2008 Mazda Mazda5

Mazda can claim the 'what is it?' award with their Mazda5, which falls somewhere in between an jacked up wagon and a minivan. Made for small families of four or five that do not want a large minivan and live in the suburbs or urban areas. The sporty look of this vehicle entices many to have a look, but it's not for everyone. The Mazda5 has little room on the inside. People over 5'5" start feeling very cramped in any of the 6 seats but especially in the back. There are three rows but if you use them all there is absolutely no room for anything else, the trunk space is very limited. There is storage under the seats that is nice but some what impractical. The seats themselves are only ok. I wouldn't want to take long drives in them but it's fine for regular day to day. There is a lack of comfort for passengers. There are no vents in the back, so heating and cooling is inadequate. No arm rests for front seat passengers also will bring in many complaints as well.

As for handling, the way the Mazda5 sits low gives the impression that it drives like a sport car. Well this is not what you want to think. Like a sport car, it handles badly in wet or snowy weather. It does not have the pep of a sport car so people need to remember just because you think you can jump in front of a tractor trailer with, you will not be able to punch it and this will cause accidents, either with other vehicles or going off the road. If you wish to purchase one of these Mazdas or own one already, there are a few things to check for. One as always is to check out its recalls. These include doors not being able to shut all the way! There is also a lot of corrosion happening to the door latches already As with many Mazdas the electrical systems short out and things such as chimes and warning lights go off at random moments. Most importantly make sure the engine is in good condition these vehicles have been know to stall while driving, listen for knocking, vibrations and other noise because the rubber mountings aren't dependable either.

Cost wise the Mazda5 is so-so. The gas mileage ranges between 23-27 MPG - not bad for a minivan, but not great for a wagon. The upkeep isn't too painful and an oil change and tune up will cost between $75-$100 a shot. Back yard guys who do their own work won't like the tight spaces both under the hood and the vehicle. Many times people will bring them in due to warning lights being on and every one gets aggravated that the problem is not being solved. Well, like I said before the electrical system is bad. Many people have wasted a lot of money going from one garage to the next with everyone reading the codes and finding no problems. If this happens have the mechanic check the electric, it may save you many trips. Not to say that if it goes off not to have it check out because there are other issues it can be.

The Mazda Mazda5 is an unusual mini van that just falls short of good, with it's cramped interior and issues.