The Updated Mazda5 Engines and Running Gear
Published: 22nd January 2008
Mazda Mazda5
The refreshed appearance of Mazda5 for 2008 includes new front and rear bumpers, new front and rear light clusters, new front grille, new-style 16-inch and 17-inch alloy wheels, and a choice of eight exterior colours. The new model retains its excellent aerodynamic efficiency with a Cd of 0.29.
Inside, the upgraded Mazda5 retains its predecessor’s uniquely versatile interior – with Karakuri seating for up to seven people and maximum storage flexibility – and adds new navigation and audio systems for even more fun and convenience. It has a new DVD navigation system with a 7-inch multifunctional touch screen now integrated into the centre console, which makes it more practical to read and use. This system also allows drivers to use the Mazda5’s rear-view camera with parking guidance for stress-free parking.
For the upgraded Mazda5, the choice of body colours is expanded from five to eight, with three colours carried over [ Brilliant Black (Solid), Galaxy Grey (Mica) and Sunlight Silver (Metallic) ] and the introduction of two new metallic colours – Golden Sand and Icy Blue – and three new mica finishes – Copper Red, Dark Plum and Stormy Blue.
Mazda5 is the only C-segment vehicle with twin sliding rear doors, each with an impressive door opening width of 700mm, and that convenience will be further enhanced by the introduction of optional dual power sliding rear doors that open and close in less than five seconds, stopping automatically if obstructed while closing. Both doors can be operated by a button from the driver’s seat, or by a light pull on the interior or exterior door handles. The nearside door can also be opened remotely and electronically via the remote key fob.
Mazda5 Powertrains and running-gear
Not only is the upgraded Mazda5 more convenient to use, it also promises to be more fun to drive. The MZR 2.0-litre petrol models feature a 146ps engine that has been completely revised and now has an electronic throttle and sequential valve timing (S-VT), which makes maximum torque available at a lower engine speed for quicker engine response in every gear.
Two newly-introduced transmissions enhance the lively and agile character of this 2.0-litre engine: a six-speed manual transmission is fitted as standard and a five-speed automatic will be an option on the 2.0 petrol TS2 model from March – a first for the Mazda5 line-up.
New dampers, front and rear, and increased rear toe-in geometry, result in a more refined suspension providing enhanced ride comfort and maximum stability when cornering at high speeds and when fully laden. A newly optimised brake booster is introduced to give drivers a quicker and easily modulated brake response.
Highly-specified equipment levels
Four well-established Mazda equipment levels – TS, TS2, Sport and Sport Nav – are offered with a choice of two petrol and two diesel engines. The Sport grade now features a bolder visual differentiation from other versions, as the ‘Sports Styling Pack’ will be fitted as standard on Sport and Sport Nav models, together with modern 17-inch 5 x 2 spoke alloy wheels.
Mazda Mazda5
Our Mazda Mazda5 Guide lists the full specification of the current UK Mazda5 range, including car prices, fuel consumption, dimensions and other vital data.
Price Range: £14,770 - £18,905
Body Style:
Fuel:
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Models in the range: 7
We have road tested the Mazda Mazda5, to read our in-depth car reviews:
Mazda Mazda5 Review - Aug 2008
Mazda Mazda5 Review - Jan 2007
Our Car Buyer’s Guide covers all of the UK’s major new cars and includes CO2 ratings and car insurance groups. Data updated on the 21st Sep 2008
