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The headlamps on the new MAZDA5 play
a prominent role in the overall design of the vehicle. The headlamp design
starts with the stretched look that distinguishes Mazda headlamps; Nagare is
introduced in the form of a supple S-shape design. This line blends with those
on the front grille, hood and fender arches to heighten the individualistic
character of the vehicle. Direct electrodeposition coating is used to enhance
the contrast of textures within the lamp housing. The overall effect is that of
an original and extremely stylish new design.
The rear combination lamps
pick up the flow from the character lines on the sides of the body and the
sliding door rails, and continue it on to the tailgate to form a beautiful
design. In creating this look, the MAZDA5 blends the trailing end of the sliding
door rails smoothly into the rear combination lamps to create a simple, stylish
expression.
Premium Interior
Motifs adopted from the Nagare
design language can also be found throughout the interior, from the lines above
the dials and along the instrument panel to the stitch pattern in the seats and
the design of the seat fabric. The overall ambience established is that of a
sporty, high-quality cabin.
The driver-oriented design of the interior
positions the peak of the meter hood as the tall point, with all lines flowing
from there to comfortably wrap around the driver. The instrument panel flows
from the cockpit to the center panel and on to the passenger-side dashboard in a
rippling effect that suggests a liquid sensation to the design. The same flow
continues on through the lines of the seat pattern, connecting seamlessly with
the second and third row seats to create a strong sense of unity throughout the
interior.
The cockpit presents a sporty look that hints at what the
MAZDA5 will be like to drive, from the look of its twin deep-set gauges to the
genuine leather that wraps the steering wheel and gear shift knob. The center
panel is fitted with chrome plating and silver-trimmed control knobs that
creates a look of top quality, all the while emphasizing the stylish design of
the new MAZDA5's cabin.
Practical Functionality
Based on an
innovative packaging concept, the first-generation MAZDA5 offered value that far
outclassed other vehicles in the marketplace. The fine balance it struck between
sporty, dynamic styling, versatility and outstanding practicality earned the
MAZDA5 high praise from media and consumers alike.
A very popular feature
of the previous generation that is carried over is the superbly practical
manually operated sliding rear side doors that can be operated with one finger.
The doors hug the sides of the vehicle when open, and create a wide opening for
easy entry and exit to the rear seats - even for the third row of passengers.
This not only provides far superior access compared with conventional
front-hinged doors, it also is a benefit in tight parking spaces because they
require little side clearance when open.
Despite its compact makeup, the
MAZDA5 features a spacious cabin. Three features contribute to its roomy
interior: a low profile fuel tank, a compact multi-link rear suspension, and a
stepped floor. The latter permits excellent legroom for all - especially those
sitting in the second and third rows. The ingeniously flexible interior takes
convenience and versatility to a whole new level, and can be configured for two,
three, four, five or six passengers, plus commensurate amounts of cargo.
The second row has separate captain's chairs for added levels of comfort (and to
minimize the "he's touching me" joy when little ones share a bench seat). They
slide and recline and can be folded flat without removing their headrests. They
also feature a one-touch lever that automatically tips the seatback forward and
slides the cushion to its front-most position to allow access to the third row.
Bigger Engine
MAZDA5 customers will benefit from a healthier
injection of Zoom-Zoom for 2012, attributable to an increase in displacement
from 2.3 to 2.5-liters. This new engine is similar in most details to those
found in the MAZDA3, MAZDA6 and CX-7. Mazda's MZR engine family is widely
regarded as one of the world's most advanced forms of fuel-efficient,
high-energy propulsion. The MZR 2.5-liter featured in the new MAZDA5 is a light,
compact design that offers higher performance yet better fuel efficiency than
the previous generation.
The MZR 2.5-liter produces its maximum output of 157
hp at a lower rpm than the previous 2.3-liter (6,000 rpm), and also delivers
more torque (163 lb-ft at 4,000 rpm) throughout its operating range for a more
satisfying and relaxing driving experience. In addition, a tall sixth gear
allows quiet and comfortable cruising.
MAZDA5 can be equipped with either
a six-speed manual transmission (Sport models only) or a five-speed
electronically controlled automatic with manual shift control. Despite an
increase in power and displacement, fuel efficiency ratings show no loss over
the previous generation's 2.3-liter engine.
Three Models
The 2012 MAZDA5 is available in three trim levels - the entry-level Sport,
Touring and top-grade Grand Touring. All three trim levels offer the
versatility, features and style consumers in the market for a multi-activity
vehicle want, at a price they can afford.
The well-equipped MAZDA5 Sport
is powered by a 157 horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and is available
with either a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. Standard
features include 16-inch alloy wheels with 205/55 R16 all-season tires, power
mirrors, air conditioning, power windows and door locks, AM/FM/CD/MP3 stereo
with six speakers, audio auxiliary jack, tilt and telescoping steering wheel,
remote keyless entry system, one-touch up/down driver's window, 50/50 split
fold-down third row seats and steering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls.
The MAZDA5 Touring takes everything on the MAZDA5 Sport and pumps it up a
notch. MAZDA5 Touring is equipped with a five-speed automatic transmission,
17-inch alloy wheels with 205/50 R17 all-season tires, sport side still
extensions, rear liftgate spoiler, fog lamps, Bluetooth hands-free phone and
audio, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob and trip computer.
The top-of-the line Grand Touring model adds a power moonroof, xenon
high-intensity discharge (HID) headlights, automatic on/off headlights, heated
door mirrors, rain-sensing windshield wipers, anti-theft alarm system, driver's
seat lumbar support adjustment, heated front seats, in-dash 6-disc CD changer,
leather-trimmed seats and Sirius satellite radio.
The Touring model is
available with a Moonroof and Audio Package which includes a power moonroof,
in-dash 6-disc CD changer and Sirius satellite radio.
Mazda MAZDA5: Photo Gallery, Review (1/2) and Specifications