It’s no secret that the classic image of a minivan is equated with dullness. For years, the very term has become the automotive equivalent of support hose and orthopedic loafers — practical, necessary, but the antithesis of trendy.
That’s going to change in 2012 as Mazda rolls out its new and improved Mazda5, a three-row minivan that has plenty of kid-friendly features but is ready for grown-up fun, too. Take away the sliding side doors — which blend easily into the exterior design — and many would mistake it for a smaller sport utility vehicle or even a wagon.
The Mazda5 was introduced in North America in 2006 and it won fans right away for its flexible seating arrangements, its bold, even athletic, exterior, and top safety scores. Now the automaker has rethought the minivan — Mazda calls it a “multi-activity vehicle” — in a way that truly boosts its appeal.
| 2012 Mazda5 |
| » Engine: 157-horsepower, 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder, 16-valve engine with dual overhead cams and variable valve timing |
| » Transmission: Six-speed manual or five-speed sport automatic transmission |
| » MSRP: Starting at $19,195 |
You’ll see that right away when you look at the “flow” design that the automaker modeled after natural aesthetics. One could liken the design to an artist’s brush stroke that flows from the distinctive five-point Mazda front grille to the rear fenders.
Fog lamp bezels, a deeply sculpted hood and even the rails for the sliding doors meld into the artistic design.
The automaker says the Mazda5 is extremely popular in Europe and Japan.
That’s understandable, especially once you look inside the cabin. The design is practical but sporty with a rippled effect around the instrument panel that translates to all three rows of seats.
Under-seat storage, a cavernous glove box and plenty of niches for large beverages add to the appeal to both families and action-oriented adults. Extras, including a telescoping and tilting steering wheel, are great for adults who share driving duties.
You won’t find a lot of high-tech extras like navigation on the Mazda5. That keeps the vehicle’s cost lower (the manufacturer’s suggested retail price starts at $19,195) and the fuel economy higher (up to 28 mpg) than some of its competitors.
Although the Mazda5 is 180.5 inches long, 68.9 inches wide and 63.6 inches high, it sits on a 108.3-inch wheelbase. That makes the exterior of the car seem somewhat compact while offering a roomy interior.
The compact configuration also adds to the van’s driving appeal. I’m a fan of tight turning and the Mazda5 certainly provides that with a Mazda-measured 36.7-foot turning radius.
The automaker replaced the 2.3-liter engine of past Mazda5 models with a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder MZR engine similar to those used in the Mazda3, Mazda6 and CX-7. That gives the minivan the same jaunty yet steady acceleration as those models.
The model I tested has a five-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with manual shift control. The ride was so smooth, though, that the manual control wasn’t needed. Those who opt for the Mazda5 Sport models can select a six-speed manual transmission that provides a bit more gusto and control when driving.
All things considered, those in the market for a “multi-activity vehicle” should put the Mazda5 high on their test-drive lists.
