Mazda MPV zooms in

Described as a "communicative and dynamic-space" Multi Purpose Vehicle, the Mazda5 offers a '6+One' seating arrangement, but you’d hardly know it by the MPV's styling and compact size.

"Mazda5 is Mazda’s latest generation MPV, developed and engineered to capture a segment we have never catered for in South Africa, whilst still embodying the company’s spirited DNA and continuing the excitement of the joy of motion — zoom-zoom," reckons Doreen Mashinini, Marketing Manager Mazda South Africa.

Mazda5 is available in two specification levels, Active and Individual, with both offering the same multi-adjustable seating configuration, lightweight sliding rear doors, and 2.0-litre petrol engine

Almost identical to the high performance MZR-series engines found in the Mazda3 range, the mill has been tuned to suit the different characteristics of the larger Mazda5. As a result the 1999cc, 16 valve unit produces a peak power of 107kW at 6000rpm and offers a maximum torque figure of 185Nm at 4500rpm. The five-speed manual transmission is fundamentally the same as that found in the Mazda3 but features smoother and easier operation.

The equipment

The Mazda5 range comes equipped with the likes of power remote door mirrors, power door locks and windows, and remote keyless entry. Manual air-conditioning with pollen filters can be found in the Active model whilst the 2.0 Individual includes automatic air-conditioning with an ambient temperature display.

Interior storage space includes 45 compartments, including an illuminated glovebox, half-litre bottle holders in each front door pocket, and second row under-seat storage.

Standard audio equipment includes AM/FM radio with front loading CD player. The 2.0 Individual offers an audio system that features six speakers rather than four found in the 2.0 Active. Audio controls can be found on the leather-covered steering wheel, which has rack and reach adjustment capabilities.

Dual front airbags are complemented by curtain and side airbags. ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Emergency Brake Assist (EBA) are also included in the package. Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with traction control is offered as standard on the Individual model.

The suspension is fully independent. Anti-roll bars are fitted front and rear for flat handling, minimal body roll and improved driver feedback. The rack-and-pinion steering features variable ratio electro-hydraulic power assistance.

The look

From the exterior the Mazda5 is distinguished by 17" alloy wheels, body colour bumpers, body colour side mouldings, mirrors and door handles. The Individual is set apart thanks to the addition of a "Sports Appearance Package". This includes a body colour front sports bumper, sports grille, side and rear under-skirts and roof spoiler.

As for the seating practicalities, "the Mazda research team found that most Multi Purpose Vehicles utilised a 2:3:2 seating layout based on a ‘5+2’ concept. Given our focus on creating a ‘communicative’ MPV we designed a ‘6+One’ packaging concept," said Mashinini.

The ‘6+One' packaging concept provides for occasional use of a ‘+One’ seat, creating more space and easier cabin access. This Karakuri seventh seat allows for the accommodation of a seventh person, but can be folded out to create a three-person bench seat.

Manually operated sliding rear side doors can be operated with one finger, should you so wish. They hug the sides of the vehicle when open, and create a wide opening for entry and exit to the rear seats.

Further back, the tailgate features a two-stage opening mechanism which has its first stop at a height most can easily reach. The low sill height facilitates loading.

"The Mazda5 is first and foremost a family vehicle, but over and above that, it embodies the spirit of the Zoom-Zoom philosophy. The result is a vehicle that is versatile and offers an enjoyable driving experience," concluded Mashinini.

The Mazda5 offers 15 000km service intervals, three-year/100 000km warranty, as well as the Mazda Motion five-year, 60 000km maintenance plan and roadside assistance.

Pricing:
Mazda5 2.0-litre Active: R199 990
Mazda5 2.0-litre Individual: R 216 990

Source : motoring.iafrica.com