Mazda hit it right on the mark when it launched the second generation Mazda5 locally, as it soon became a popular option in the MPV segment – especially after minor upgrades and a facelift two years ago. With the third generation up against improved alternatives like the Toyota Verso and Renault Grand Scenic, it doesn’t disappoint…
Not that there was anything really wrong with the Mazda5 (we awarded it the title of best MPV in our Top 12 feature in March 2008), but with its competitors having turned up the heat in that segment, Mazda went back to the drawing board.
And it didn’t have to look too far. Mazda concept cars that used the acclaimed Nagare (Japanese for “flow”) design language were the inspiration for the Mazda5’s updated look . Even though the previous model couldn’t be described boxy, the lines of the latest generation Mazda5 have been softened for a more dynamic, flowing profile.
Up front is the familiar face of the Mazda3, or at least they’re very similar. The new Mazda5 is slightly shorter and wider than its predecessor, so directly facing it you’re be forgiven for mistaking it for the company’s compact car offering. But that’s where the similarities end.
The full introduction of Nagare on the exterior means that the Mazda5 has been given attractive contours and character lines on the front, sides and rear – the most noticeable of which are along the doors, which are supposed to represent the patterns made on water gently caressed by wind. For the most part, the design is most pleasing, but the rear looks horrible out of proportion – with a square upper half, followed by some Nagare influence on the tail lamps and tailgate metal, and finished with a black diffuser-like bumper insert…
The previous Mazda5 was a pleasure to drive, which speaks volumes for a vehicle of its type, and this tradition is carried on by the new car. Unfortunately, the engine choice is limited to the 2,0-litre four-cylinder unit used before – which produces 106 kW at 6 500 r/min and 180 N.m of torque at 4 500 r/min – but this powerplant remains most adequate when under load and even at low engine speeds. A turbodiesel option, however, would be a welcome addition.
The petrol engine is matched with a six-speed manual gearbox that is slick-shifting and boasts short enough throw and travel for quick overtaking manroueves when cog-swapping is required. The gearbox is aided by drive-by-wire throttle operation and easily-operated clutch, but what is most impressive is how refined the Mazda5 powertrain is – even under harsh operation.
The handling remains neutral even though, and as can be expected, there’s some roll by virtue of it being a little top-heavy. Otherwise, the Mazda5 remains composed – and in terms of ride comfort it scores highly too. The electro-hydraulic steering is predictable and feels reassuring at speed, while suspension revisions have contributed to an overall smoother feel on the road.
Inside, this range-topping Individual offers all the bells and whistles like leather upholstery with sporty red piping on the seats, the electrically-operated rear sliding doors, and chrome detailing over and above the usual pleasantries like electric windows all-round, air-con, radio/MP3, and of course, the innovative Karakuri seating sysem with plenty of storage options throughout the cabin.
Safety-wise, the Mazda5 features ABS with EBD and brake assist, as well as traction control to go along with Dynamic Stability Control to prevent collisions. In the event of a collision though, the new car boasts a stronger steel structure with key reinforcements, as well as six-airbags and ISOFIX childseat mounts.
The Mazda5 is better than ever, even though some may question the rear-end styling a bit. Only two things bother me, the first being that the engine line-up is severely limiting (a diesel would go a long way in attracting more consumers), and that hopefully Mazda gets the pricing right when they are announced, which should be sometime soon.
For more details and specifications on the Mazda5 Original, Active, and Individual models, click on the DOCUMENTS tab above the images, and download the desired document.
