In January the new Mazda5 will hit showrooms across South Africa as the successor to Mazda’s first-generation compact multi-activity vehicle (C-MAV). The first-generation Mazda5 was known for its functionality and versatility with its ‘6+1′ packaging concept and sliding doors on both sides.
Taking its styling cues from the company’s ‘Nagare’ design concept – which means ‘flow’ in Japanese – the new Mazda5 is the first model to feature the design theme throughout. Intended to portray the flow of motion, ‘Nagare’ draws influence from nature, and in particular, the flow of wind and water.
The car’s flowing lines begin at the bonnet, with the five-point front grille being familiar to other Mazda models like the Mazda3 and Mazda6. The Nagare flow continues from the headlamps and front fenders along the sides to the rear fenders and rear lamps. The rear combination lamps echo the flowing character lines on the sides of the body and blend with the sliding door rails.
Inside, the cabin is well designed from a driver’s perspective. The three-spoke steering wheel is height and reach adjustable along with the seat. The instrumentation is clear and controls for functions such as the radio are within easy reach. The gear stick falls conveniently to hand, thanks to its raised position and coupled with a linear clutch action makes for smooth and accurate shifts. The centre panel is fitted with chrome accents and silver rimmed control knobs that provide a smart contrast against the black dashboard. The plastics are of good quality, while the leather covered steering wheel, gear knob and handbrake improve the tactile feel in the ‘Individual’ spec model.
The new Mazda5 continues the three row seating layout of the previous model, but includes a few changes. An armrest for the front passenger has been introduced. The front of the 2nd row centre seat cushion is now 50 mm thicker and its seatback extended downward by another 50 mm, which makes it more comfortable. Floor height rises up a step in the second row and the third row to ensure a clearer view for occupants in the back. The ‘6+1’ packaging concept is carried over to the new model. The versatile ‘+1’ functions include the: walk-through passageway, the hidden ‘Karakuri’ seventh seat and utility box.
The new Mazda5 also features large sliding doors on both sides. They provide easy access to the second and third-row seats, allowing for easier loading and unloading of luggage, as well as being more convenient than traditional rear doors by requiring less space to open in tight parking spaces.
Interior wind noise has been reduced, adding to the new 5’s refinement. Measures taken to reduce NVH levels include a crescent-shaped contour at the back of the bonnet so air flows smoothly without hitting the windshield wipers directly; newly designed A-pillars reduce air turbulence and wind noise; the vibration characteristics of the suspension were optimised; and insulation foam has been added between the roof panels and in the framework around the door hinge pillars to reduce wind and road noise.
All Mazda5 models are powered by a 16-valve 2.0-litre petrol engine, which produces 106 kW at 6 500 r/min and 180 Nm at 4 500 r/min. Mated to a six-speed manual transmission it returns an average fuel consumption of 10.8 L/100km in the urban cycle over an urban route.
The suspension is carried over from the previous model. The McPherson struts in the front and a Multi-link system in the rear, together with revised damper settings, provide good straight-line stability and a steering response that is true to driver inputs. The Mazda5 manages to offer an adequate balance between stability and comfort, meaning it remains composed over bumps and undulations in the road surface, while ensuring its occupants do too.
Building on the previous generation’s 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating, the new Mazda5 has improved passive safety measures such as a stiffer body together with stronger seat back frames and reinforced mounting points for the seats. Active safety equipment includes Anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) and Brake assist (BA) as standard across the range.
The Mazda5 continues to be available in three model grades, Original, Active and Individual. The Original model offers an entry point to the range but remains well equipped with equipment such as, radio/CD-player; multi-function steering wheel; dual front airbags; side and curtain airbags to name just a few key features. The Active offers additional specification such as 17”alloy wheels, leather trim on gear knob and steering wheel and the Karakuri utility box. Topping the range is the Individual model with roof spoiler; front fog lamps; electric sliding doors; cruise control; an in-dash 6-CD player and leather seats.
Popular with those looking for practicality and safety in a well styled package, the latest generation Mazda5 has improved upon its strengths and is now also slightly more affordable.
| Price (incl. VAT and C02) | |
| Mazda5 Original | R249 000 |
| Mazda5 Active | R256 000 |
| Mazda5 Individual | R285 000 |
Prices include a 4-year/120 000km warranty, 5-year/90 000km service plan and 3-year roadside assistance plan.
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