Mazda 5 (05-10) - Review

Review by Simon Harris on
Last Updated: 24 March 2009
The Mazda5 may not be the first car that springs to mind when thinking of a people carrier, but it is one of the best. We'd recommend it over alternatives including the Vauxhall Zafira or Toyota Verso - due mainly to family-friendly features such as rear sliding doors along with simple folding rear seats and easy access. It's also good value and all models come very well equipped. It should be thought of as a '6+1' seater though - it does have seven seats but the central seat in the second row is narrow and uncomfortable. However solid build quality and typical Mazda reliability complete a strong package and make this an unsung hero among people carriers.
4 out of 5

Other Mazda reviews

4.5 out of 5

Safety

Euro NCAP rates the 5 as a five-star car for occupant crash protection, making it one of the safest people carriers around. With six airbags as standard and various other safety systems on board the Mazda5 is safe as any car in its class.

NCAP Test

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  • Adult Occupant Rating

    5 out of 5

  • Child Protection Rating

    3 out of 5

  • Pedestrian Test Rating

    2 out of 5
4.5 out of 5

Reliability

Mazdas are usually very reliable and we have no reason to doubt the 5 won't continue the tradition. There are no complicated gadgets like keyless ignition or tyre-pressure sensors that might play up after a few thousand miles.

Car check problem points

Body

No problems reported.

Engine/Gearbox

A recall in 2006 for diesel models where the engine may stall and another in 2008 where an engine mounting could fail under sudden acceleration. There was also a recall for some diesel models in 2009 where the engine revs can increase inadvertently.

Other

No problems reported.