Auto News 5

The Mazda 5 is getting old, but I remain a fan. This is a great vehicle for a small family that needs something bigger and more versatile than a sedan but doesn't want the expense and bulk of a minivan or a larger crossover. With comfortable seating for six spread among three rows, a carlike driving demeanor, and great visibility through its huge windshield, it's a very pleasant vehicle to drive. Yep, it's only got a four-cylinder engine. Nope, you don't need a V-6, which would only drive up the sticker price and lower the fuel economy which, at 21/27 mpg city/highway, is pretty good for a car that can haul six people, or four people and a lot of stuff.inline_mediumwraptextright26344289/reviews/editors_notebook/0912_2010_mazda5_touring0912_03_z+2010_mazda5_touring+rear_three_quarter_view.jpgTrue

Reports of the minivan's death have been greatly exaggerated. Even in a dreadful 2009, the segment managed more than 400,000 sales. That's way down from its heyday but still more than double the volume of, say, the hotly contested luxury compact crossover segment.inline_mediumwraptextright2011 Toyota Sienna SE27546328/reviews/driven/0912_2011_toyota_sienna035-Sienna-SE.jpgTrue