The question of what exactly the Mazda5 is arises again on the road, because it definitely doesn’t hande like a minivan.  The suspension is fully independent, with anti-roll bars front and rear, and rack-and-pinion steering that’s precise and responsive.  The Mazda5 turns in confidently and responds favorably to mildly aggressive driving. It’s as adept at carving a path through rush-hour traffic as any subcompact.  It’s not exactly what you’d call sporty, but it’s definitely cheerful; hauling things need not be a joyless experience. Front and rear antilock disc brakes mean that the Mazda5 doesn’t get the runaway-train feeling under hard braking that many minivan and SUV owners are used to.

As fuel prices rise, little do-alls like the Mazda5 are likely to grow in popularity. Not very many vehicles can haul like a minivan or SUV yet drive and sip fuel like a compact car, after all. Not many vehicles start at $17,995, either. The well-equipped Mazda5 Grand Touring starts at $22,515.

Specifications:
Base price: $17,995
Engine:  2.3 liter 16 valve DOHC inline four-cylinder
Drivetrain: five-speed automatic transmission, front-wheel drive
Horsepower:  153 @ 4500
Torque: 148 @ 3500
Fuel economy:  21/27

Source: on wheels inc

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