Mazda 5 MPV 1.8 TS 5dr Review

For This is the cheapest Mazda 5, and that’s why it’s our favourite. You still get plenty of standard equipment, and it’s not that much slower than the 2.0-litre petrol.

Against This is the thirstiest and dirtiest engine in the range. The Mazda’s cabin could be more versatile and better-quality.

What Car? says

3 out of 5 stars

This one is your best bet if you have your heart set on a Mazda 5, but there are rivals out there that do the MPV job better for similar money.

What Car? readers say

1

Key facts

0–60mph: 12.8 secs
Top speed: 113 mph
Average mpg: 39.2
Tank range: 517 miles

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Features

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Size

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View the whole Mazda 5 MPV range

The full Mazda 5 review

Performance
3 out of 5 stars
The 1.6 diesel is the pick
Ride & Handling
4 out of 5 stars
Handles well, but ride is slightly lumpy
Refinement
4 out of 5 stars
Quiet most of the time
Buying & Owning
3 out of 5 stars
Competitive in every area
Quality & Reliability
3 out of 5 stars
Good for the latter, not great for the former
Safety & Security
4 out of 5 stars
Most of what you expect in an MPV
Behind The Wheel
4 out of 5 stars
Comfy, but could be simpler
Space & Practicality
3 out of 5 stars
Could, and should, be better
Equipment
4 out of 5 stars
Lots as standard

Buyer's notes

Target Price team says:

Mazda 5 buyers have the choice of two petrol engines. The cheapest - a 1.8 - is no ball of fire, but it’s reasonably perky low down in the rev range and delivers adequate acceleration. The direct-injection 2.0 is stronger, but it takes its time to build up revs, and doesn’t feel that much faster. It is a lot cleaner, though, so running costs will be lower, although it costs a lot more to buy in the first place.

The vast majority of buyers will choose the 1.6-litre diesel engine, though, because of its lower running costs and stronger resale values.

All three trim levels are crammed with kit, and even the basic TS trim (only available with the 1.8) comes with air-con, alloys, remote central locking, four electric windows and cruise control.

TS2 comes with parking sensors, automatic lights and wipers, climate control and Bluetooth, while Sport models have sporty styling, powered sliding doors and leather seats.