This car is so much fun to drive, you forget it has 7 seats. It is very responsive with smooth gear changes. Sitting at traffic lights, you wonder if the engine is still running, but hit the gas and you sure know it is. The sliding rear doors are a great design and the rear luggage space is more than ample for your needs. This is one of the best cars I have ever purchased.
The frst thing I have to add is that I'm a company car driver which means it's going to do a lot of miles, and with four kids it's probably going to get well used. The car itself is brilliant, quick, handles well, and very roomy for a MPV. Very happy with the whole thing, except fuel comsumption, I'm currently getting 400 miles to a tank, which I think is not to good for a diesel model, I've been to the garage and they've said I should be getting 500, which worries me, anyone got a similiar problem?
To be very honest I'm not sure what I should say to prospective buyers; I love the car in principal but the car gives off a terrible loud squeak when doing a 3 point turn, my spare key doesn't and has never worked and the Mazda recommended and fitted DVD player doesn't play through the speakers even though it was fitted especially for that reason. If you don't mind very poor build quality, go for it ;)
This car is wicked, it's cool to look at, drives like a sports car and is mega practical with the sliding doors trick - totally recommended machine.
Been living with this car since march 2006 and I have to say it never fails to bring a smile to my face. Living in the west country, we have lots of winding roads which the "5" seems to love. Handling and steering are pin sharp with the car going right where it's pointed. The family aspects are also very good with plenty of space and comfort for all. This is a "real" alternative to your normal humdrum mpvs. A nicely screwed together package. Well done!
