2008 Mazda5 Grand Touring AT

A Pleasant Alternative

SPECS

MSRP: $22,515; total vehicle price $25,845; destination $650
Engine: 2.30liter DOHC 16-valve I4 with VVT, MZR all-aluminum, 153 horsepower, 145 lb.-ft torque
Transmission: 5-speed automatic
Wheelbase: 108.3 in.
Width: 69.1 in.
Length: 181.5 in.
Height: 64.2 in.
Weight: 3,475 lbs.
Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.9 gal.
Vehicle category: Mid-size wagon
EPA Fuel Economy: 21/27 mpg.
Tires: P205/50R17
Wheels: 17-inch alloy
Final assembly point: Hiroshima, Japan
Warranty: 36 mth/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper, 60-mth/60,000-mile powertrain, 24-hour roadside assistance.

We call it a minivan, and some may think of the Mazda5 as a pre-minivan vehicle, or a less expensive version of the Mazda MPV. Mazda refers to the redesigned Mazda5 as a multi-activity vehicle. Mazda has put together one automobile with the "functions of a sport utility vehicle and a fun-to-drive sports car." What it offers in both minivan-like and car-like amenities is attractive: Dual sliding doors, low floor to step up/in, room for cargo, and the much-appreciated, long awaited rear windows that go up/down. Most minivans have never had this feature which means getting fresh air to the back of the vehicle wasn't always easy. The dogs especially like it.

For 2008, Mazda has freshened up the Mazda5's exterior, added the five-speed automatic transmission, rear cool air vents, arm rests, a standard auxiliary audio input jack, LED taillights on the Touring and Grand Touring models, and improved fuel economy. Several new exterior colors have been added for 2008, among them our test vehicle's spunky Copper Red Mica. Two new interior colors have also been added. Standard features on all three models (Sport, Touring, Grand Touring) include security alarm, Bluetooth hands-free phone system, heated door mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, and auto-on/off headlights.

The Mazda5 comes well-equipped with ABS, halogen fog lights, remote keyless illuminated entry, carpet floor mats, automatic climate control, power windows/locks/doors, rear wiper blade with washer, tilt and telescoping steering column, cruise, steering wheel audio controls, rear window defogger, heated front seats, Bluetooth hands-free phone system and tire pressure monitoring system.

The Mazda5 Touring edition features leather-trimmed seats, steering wheel and shift knob. The second row seats include under seat storage and second row fold-out table with storage and dual cup holders. The third row seats are 50/50 split fold-down and although offer a fairly tight fit, do provide for up to six-passenger seating. A one-touch walk-in mechanism makes access easier. A power moonroof is also standard on the Touring edition.

On the safety side the Mazda5 is equipped with advanced dual front air bags, front side-impact air bags, three row side-impact air curtains, and latch child safety seat anchors. Anti-theft alarm system and engine immobilizer are also standard. Anti-whiplash front seat design makes for safe seating, along with Mazda's six passenger 3-point safety belts.

Options on our eye-catching Copper Red Mica Mazda5 included compass/autodim mirror ($200), rear bumper step plate ($50), Sirius Satellite radio ($430), and Navigation system ($2,000).