The 2008 Mazda, with all the cargo space and convenience of a larger-sized family vehicle, is compact and affordable. Sport hatch performance, dual sliding rear doors, room for six, and precise Mazda engineering make it a dream come true. Mazda calls the Mazda5 a ''multi-activity vehicle infused with sports car inspiration'' that ''efficiently transports people and equipment like a large SUV.'' For 2008, the Mazda 5 has been restyled, is available in five new paint colors, comes with an auxiliary audio jack, and has an available automatic transmission.

The 2008 Mazda 5 runs on a 2.3-liter, 153-horsepower, four-cylinder engine with available five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmissions. It is offered in Sport, Touring and Grand Touring trims. The four-speed automatic transmission is optional on the Sport model, which has a five-speed manual as standard.

The 2008 Mazda 5 is a small six-passenger minivan. It has all the zoom-zoom good-looks you expect from a Mazda. It comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels on all models. Standard on the Sport are 17-inch alloy wheels; automatic climate control; rear-seat air-conditioning vents and controls; full power accessories; a tilt-telescoping steering wheel with audio controls; cruise control; fold-flat second- and third-row seats; a trip computer; electroluminescent gauges; and a six-speaker stereo with CD player and auxiliary audio jack. However, the Touring trim adds fog lights, a rear spoiler, sunroof, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and an in-dash six-CD changer (optional on the Sport). The Grand Touring trim adds automatic xenon headlights, rain-sensing windshield wipers, leather upholstery, heated front seats and Bluetooth. The Touring and Grand Touring can be equipped with a touchscreen navigation system, while all Mazda 5s are pre-wired for satellite radio.

The standard safety features on all models include the required dual-action frontal air bags; front seat-mounted side-impact air bags for torso protection; and head-protecting side air curtains for all three rows of seats. Every seating position has a three-point seatbelt and an adjustable head restraint. The middle and rear seats have child safety seat anchors (Latch). Anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist also come standard.