A few years ago many might have said that Mazda's compact MAZDA5 minivan was the wrong vehicle for the wrong time. But in this age of high gas prices and scaling back in size and power, the MAZDA5 just may have made its appearance in showrooms at exactly the right time. Smaller than any other minivan on the market, the MAZDA5 comfortably seats six and comes with a price tag that won't blow your socks off. And like the MAZDA3 sedans and hatchbacks, which share its platform, the MAZDA5 is impressively packed with features that make it a good value in the eyes of many drivers.

Power is provided by the same fuel-efficient 157-horsepower, 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine used in the MAZDA3 sedans and hatchbacks. An advanced electro-hydraulic steering system provides steering that is firm and responsive, while the sport-tuned suspension features a MacPherson strut design.

Dual sliding doors make it easy to load and unload passengers and cargo, while exterior details include Euro-styled fender-mounted marker lights, a roof-mounted antenna, and 17-inch alloy wheels.

Inside, the MAZDA5 is equipped with a stylish black and silver instrument panel, a tilt/telescopic steering wheel with controls for the audio system and cruise control, an adjustable-height front seat, and fold-down second- and third-row seatbacks.

A Touring model comes with such features as a moon roof, fog lights, a rear spoiler, and body-color side mirrors.