Mazda 5 MPV 2.0 i-stop Sport 5dr Review

For This is the cleanest petrol engine in the range thanks to a stop-start system, so running costs should be affordable. The Mazda handles well and looks good, and Sport trim has all the bells and whistles.

Against The 2.0 is much pricier than the 1.8, and it doesn’t feel all that much faster. The Mazda’s cabin could be more versatile and better-quality.

What Car? says

2 out of 5 stars

An interesting alternative for MPV buyers, but there are rivals out there that do the MPV job better for less money.

What Car? readers say

1

Key facts

0–60mph: 11 secs
Top speed: 120 mph
Average mpg: 40.9
Tank range: 540 miles

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Features

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Size

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View the whole Mazda 5 MPV range

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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.