Base MSRP: $17,995
MPG: 22 City / 28 Highway
There was a time when pickup trucks were the kings of the road. But with the recession, powerful gas-guzzlers became too impractical to own. Car-buyers went to smaller, more fuel-efficient cars.
However, not all families can settle for smaller cars. This can be a problem, since many of them also can’t afford some of the larger and more powerful vehicles.
The 2009 Mazda5 could be an answer to this dilemma. As a minivan, it provides decent room for a small family without the gas-guzzling problems of larger vehicles.
Benefits of a car and a van
With the Mazda5, you get small-car benefits in the body of a minivan crossover. Granted, it may not have the acceleration and speed of a Mazda3, but the Mazda5 is certainly more responsive than the word “van” suggests.
Its exterior is compact enough to navigate through tight traffic much better than larger vehicles. The interior can still fit a small family comfortably compared to the compacts and sub-compact vehicles.
The Mazda5 houses a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 153hp. Some may be let down by the power. But then again, its four-cylinder engine is also responsible for a decent gas mileage (22 MPG City / 28 MPG Highway). It may be quite underpowered, but it does make sense considering gas prices and the economy.
Cons
The Mazda5 has a unique styling that some people may find odd – a minor gripe, no doubt, but styling can be a deal-breaker for some people.
The rear seats are also designed specifically for little children, so when it comes to organizing load and seating arrangements, owners will be left with limited options.
Small families will find the Mazda5 practical. Unfortunately, larger families will have to look elsewhere.
Final Thoughts
If you want to go small without going too small, the Mazda5 is one of the best auto loan choices for you. It’s currently the winner of the U.S. News Best Car for the Money award for compact crossovers so you can be sure that you’ll be getting good value for your money.
3.5/5
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