2012 Mazda5 Review

[AutoGuide.com]

Your best alternative to a minivan, not to mention most crossovers

With the recent rollout of new and improved minivans for 2011 there’s a common theme. Automakers are keenly aware of the stigma associated with driving a minivan and as a result are trying to take the people haulers into different segments, adding luxury for some, more sporty driving dynamics for others.

If you absolutely need a minivan, then nothing else will do. Big crossovers and SUVs may seat as many, but they don’t often have the same cargo room or versatility, they don’t have the all-important sliding side doors, plus they almost always cost more and get worse fuel economy.

If you don’t need a minivan, then the obvious choice is the crossover segment. But there is another option: the Mazda5.

IMPRESSIVE CARGO ROOM AND SEATING FOR FOUR

Based on the Mazda3 platform it has three rows of seats with room for two in each, although the 3rd row is cramped and not meant for regular use by adults. Ideal for a family of four, with just 5.6 cubic feet of cargo room behind the third row squeezing in a week’s worth of groceries is a challenge. Drop that third row, however, and you’ve expanded the space to 27.5 cu-ft, enough for those groceries and a stroller for two.

Get more: 2012 Mazda5 Review at AutoGuide.com

[mikethomsun]

Excellent car! thanks for the information.