Mazda5 2010 Review
The small-minivan idea is a good one, yet most minivan models have either grown or — in the case of Mazda's MPV — disappeared. Complete with three rows of two seats each and the genre-defining sliding side doors, the Mazda5 is arguably the only small van on the market — a microvan. It's so much smaller than others in its segment that comparing it with minivans is pointless. It's closer in size — inside and out — to compact crossovers, but its closest competitor is the Kia Rondo, which has a similar layout and an optional third-row seat, but four conventional hinged side doors.
On its own merits, the Mazda5 is pleasant enough to drive and live with, and its starting price and cargo space are impressive. It's when you compare its passenger space with that of the Rondo and small SUVs that you wonder if its benefits extend beyond the sliding doors.
The Mazda5 comes in three trim levels: Sport, Touring and Grand Touring. Our test car was a Touring equipped with a rear bumper guard and satellite radio as its only options. Click here to see changes from the 2009 model year.
See also:
After Getting In
- Are all doors closed and locked?
- Is the seat adjusted properly?
- Are the inside and outside mirrors
adjusted?
- Is everyone's seat belt fastened?
- Check all gauges.
- Check all warning lig ...
Advanced Key Suspend Function
If one key is left in the vehicle or trunk
and the second key is used to lock the
vehicle, the functions of the advanced key
left in the vehicle or the trunk are
temporarily suspended to prevent t ...
Vent Operation
Adjusting the Vents
Directing airflow
You can direct air flow by moving the adjustment knob.
Horizontal air flow can be adjusted by pressing the vent left or right.
Opening/closing vents
These ...