Mazda 5 (2005 - 2010) 2.0 Sport 5d (2007/07) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

That we rarely visit a car wash. That we have an active family life and need something that accommodates the four of us, our friends, our dog as well as bikes and luggage and tent.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Everyone loves the sliding doors. I think most people are just amazed that it still goes considering the state it's normally kept in.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes - definitely.

What are you likely to buy next?

I'd buy another 5 if Mazda does a proper new model. The updated version of ours is looking a little tired now. I'd happily buy Mazda again.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchised

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£13,500

When did you buy the car?

September 2008

Did you get a good deal and why?

Yes, firstly they took my dreadful Peugeot 307 off me which I could never have sold to an individual. I let them know what I wanted and then I waited. After a month or so they rang me an offered me the right car at the right price.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

This is my third Mazda and they have all been highly reliable. We needed a good, practical family car with occasional 7 seats and wanted to avoid the usual troublesome Zafiria's and Tourans.

What was the dealer like?

Friendly and straightforward.

What's it like to drive?

Pretty good for an MPV. It's no MX5 but it's quite quick.

What's it like to park?

No problem. Big mirrors and square back.

Have you had any problems with the car?

There have been two faults. Both at about the five year old mark - the first was a failed suspension are (cost around £70) and the other was an ABS pump costing £300 (Mazda made a contribution as it shouldn't have failed so soon). Other than that it's been trouble free so £370 of repairs in six and a half years of hard use is not too bad.

What's most practical about your car?

Sliding rear doors are brilliant. No worries about kids banging other cars in car parks. Large boot, seven seats, roof rails. It's a brilliantly designed car. Would be even better if they had given it a proper middle rear seat.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Climate control that actually works (I had a Peugeot before).