Exterior & Styling

The sliding doors say "minivan," but many see the Mazda5 as a wagon. Minivans tend not to set hearts aflutter, but there's one thing I appreciate about the 2010 Mazda5, and that's its styling. It's nothing special, but it's also not the redesigned 2011 Mazda5 that's due at dealerships early in 2011; Mazda has already released photos (click on the thumbnails to the right). The 2011 has a less restrained design, including the smiling grille most new Mazda models get, plus a new characteristic: wavelike accent lines in the bodyside sheet metal. On the upside, the 2011 lowers the taillights and eliminates the clear-lens-over-chrome style, which is outdated at best.

    See also:

    Operating Tips for Audio System
    WARNING: Do not adjust the audio control switches while driving the vehicle: Adjusting the audio while driving the vehicle is dangerous as it could distract your attention from the vehicle opera ...

    Fuel-Filler Lid and Cap
    WARNING: When removing the fuel cap, loosen the cap slightly and wait for any hissing to stop. Then remove it: Fuel spray is dangerous. Fuel can burn skin and eyes and cause illness if ingested. ...

    Installing a Child-Restraint System
    The passenger lap/shoulder belt can easily be converted into the automatic locking mode, which must be done to hold the child-restraint system. Some child-restraint systems also employ specially ...