What Is It?
2006 Mazda 5
What's Special About It?
The Mazda 5 is not only an all-new model for Mazda; it's also the United States' first foray into the space wagon category. Space wagons comprise a rapidly growing segment in Europe, but have yet to appear on our shores. Unsure what a space wagon looks like? Imagine a short minivan, or a very tall station wagon. It's all about moving a large group of people, but only needing a small parking spot.
The Mazda 5 is based on the Mazda 3 platform, but its interior is expanded to regularly seat six passengers, with an optional "6 + One" seat for a seventh rider. The additional seat can also be converted into a center console. The interior is arranged to create an open space feel, so passengers can easily communicate between seating rows. The dual sliding doors pop out only slightly, making it easier for passengers to climb in and out in tight parking spaces. And just like in most current minivans, a DVD entertainment system with a seven-inch screen is available to make even long drives more enjoyable.
What's Edmunds Take?
There's certainly a big market for minivans in the United States as growing families recognize the convenience of low step-in height and flexible seating and storage options. Will the Mazda 5 be able to attract attention alongside the new stable of near-luxury minivans? Why not? Even though Mazda expects the 5 to be a relatively low-volume seller when it launches stateside, city families, as in New Yorkers and San Franciscans, need street parking, too. — Kelly Toepke
2006 Mazda 5
What's Special About It?
The Mazda 5 is not only an all-new model for Mazda; it's also the United States' first foray into the space wagon category. Space wagons comprise a rapidly growing segment in Europe, but have yet to appear on our shores. Unsure what a space wagon looks like? Imagine a short minivan, or a very tall station wagon. It's all about moving a large group of people, but only needing a small parking spot.
The Mazda 5 is based on the Mazda 3 platform, but its interior is expanded to regularly seat six passengers, with an optional "6 + One" seat for a seventh rider. The additional seat can also be converted into a center console. The interior is arranged to create an open space feel, so passengers can easily communicate between seating rows. The dual sliding doors pop out only slightly, making it easier for passengers to climb in and out in tight parking spaces. And just like in most current minivans, a DVD entertainment system with a seven-inch screen is available to make even long drives more enjoyable.
What's Edmunds Take?
There's certainly a big market for minivans in the United States as growing families recognize the convenience of low step-in height and flexible seating and storage options. Will the Mazda 5 be able to attract attention alongside the new stable of near-luxury minivans? Why not? Even though Mazda expects the 5 to be a relatively low-volume seller when it launches stateside, city families, as in New Yorkers and San Franciscans, need street parking, too. — Kelly Toepke
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