Mazda expanded its line of compact, front-wheel-drive Mazda 5 minivans for 2007 by adding an upscale Grand Touring trim package, which joined two other versions, the Sport and the Touring. All three Mazda 5 models were powered by a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine that generated 157 horsepower. The Grand Touring came with a four-speed automatic transmission as standard equipment, while for the Sport and Touring packages a five-speed manual transmission was standard, and the automatic was optional.

In keeping with recent Mazdas, the list of standard features for the Mazda 5 models was extensive. Air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, anti-locks brakes, cruise control, and keyless entry were standard on all vehicles, while the Touring package added a power moonroof, and the Grand Touring package added Xenon headlights, heated front seats, and leather-trimmed seats.

Drivers liked the Mazda 5's versatility, roominess (especially in the rear seats), performance, and styling, and for the most part, had few negative comments about the vehicle.