Segment:
Compact Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV) / Crossover Utility Vehicle (CUV)
Target Audience:
Families, individuals seeking versatile and practical transportation with flexible seating and cargo options.
Competitors:
Toyota Sienna (larger), Honda Odyssey (larger), Kia Sedona (larger), Chrysler Pacifica (larger), Ford Transit Connect (van-based).
Seating:
3 rows of seating, typically accommodating 6 or 7 passengers.
Doors:
Sliding rear doors for easy access to the second and third rows.
Versatility:
Flexible seating configurations for cargo or passenger hauling.
Driving Dynamics:
Mazda's signature 'Zoom-Zoom' driving experience, offering more engaging handling than many competitors in the MPV segment.
Powertrain:
Engine operation, cooling system, fuel system, lubrication system, exhaust system.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission operation, gear selection, fluid checks.
Chassis:
Braking system, steering system, suspension system, wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Lighting systems, instrument cluster, gauges, warning lights, power outlets, fuses, basic electrical features.
Climate Control:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system operation.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seat belts, child restraint systems (LATCH/ISOFIX), anti-lock braking system (ABS) operation.
Interior Features:
Seats, seat adjustments, interior lighting, cargo area features, door locks, power windows.
Exterior Features:
Doors, windows, mirrors, wipers and washers, fuel filler door, lighting operation.
Instrumentation:
Gauges (speedometer, tachometer, fuel, temperature), warning indicators, multi-information display.
Infotainment:
Audio system operation (radio, CD player), display information.
Driving Operation:
Starting the engine, driving, parking, braking, gear selection.
Fluid Checks:
Engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid.
Tire Maintenance:
Tire pressure checks, tire rotation recommendations, changing a flat tire, jacking points.
Basic Maintenance:
Checking and replacing wiper blades, bulb replacement (headlights, taillights, turn signals), air filter inspection.
Emergency Procedures:
Troubleshooting common warning lights, emergency braking procedures, safe stopping.
Child Safety:
Proper installation of child restraint systems (car seats), LATCH anchor locations.
Maintenance Schedule:
Recommended maintenance intervals for various service items (oil changes, filter replacements, inspections).
Depth:
Focuses on owner operation, basic maintenance, and understanding vehicle features and warning indicators. Does not cover in-depth mechanical or electrical repair procedures.
Length:
174.0 inches (4420 mm)
Width:
69.2 inches (1758 mm)
Height:
63.0 inches (1600 mm)
Wheelbase:
103.1 inches (2619 mm)
Ground Clearance:
5.3 inches (135 mm) (approximate)
Passenger Volume:
Approximately 102.4 cubic feet (2899 Liters)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approximately 13.1 cubic feet (370 Liters)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approximately 30.3 cubic feet (858 Liters)
Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:
Approximately 70.2 cubic feet (1987 Liters) (with seats folded)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3400-3500 lbs (1542-1588 kg) depending on trim and features.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approximately 4700 lbs (2132 kg)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star Driver, 4-Star Passenger (for 2008 model year)
NHTSA Side Impact:
5-Star Front Seat, 5-Star Rear Seat (for 2008 model year)
IIHS Front Offset Test:
Good (for 2008 model year)
IIHS Side Impact Test:
Good (for 2008 model year)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional or standard depending on trim level (often part of DSC - Dynamic Stability Control).
Stability Control:
Optional or standard depending on trim level (DSC - Dynamic Stability Control).
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, available front and rear side-curtain airbags.
Seat Belts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters for front seats, 3-point seat belts for rear seats.
Child Restraint:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) / ISOFIX system for second-row seating positions.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, or based on severe driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).
Air Filter Replacement:
Typically every 15,000 - 30,000 miles, or as needed based on driving conditions.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Typically every 15,000 - 20,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Iridium-tipped spark plugs typically last around 60,000 - 100,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Intervals vary; often recommended around 60,000 miles, or checked for condition. Refer to manual for specific ATF type and procedure.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-20, API SN or equivalent (check manual for exact specification).
Coolant:
Mazda FL22 Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent blue coolant), a 50/50 mixture with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (check manual for specific recommendation).
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual; typically a specific Mazda ATF or power steering fluid.
Transmission Fluid:
Mazda Genuine ATF-SP III or equivalent (check manual for exact specification for the 5-speed automatic).
Common Complaints 1:
Some owners have reported issues with the HVAC blower motor resistor failing, leading to loss of fan speeds. (Not typically covered in owner's manual, but good to know).
Common Complaints 2:
While generally reliable, some instances of minor oil leaks or exhaust system corrosion have been noted in older vehicles.
Common Complaints 3:
Rear shock absorber or suspension component wear can occur over time due to vehicle usage, especially in areas with rough roads.
Mazda Philosophy:
Mazda's commitment to driving enjoyment ('Zoom-Zoom') and innovative design.
First Generation Start:
The Mazda 5 was introduced to the North American market for the 2006 model year as a replacement for the Mazda MPV.
Second Generation Introduction:
This 2008 model represents the first generation (CW platform) of the Mazda 5.
Updates For 2008:
While not a full redesign, the 2008 model might have received minor feature updates or trim adjustments compared to the initial 2006 model.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (typically, at Mazda's Hofu plant)