2014 Mazda5 Grand Touring Van

Unique among today’s vehicle offering, the Mazda5 rides on a car platform, yet has sliding doors like a traditional minivan. The size of a compact sedan, the Mazda5 easily seats four and can take a fifth passenger, if needed. The second row of seating sports captain’s chairs, proving passengers their own space and some aisle room, to boot.

One of the few drawbacks of the Mazda5 would have to be its lack of power. Equipped with a frugal 4-cylinder engine, the Mazda5 gets drivers from A to B, but it’s somewhat hesitant lack of power becomes annoying after awhile. The fact that the Mazda5 is a Mazda, though, assures drivers some fun. Easily maneuvered and driven around town, the Mazda5 makes a great everyday driver. Not only does it provide space for toting goodies, it’s easy to park and offers a pleasing driving experience (translated: not labor-intensive).

Other favorable features on the Mazda5 include its good visibility (something sacrificed on a number of vehicles today), ease of driving, a comfortable and spacious second row seating area, and an easy-to-read dash-although not flashy.

Available in three trim levels: Sport 4-dr. wagon ($20,140), Touring ($22,270), GT ($24, 670). Our test vehicle, the Grand Touring version, is the top-of-the-line offering and includes automatic transmission, power moonroof and xenon HID headlights. Even at a price of just under $26,000, the Mazda5 comes in at thousands less than the traditional minivans.

“Functional” best describes this capable Mazda wagon; certainly not flashy. The cabin felt somewhat dated-namely, the dash, void of any up-to-date display screen housing a navigation system. The leather-trimmed seating added a nice touch. One sits fairly high in the Mazda5, making for good visibility and accommodating to all manner of drivers: short or tall. The tall rear liftgate is conducive to loading all manner of cargo, is simple to operate.

Standard equipment on the Mazda5 includes the usual: cruise, remote keyless entry, tilt/telescoping steering wheel, six-speaker AM/FM/CD system with USB and auxiliary outputs, manual driver’s seat with height adjustment. Our Grand Touring version adds a power moonroof, heated front seats, rain-sensing windshield wipers, leather seating, and driver’s seat lumbar support.

Mazda5 wheel

Safety features include the usual: ABS, rear backup sensors, Dynamic stability control, traction control, advanced dual-front /side-impact airbags, three-row side impact airbags and tire pressure monitoring system.

Potential buyers with children might want to opt for the optional rear-seat DVD system, with 7-inch monitor and two wireless headsets. Other options include remote start and rearview mirror with compass and HomeLink transmitter. Although the base model comes equipped with 5-speed manual transmission, one can upgrade to automatic.

Opting for the top-of-line Grand Touring model be prepared to pay close to $26,000; not a small chunk of change. But if buyers are in the market for something dependable, functional and pleasing to drive on a daily basis, the Mazda5 fits the bill.

Mazda5 redesigned grille

SPECS

MSRP: $24,670; total vehicle price $25,540; destination $795

Engine: 2.5-liter DOHC 4-cylinder, 16-valve, 157 hp., 163 lb.-ft. torque

Transmission: 5-speed automatic, FWD

Wheelbase: 108.3 in.

Length: 180.5 in.

Width: 68.9 in.

Tires: P205/50R17 all-season radials

Wheels: 17-in. aluminum alloy

Warranty: 3 yr./36,000-mile back-to-back limited; 5 yr./60,000-mile powertrain limited; 3 yr./36,000-mile 24/7 roadside assistance.

Assembly: Hiroshima, Japan