily.
Safety
The 2011 Mazda5 hasn’t undergone any crash tests given by the government or the insurance industry but the records of the previous models shows good ratings for safety. For the front-impact test, the 2010 model received 5 stars out of 5. Another 5 stars is given for the side-impact test for the protection of the driver. Only 4 stars are given for the protection of passengers from the side-impact crash. The rating for rollover is four out of five stars. Other safety features included in Mazda5 are the control of traction and stability, airbags on the side and front, and curtain airbags for the side all rows.
Reliability
The 2012 model of the Mazda5 obtained 6 score out of 10 reliability rating given by J.D. Power and Associates. Like all other minivans, Mazda5 also comes with several warranties. One is the bumper to bumper coverage for 3 years/36,000 miles. Another is the power-train coverage for 5-years or 60,000 miles.
The Competition
The Mazda5 minivan is comparable to Kia Sedona (MSRP $24,595; 18 city / 25 hwy). The Sedona has the same space with Mazda5 but it is not very expensive. Kia Sedona won the Best Minivan in 2011. Among other minivans, Sedona is known to offer the longest warranty of power-train.
However, if you want a spacious minivan packed with many interior features, the Honda Odyssey (MSRP $28,225; 18 city / 27 hwy) is the best choice. Having your hand on the steering wheel of Odyssey, you’ll have fun driving even if the whole family is with you. With the options it offers, this full-sized minivan can be compared to a luxury car. All these offered features come with a price higher than the Mazda5.
Pros & Cons
The pros of buying this minivan are; the experience of fun driving, save more cash in the long run because it offers better economy of the fuel, and it comes in a lower price. Of course, there are also cons when you buy this car. First, it lacks cargo area since it is compact and small. Next, the seats on the third row are cramped. Lastly, you are offered with a few options only.
Overall Rating
74 out of 100
What others say:
“Mazda 5 is surprisingly sporty. Grip is good and body lean is modest in corners. The responsive steering provides good road feel, and a tight turning circle aids in close-quarters maneuvering.”Consumer Guide
“Fuel-efficient base engine, but could be slightly underpowered.”Edmunds
“If you need seating for six with easier third-row entry than an SUV and a smaller price tag than a minivan, the Mazda5 can fill your need.”KBB
