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2006 Mazda5 - Transport In a Saucy Package

By Isaac Bouchard
Contributing Automotive Writer

All the rage in Europe, small MPVs (multipurpose vehicles) have had a bit of a hard time becoming popular Stateside. Smaller than the minivans we all are familiar with, they strive to offer flexible interior architecture in a tight package.

Mazda's entry, the 5, could be just the thing to convince SUV-spoiled Americans in these days of $3/gallon gasoline. Basically a stretched version of the class-leading Mazda3, it offers room for six people in three rows of seats, five of which fold flat. Two sliding doors offer ease of loading, and it's all wrapped in cool new clothing that's made cars like the Toyota Matrix a success. Mazda's kept it simple on the 5; all models have a bodykit, spoiler, and 17" alloys outside; power equipment and lots of airbags inside.

The interior is very well thought out, with silver accents and a shifter that sprouts rally-car style from the dash top being bang-up-to-date. The first two rows off seats are very supportive, and adults can use the third row for shorter trips; folded flat, there's oodles of cargo room.

The drive is contemporary small car: decent power from the 2.3 157hp engine, tight handling despite the high bodywork, and a decent (if noisy) ride. Both manual and auto gearboxes are available. Pragmatic transport in a saucy package is a great concept; so far, our countrymen seem to agree, as sales are running almost double Mazda's expectations.

For more information http://www.mazdausa.com/

COMPETITION: Chevy HHR, Chrysler PT Cruiser, Honda Element, Pontiac Vibe, Scion xA/xB, Toyota Matrix

HIGHS: space, six seats, sporty looks

LOWS: tall, bit noisy, no turbo or six cylinder available

MILEAGE: EPA N/A; observed 25mpg w/automatic

VEHICLE PRICING: Sport model $17,995 (base) to $20,660 (hard loaded); Touring model $19,510 (base) to $22,725 (hard loaded).

LIFE'S A TRIP - Enjoy the drive. Be a safe and courteous driver, obey all highway laws, never drive impaired and buckle everyone up. Copyright © 2005 The Weekend Drive, All Rights Reserved

LIFE'S A TRIP - ENJOY THE DRIVE!®
Always be a safe and courteous driver. Buckle everyone up, never drive impaired, and obey all motor vehicle laws. Vehicles featured are tested by a professional driver in a controlled environment, never attempt any maneuver described and never exceed your own driving ability. Opinions expressed are those of The Weekend Drive®. In producing our road tests, we may attend manufacturer-sponsored events, which selected members of the motoring press are also invited, and we recieve no compensation from any vehicle manufacturer. Warranties, miles per gallon estimates, and other technical information is provided by vehicle manufacturers and is deemed reliable upon release date. The Weekend Drive® is not a dealer or broker of vehicles and makes no offer to sell or lease motor vehicles. Trademarks and trade names used are the property of their respective owners, used by permission.

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