• 2013 Mazda Mazda5

• 2012 Mazda Mazda5
• Used Mazda Mazda5
• Repairs Mazda Mazda5

Scorecard

Overall:	2013 Mazda Mazda5 U.S. News Best Cars 8.2
Critics' Rating:	8.6
Performance:	8.9
Interior:	7.6
Safety:	N/A
Reliability:

How we calculate scores

Research analyzed for this review

Awards

• 2013 Best Minivan for the Money

Notable for 2013

• Standard USB port on stereo

 

Pros & Cons

• Fun to drive
• Great fuel economy
• Comfortable seats in front two rows

• Limited cargo space 
• Cramped third row

 

Research Other Years

• 2012 Mazda Mazda5
• 2010 Mazda Mazda5
• 2009 Mazda Mazda5
• 2008 Mazda Mazda5
• 2007 Mazda MAZDA5

The 2013 Mazda Mazda5 ranks 3 out of 6 Minivans. This ranking is based on our analysis of 16 published reviews and test drives of the Mazda Mazda5, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The 2013 Mazda5 is the smallest and least expensive minivan in the class, but test drivers say it's big on sporty performance.

The 2013 Mazda5 has a four-cylinder engine that produces 157 horsepower.  A six-speed manual transmission, the only manual in the class, is standard and a five-speed automatic transmission is optional.  Test drivers say that though the Mazda5's powertrain is a bit weak on freeways, overall, the Mazda5 has strong performance.  Because it is much smaller than the other vans in the class, the Mazda5 has handling that some reviewers say rivals a sports sedan.  It also gets excellent fuel economy.

The Mazda5 is the 2013 Best Minivan for the Money because it has the best combination of ownership costs and positive reviews in its class. 

The tradeoff you make for performance on the 2013 Mazda5 is interior space.  The Mazda5 only seats six, and compared to most minivans, the third row is cramped. Standard features include a six-speaker stereo with auxiliary input jack and USB port.  Heated seats, Bluetooth and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system are optional.  While reviewers think the Mazda5's list of features is sparse, they agree that they're in line with the van's low base price.

• "Mazda 5 deserves consideration as a well-made, sensibly sized wagon that's sedan nimble, minivan versatile, and priced right. This solid choice also promises good fuel economy and delivers outstanding room for four plus lots of stuff--four adults, a little cargo and, in the 3rd-row seats, two tykes." -- Consumer Guide
• "The words "minivan" and "fun to drive" usually don't mix, but the Mazda5 is an exception. What the Mazda5 lacks in size and power compared to others, it makes up for in driving manners, fuel efficiency and value." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "Based on the Mazda 3 architecture, the 5 is a practical, comfortable, well-appointed, and fuel-efficient minivan, as well as being sporty and fun to drive. It might not be large enough for large families, and the sliding doors will likely turn off SUV fans, but the 5 brings mini back to minivans."--Car and Driver

Other Minivans to Consider

Many reviewers compare the Mazda5 to wagons and crossovers instead of minivans.  The Kia Sorento seats up to seven, and though it has a higher starting price than the Mazda5, you get more standard features, including Bluetooth.  It also has better fuel economy.

Reviewers say the Honda Odyssey is the best performer among minivans that are larger than the Mazda5.  With the Odyssey, you get more passenger and cargo room, as well as a more comfortable ride, but you'll also have to deal with a higher price.

Compare the Mazda5, Sorento and Odyssey »

Details: the 2013 Mazda Mazda5

The Mazda5 seats six in three rows.  It has two sliding rear doors and is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, and a five-speed automatic is optional. The Mazda5 comes in Sport, Touring and Grand Touring trims.  The Mazda5 was last redesigned in 2012.  For 2013, a USB port  on the stereo is standard. Since there are no other major changes, this overview uses applicable research from the 2013 and 2012 model years.

See the full 2013 Mazda Mazda5 specs »