While the redesigned Mazda5 retains the general silhouette of its predecessor, new sheet metal gives the van a different look. Apart from the happy-face look provided by the new grille, which is a staple on Mazda models now, the Mazda5's most distinctive styling element are the wavelike lines in the side doors. At the rear of the van, the taillights have moved from the roof pillars to the liftgate, and they look quite a bit like the ones on Mazda's CX-9 crossover. Other exterior features include:

* Standard 16-inch alloy wheels; 17-inch rims optional * Standard halogen headlights; xenon headlights optional * Standard remote keyless entry * Optional liftgate spoiler * Optional fog lights
* Optional heated side mirrors * Optional rain-sensing windshield wipers