While minivans continue to cede market share to compact crossover vehicles, Mazda Canada continues to offer its 5 mini-minivan. While the 5 was expected to be discontinued for 2017, Mazda has given it the stay of execution despite the fact that it's been off the market in the U.S. for two years now. While the 5 sells in modest numbers, its low asking price and compact dimensions make it a unique offering in the segment.
Last updated in 2012, the Mazda5 carries over from last year unchanged, other than the renaming of Crystal White to Snowflake White.
While small compared to full-size vans like the Odyssey and Sienna, the Mazda5 is slightly larger than the original Dodge Caravan and Plymouth Voyager magic wagons and offers seating for six occupants across three rows. The 5's closest rival is the Kia Rondo, which has available seating for seven, but features traditional hinged doors as opposed to the 5's standard dual sliding doors. Flat-folding second and third row seats give the 5 serious cargo-hauling abilities, while under-cushion cubbies for the second-row captain's chairs offer additional space to stow items.
All 5s use a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine that develops 157 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque. This is an old engine, and the only product in Mazda’s portfolio lineup that does not have SkyActiv fuel-saving technologies. While this engine is sufficient to move the 5 around, it can start to struggle when loaded up with people and cargo. The 5 holds the title of being the only minivan on sale today in Canada that's available with a manual transmission - in this case a six-speed stick-shift. A five-speed automatic is an extra-cost option, and offers rev-matched downshifts. Both transmissions have their gear shifters located high on the centre console in close proximity to the driver's right hand.
While the 5 is not the zippiest people-mover around, it’s one of the more enjoyable models to drive. You'd be hard-pressed to find another vehicle with sliding doors that can put a smile on the face of a driver as effectively as the 5. Compared to compact crossovers and bigger vans, it can be quite loud at freeway speeds.
The 5 is available in two trims, GS and GT.
Standard equipment on the GS trim level covers all the basics including air conditioning, 16-inch alloy wheels, remote keyless entry, power windows, power mirrors, and an audio system with USB. Bluetooth, a power sunroof, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and reverse sensors are available.
A move up to the GT trim adds leather upholstery, heated front seats, Bluetooth, xenon headlamps, power sunroof, reverse sensors, rocker sill extensions, fog lamps, and 17-inch alloy wheels.
Due to its age, the 5 does not have the latest in infotainment or active safety technology. The 5 is one of the few cars on sale that does not feature a touchscreen display audio system, and a reverse camera is not offered. Bluetooth and USB are available, but when it comes to Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, or features like emergency autonomous braking or lane-keeping assist, you're out of luck.
With a starting price of $21,995, the Mazda5 has the lowest MSRP of any van on sale today. Pricing for the GT starts at $26,795.
This vehicle has not yet been reviewed
