PETALING JAYA, May 23 — Bermaz Motor Sdn Bhd, the local distributor of the Mazda brand added yet another vehicle with SKYACTIV technology in the form of the Mazda 5 MPV.

The latest Mazda 5 is actually a face-lifted version of the current Mazda 5, the main additions being the SKYACTIV-G 2.0 litre engine and the SKYACTIV Drive 6-speed automatic transmission that is also found in the Mazda CX-5 currently being assembled in Mazda’s dedicated assembly line at the Inokom plant in Kulim, Kedah.

This brings the total number of SKYACTIV Mazda models available here to four. Mazda started the move to SKYACTIV technology with the CX-5 SUV, followed by the Mazda 6, and the Mazda 3. Towards the end of the year, we are expecting the Mazda 2 to join the ranks of SKYACTIV models.

The Mazda 5 is a seven-seater MPV and ideal for family use. The three row seating configuration, starting from the driver’s position and moving towards the rear, is 2:3:2. The last row folds down flat to make it a 5-seater with luggage space. The middle row has many permutations for splitting and folding to provide versatility for stowage of lengthy and bulky items should the need arise.

A direct-injection (read as high technology), DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) SKYACTIV-G engine with a displacement of 1,998 cc powers the Mazda 5. This is the same engine that is found in the CX-5 SUV currently on sale here.

Power is delivered via the front wheels through a 6-speed SKYACTIV-Drive automatic transmission. Mechanically, the main components of the Mazda 5 drive train should be quite similar to that of the CX-5 Front-wheel drive model save for a few minor details. The SKYYACTIV G engine delivers 149 horsepower and 190Nm of torque peaking at 4,100 rpm, and should provide good enough power to move the 1,535 kg Mazda 5 (kerb weight). The combination of the SKYACTIV-G engine and the SKYACTIV-Drive transmission should provide the Mazda 5 with excellent fuel consumption and driveability.

We do have other articles on this website that will provide a more thorough insight into how SKYACTIV technology works, but in a nutshell, the SKYACTIV-G engine technology runs a uniquely high compression ratio of 14:1, which combine with direct Injection (fuel injected directly into the cylinders instead of into the intake manifold) to provide better fuel efficiency. The SKYACTIV Drive automatic transmission which features a unique lock-up clutch to minimise transmission slip, works in tandem with the engine to minimise transmission losses and further promote fuel efficiency.

Ride and handling need not be compromised too much just on account of the Mazda 5 being an MPV — it features four-wheel independent suspension made up of MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link set-up in the rear, with coil springs all round. Brakes are discs all round, with the front ones being ventilated.

The Mazda 5 comes packed with a comprehensive package, which includes auto on-off halogen lights, power-foldable wing mirrors, a 4-speaker audio system, GPS system and reverse camera. There is an LCD display at the front, while the middle row gets two monitor screens mounted behind the headrests of the driver and front passenger seats.

Driver and passenger conveniences include a tilt and telescopic steering, rain sensing wipers, dual power sliding doors for the rear passengers, and a fully automatic air-conditioner with vents for the second row, plus a sunroof.

Mazda have also put in a comprehensive safety package; 4-wheel ABS is standard, and the system is equipped with EBD (Electronic brakeforce distribution), BA (Brake Assist), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), and Traction Control System (TCS). There are ISOFIX child seat anchors and a two-airbag system for driver and front passenger.

The overall package is available for RM153, 019.20 (private registration, price on-the-road without insurance), and there are four colours available.