New for 2015

Largely a carryover model, the 2015 Mazda5 is no longer available with a six-speed manual.

Ahead of the Curve

The Mazda5 isn’t your typical minivan. If you’re at all familiar with the Japanese automaker, you’ll know that Mazda likes to march to a different beat. The 2015 Mazda5 is no different. It utilizes an unique-for-the-segment car platform, while retaining the same sliding door functionality of a traditional minivan. It’s also incredibly spacious and versatile, two key qualities every good minivan should have.

Yes, the 2015 Mazda5 has all the qualities of a traditional family hauler but differentiates itself thanks to a fun-to-drive character and relatively sporty suspension. Trips to the grocery store will never be the same.

Powertrains and Performance

The 2014 Mazda5 is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that dishes out 157 horsepower and 163 pound-feet of torque. For 2015, all models receive a standard five-speed automatic transmission.

As for handling, the Mazda5 is pleasantly sporty. It’s also unusually fun to drive and offers impressive visibility and maneuverability thanks to its car-based platform. Fuel economy is equally impressive, with the Mazda 5 earning an EPA-estimated 24 mpg combined (21 city/28 highway).*

Trims and Features

The 2015 Mazda 5 is a three-row, six-passenger minivan that starts at $21,240** and is available in Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring trims.

Standard equipment on Sport models include 16-inch alloy wheels, full power accessories, keyless entry, cruise control, automatic climate control, 50/50-split rear folding seats, and a six-speed sound system, complete with CD player and USB/AUX ports.

Touring models swap Sport model’s 16-inch alloys for larger 17-inch variety and add foglights, a rear spoiler, rear parking sensors, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, and Bluetooth® hands-free phone and audio streaming.

Finally, at the top of the model list is the Grand Touring, which comes with everything from the previous trims plus automatic xenon headlights, heated mirrors, automatic wiper, leather upholstery, and heated front seats.

There are also a few options and packages that help refine the Mazda5 cabin even further. These include a Moonroof and Audio package, as well as individual items like a remote ignition system, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and – what is sure to be a favorite of the kiddies – a rear-seat DVD entertainment system.

Exterior/Interior

The 2015 Mazda5 sports a friendly profile, starting with a smiling front grille (or is that grin?). The merriment doesn’t stop there and the swooping, wave-like swaths make for stylish side details. Mid-level touring models spice things up even more by way of side sill extensions and a rear spoiler. Overall, the Mazda5 is a sharply-dressed minivan that continues to draw attention to itself for all the right reasons.

With room for six passengers and fold-flat second and third rows, the 2015 Mazda5 offers incredible utility when it comes to stowing passengers and cargo. Under-seat cubbies add further flexibility, ensuring owners have plenty of space and options for cargo. Passengers in the second row are treated to an abundance of head, leg, and shoulder room, too.

Mazda didn’t forget about drivers, though, and up front the 5 is sports a sleek layout and easy-to-reach controls, which is in step with the automaker’s driver-focused design philosophy.

Safety

Minivans require an added level of safety and the Mazda5 is here to deliver. Standard safety features include stability and traction control, antilock disc brakes, front side airbags, and full-length side curtain airbags. For added convenience and safety, rear parking sensors are also available,

Bottom Line

The 2015 Mazda5 is a fun and functional minivan. It dutifully provides all the features and utility of a traditional minivan while exuding confidence and delivering surprisingly fun road manners. In a segment that often bows to more pressing and practical needs, the Mazda5 isn’t afraid to instill a little passion as well.

For more information, or to schedule a test drive, contact us at Cutter Automotive Galleries.

*EPA-estimated mileage. Actual results will vary.

**Vehicle MSRP excludes $795 destination charge (Alaska $840), taxes, title and license fees. Actual dealer price may vary. See dealer for complete details.

Image: Mazda