Mazda5 gets some Bolognese sauce

Mazda is going further down the sporty route with its revised Mazda5 MPV, which is unveiled at the Bologna Show. And to give the people carrier extra spice, there's an optional Sport Appearance Pack to give an even more aggressive look.

All Mazda5s gain reshaped front and rear bumpers, new lights at both ends, and there's a new range of 16- and 17-inch alloy wheels. For the first time in this sector, Mazda will offer powered sliding rear doors, which open and close electrically and can be worked from the key fob.

There's also a much revised 2.0-litre petrol engine, which now features sequential valve timing and an electrically-operated throttle. The benefits of these changes are peak torque coming in at lower revs and the engine responding more quickly to the driver's inputs. Mazda has also introduced a new six-speed manual gearbox and optional five-speed auto' to make the most of this new engine. Mazda promises reduced emissions and fuel consumption across the range, but has not given firm details yet.

Changes to the interior are less radical and include the addition of a 7-inch screen for the optional DVD satnav system that is now integrated into the centre console. There's also a connector for an MP3 player and new in-dash 6-disc CD autochanger.

Mazda says it has made the 5 quieter inside thanks to new front and rear dampers and new sound insulation made from Thinsulate, the material used for sports clothing.

No word on UK pricing as yet, but expect a small increase when the revised Mazda5 goes on sale in Britain in January.

Alisdair Suttie

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