If you’re looking for a vehicle that isn’t quite a minivan yet is bigger than a wagon, you’ll love the 2012 Mazda 5. With enough room for six adults, sliding rear doors that make it easy to get to the second and third row seating, and an actual center aisle, this is one vehicle that provides the convenience of multi-passenger coupled with performance that you can count on.
Key Features
Beyond the smaller footprint that still handles plenty of passengers; the Mazda 5 also offers an impeccable design that will turn heads when compared with other minivan-style options. Add in a deep glovebox, places for stowing your MP3s and other gadgets and the storage compartments under the seats for stowing valuables and you have a winner. The standard Sport trim is available in either a five-speed automatic or a six-speed manual, and other standard features such as cruise control, climate control and a sound system with six speakers create a vehicle that keeps everyone comfortable on long journeys.
Changes for 2012
The 2012 Mazda 5 features detailing that ups the style, even if it can’t hide its true minivan roots. While this new design is perfect for those who want something that looks a bit more special, those that like those wagon shapes may be put off by the new look. Older patrons will also appreciate the change from a manual five-speed to a six speed for this model year.
What We Like
The lower sticker price, fun to drive handling and excellent fuel economy for the class, when compared with a minivan, are a surefire win. When you consider the Grand Touring features a range of options, including heated seats and mirrors, automatic headlights and a sunroof, this is one family vehicle that sets itself apart from those soccer-mom options.
What Concerns Us
The 2012 Mazda 5 is smaller than its classmates since it only offers 44.4 cubic feet in the cargo area with the third row seats folded. The third-row seats are also on the tiny side, and don’t provide much comfort for a full size adult.
Available Models
The 2012 Mazda 5 is only available in one model, which features a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that delivers 157 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm and 163 lb-ft of torque @ 4,000 rpm. You’ll also enjoy a city/highway gas mileage of 21/28 mpg for the manual option and 21/28 mpg for the automatic.
Major Recalls
There are currently no major recalls for the 2012 Mazda 5.
Common Issues
The most commonly reported issues with this car are uneven/rapid wear on the factory tires, the sunroof shattering from no apparent cause and shaking and vibration in the steering wheel when braking.
