The Mazda5’s interior is inviting and airy, in spite of its compact size.  Materials have been improved for ‘08; the comfortable front seats are upholstered in rich-feeling, wavy-pattered cloth, and ride at a “just-right” height.  The trim has a more upscale look as well.  The center console and instrument panel are also freshened for ‘08, with a redesigned center stack and electroluminescent gauges that make the Mazda5 feel a bit less like an economy car.  The separate second-row seats flip into the floor and have storage cubbies underneath; second-row passengers also get air vents and fan-speed controls.  The third row also folds flat.  With all of the seats in place, the Mazda5 seats six and still has room for cargo behind the third-row seats.  Fold the third row, and capacity goes up to 44.4 cubic feet, and with all of the seats folded the Mazda5 can carry 70.9 cubic feet, with space for objects up to 63 inches long.  Leather seats, an in-dash CD changer and a navigation system are available.  The second-row seats can fold separately, offering even more flexibility.

The secret to this spacious interior lies underneath the Mazda5.  A low-profile fuel tank and low-rise rear suspension allow for a convenient step-in height that allows the Mazda5 to make the most of its high roof.  Additionally, the stepped floor improves legroom for all three rows.

All of this versatility, and decent fuel economy too?  It’s the truth.  Thank the 2.3 liter four-cylinder, which is shared with just about every other car in Mazda’s lineup and makes 153 horsepower.  On paper that’s merely adequate and nothing to write home about, but eye-popping acceleration is clearly not what the Mazda5 is about. The all-aluminum DOHC engine goes about its business pleasantly, and that’s what’s important–that, and the 21/27 fuel economy.   The 148 foot-pounds of torque on hand is enough to get this little do-all up to speed without drama, and freeway onramps can be tackled with relative confidence.  A choice of five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmissions is offered.  The five-speed automatic is new, and improves the Mazda5’s previously questionalble freeway manners with a more relaxed drive.

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