04-30-2008, 07:01 PM
To hijack Mike's thread:
![[Image: 2006_Mazda_MAZDA5minivan_ext_1.jpg]](http://www.automedia.com/NewCarBuyersGuide/photos/2006/Mazda/MAZDA5/Minivan_Van/2006_Mazda_MAZDA5minivan_ext_1.jpg)
I was actually impressed by the Mazda5. This is basically a very small crossover vehicle that closely resembles a true minivan, with it's dual rear sliding doors. The sliding doors on the side are actually very helpful for getting people in and out of tight spaces. The 2.3L 153bhp/148lb-ft power plant behind under the hood is actually very suitable for the 3475 curb weight and allows for decent 'get-up-and-go' abilities, even with 4 grown adults in the vehicle. The brakes on the car are very capable as well. The suspension allows for a very comfortable ride that's 'ok' on the road noise, not the best. The seating for this thing allows for 7 adults under 6' comfortably except for the 3rd row seating and for the driver the position of the steering wheel feels like a bus. The rear seats can fit moderately sized people comfortably. If you're looking for a people-mover that's easy to park and easy on the wallet for initial cost and the gas budget (21/27) it's tough to beat. Great urban family car.
![[Image: 2006_Mazda_MAZDA5minivan_ext_1.jpg]](http://www.automedia.com/NewCarBuyersGuide/photos/2006/Mazda/MAZDA5/Minivan_Van/2006_Mazda_MAZDA5minivan_ext_1.jpg)
I was actually impressed by the Mazda5. This is basically a very small crossover vehicle that closely resembles a true minivan, with it's dual rear sliding doors. The sliding doors on the side are actually very helpful for getting people in and out of tight spaces. The 2.3L 153bhp/148lb-ft power plant behind under the hood is actually very suitable for the 3475 curb weight and allows for decent 'get-up-and-go' abilities, even with 4 grown adults in the vehicle. The brakes on the car are very capable as well. The suspension allows for a very comfortable ride that's 'ok' on the road noise, not the best. The seating for this thing allows for 7 adults under 6' comfortably except for the 3rd row seating and for the driver the position of the steering wheel feels like a bus. The rear seats can fit moderately sized people comfortably. If you're looking for a people-mover that's easy to park and easy on the wallet for initial cost and the gas budget (21/27) it's tough to beat. Great urban family car.
'19 Golf R
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Intro
J Ray's Top Ten
Previous: '99 BMW Z3 2.8L | 2019 Honda Ridgeline | 2010 VW GTI | 2008 CBR 600RR | 2005 Nissan Titan SE King | 2003 Honda CBR 600RR | 1998 Integra RS | 1998 Suzuki GS500e | 1999 Honda Civic Si | 1986 VW GTI 8v
