Exterior & Styling

If it weren't for its sliding rear doors, the Mazda5 would undoubtedly be considered a hatchback rather than a minivan. Mazda says sliding rear doors offer easier access to the second- and third-row seats, and are easy to open in tight parking spaces (not to mention less likely to ding other cars when they're thrown open by exuberant kids on a trip to the mall).

Though it retains the basic shape of a large minivan, the Mazda5 looks sporty nonetheless. It features a raked windshield; an aggressive front end that's been restyled for 2008 with a new grille, headlights and bumper; a tapered roofline; and standard 17-inch alloy wheels. There are also new taillights for 2008, but the additions don't markedly change the van's appearance (see a side-by-side comparison with the 2007 model).

    See also:

    Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS) Precautions
    The front and side supplemental restraint systems (SRS) include 6 air bags. Please verify the air bags equipped on your vehicle by locating the “SRS AIRBAG” location indicators. These indicators ar ...

    Accessory Sockets
    Only use genuine Mazda accessories or the equivalent requiring no greater than 120 W (DC 12 V, 10 A). Front The ignition switch must be in the ACC or ON position. With Advanced Key To use, pr ...

    Before Driving Your Mazda
    Important information about driving your Mazda. ...