The 2017 Mazda5 compact minivan is marketed as a “multi-activity vehicle.” It’s small enough to park nearly anywhere and can tow a family of 6. With plenty of integrated storage and seats that fold flat, it’s also a good choice for drivers that need to haul cargo regularly. For larger families on a budget, the starting price of $21,995 is a great deal.

The Mazda5 is now a Canadian exclusive. Mazda stopped selling the unique model in the U.S. a couple of years ago when it saw yearly declines in sales of the model. American consumers favour larger vehicles or station wagons, making the Mazda5’s market share smaller and smaller.

The 2017 Mazda5 is the only minivan in its size class to have rear sliding doors instead of regular hinged doors. This luxury makes up for the minivan’s compact overall length of 4,585 millimetres. The sliding doors allow full access to the second and third-row seats.

The second and third-row seats fold flat for those who sometimes need cargo space instead of passenger seating. There are even storage nooks under the seat cushions. The captain’s chairs of the second row have extra integrated storage spots.

The Mazda5 comes in two Canadian trim levels of GS and GT that are fitted with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine that outputs 157 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque. Although the Mazda5 isn’t equipped with the fuel efficient SkyActiv technology of other Mazda models, it’s still zippy and nimble on the city streets, rating at 9.7 L/km combined, even if loaded to capacity.

Besides being the only compact minivan with rear sliding doors, the 2017 Mazda5 is the most affordable minivan on the market and the only Canadian minivan available with a manual transmission. You can order it with the 6-speed manual stick shift or even upgrade it to a 5-speed automatic if the standard transmission doesn’t suit you.

Standard equipment on the entry-level GS includes 16-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, one USB port, an audio system and remote keyless entry. Upgrades like a power sunroof, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, leather upgrades and reverse sensors are also available.

If the list of upgrades sounds attractive, the GT trim includes all the extras mentioned plus xenon headlamps, fog lamps, leather upholstery, heated front seats and 17-inch alloy wheels for an additional $5000.

The Mazda5 does not come with many of the connectivity features of other models. It’s one of the reasons the model can remain so affordable. It may be an issue if you want the latest infotainment system or smartphone integration through Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. But for most fans of the Mazda5, these features aren’t necessary.

If you’re looking for a reliable, compact family mover with interior space comparable to some larger minivans, the Mazda5 may fit the bill. It doesn’t require much effort to navigate and park on the busiest city streets. And best yet, the MSRP doesn’t break the bank. Visit us today to take one out for a test drive before the back-to-school season gets started and inventory runs low.