2012 Mazda Mazda5 Overview & Specs
The Mazda5 lacks navigation and entertainment systems.
The Mazda5 could possibly be considered a true minivan as this model is about the size and weight of the original Plymouth and Dodge minivans that Chrysler rolled out nearly three decades ago. Today’s minivans are larger, heavier and roomier than the earlier models, weighing just as much if not more than today’s full size sedans.
The 2012 Mazda Mazda5 is a 6-passenger vehicle that is powered by its front wheels. This vehicle is available in three trim levels — Sport, Touring and Grand Touring — and is priced from just $19,625. That price may be what appeals to shoppers most as you’ll sacrifice at least one seating space, plenty of storage utility and some popular amenities when choosing the Mazda5.
In Style
The Mazda5 has a “tall wagon” look, with a nose not unlike the Mazda3 and a length similar to the Mazda6 sedan. Its sensible proportions give this vehicle a slightly more aerodynamic body line that features a sloped roof line, decorative swoop characteristics along its sides and a rear spoiler with wraparound tail lights.
Sport editions come equipped with 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels; Touring and Grand Touring models offer 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels. Wheels are set within all-season radial tires.
Engine & Transmission
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A 2.5-liter four cylinder engine making 157 horsepower is the lone engine offered with the 2012 Mazda Mazda5. This engine is paired with a 6-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission. Both models achieve 21 mpg city, 28 mpg highway to offer the best around town fuel economy among all minivans. This model runs on regular grade gasoline.
Cabin Amenities
The 2012 Mazda Mazda5 features 2+2+2 seating with bolstered bucket seats throughout the cabin. Each seat comes equipped with arm rests; front seat arm rests are inboard located. Second and third row arm rests are on the driver’s side of the seat.
The driver has a 6-way manual seat and lumbar support is added with the Grand Touring edition. The front passenger has a 4-way manual seat. Sport and Touring seats have cloth surfaces; Grand Touring editions are equipped with leather, heated seats.
Standard amenities offered across the model line include remote keyless entry; a tilt and telescopic steering wheel; air-conditioning; power windows and power door locks; front map lights; two 12-volt outlets; and cruise control. Bluetooth connectivity is offered in Touring and Grand Touring editions.
A standard AM/FM/CD/MP3-compatible stereo with 6 speakers is found in the Sport edition. Optional with the Sport and Touring edition and standard with the Grand Touring is an AM/FM/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3-compatible stereo with 6 speakers. A SiriusXM Satellite Radio-compatible audio system is included as is a subscription with the Grand Touring edition.
Choose the moonroof and audio package and you get a power sliding-glass moonroof; an in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3-compatible changer and the SiriusXM subscription. Unlike traditional minivans this model does not offer popular minivan amenities such as an available navigation system, a DVD entertainment system or power-sliding doors. Those amenities are found in the Volkswagen Routan, the Kia Sedona and the Honda Odyssey, to name a few.
Safety Features
The Mazda5 comes equipped with many safety features including 4-wheel anti-lock brakes; electronic brakeforce distribution; stability control and traction control; child-safety door locks and a tire pressure monitoring system.
Airbags including front and front side airbags are included. Its side curtain airbag system offers protection for all three rows of passengers.
Photo: Mazda North American Operations
