New Mazda Mazda5 in Beaverton, Oregon - Herzog-Meier Mazda

Editorial Description (provided by Chrome)

The 2007 Mazda5 is inherently difficult to categorize. From the outside it resembles a tall and squat station wagon, yet most of its external dimensions are more closely aligned to the typical car. It is based on the lauded Mazda3 platform, but its rear doors slide, a la a minivan. This unique design tack has allowed Mazda to create a vehicle keeps a comparatively small footprint while delivering seating for six and copious amounts of storage space.

Prices start at $17,735 for the Mazda5 Sport trim. Standard equipment includes a tilt/telescopic steering wheel complete with audio controls, cruise control, four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, power mirrors, power windows, and power door locks. The Touring model adds automatic climate control, a power sunroof, fog lights, a rear spoiler, side sills, and an in-dash six CD changer. The top-of-the-line Grand Touring trim features a standard four-speed automatic transmission, high intensity discharge headlights, heated leather seats, and black headlight and taillight bezels.

Of course all these observations don't touch on the central tenet of the Mazda5: it's fun to drive. While many minivans have a V6 engine, the Mazda5 is powered by a 2.3L DOHC four-cylinder that makes 153 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque. We found it to be downright peppy. A five-speed manual transmission is standard on the Sport and Touring Mazda5s, with an optional four-speed automatic with manual mode. The 5 feels faster than its numbers would indicate, mostly because the engine is quite rev-happy.

Exterior styling is on the edgy side of its segment, but isn't over the top. The interior is particularly pleasing, with a large 140-mph speedometer and an 8,000 rpm tach clearly visible. The plastic trim on the center stack and shifter surround is nicely executed, the leather-wrapped steering wheel is comfortable, and the HVAC controls are intuitive. Nothing on the instrument panel is hidden or confounding.

The second row of seats fold flat, while the load floor provides concealed storage. The third row of seating folds down the middle and can accommodate two kids.

Optional equipment from the factory includes a sunroof and navigation system, a six-disc CD changer, and a rear spoiler, and a number of port installed options are also available.