Small MPV Advice

billa_champion

Hi people

I am looking to get a small MPV and am torn between the Mazda 5 and the VW Touran. Anyone got any advice as to which one I should go for?

Billa A

LandyAndy

I would go for the Mazda5.

It's not a very inspiring thing to look at but it will be more reliable and I suspect most MPV buyers value reliability over style;) (not that I think the Touran has much style either:D)

AdrianHi

Problem with the Mazda5 is it is only really 4 full sized seats.
If you are buying used avoid the pre-facelift sport models which have wider wheels apparently not compatible with the cars design resulting in excessive tyre wear (4000-6000 mile tyre life) for which no adjustment can be made to solve it.
If the above is no problem to you it would be my choice.
Subject to test drives my favourite would be Toyota Corolla Verso though.

vikingaero

The centre seat of the Mazda 5 is a problem. You really need to check it out before buying one. It's not a problem for us as we either travel 4 up or 6 up and fold the centre seat away for aisle access to the rear. The biggest boon on the 5 is the sliding doors - all MPVs and Mini MPVs should have them.

The Touran is due to be replaced so there are good deals on offer from broker. Only problem is the ABS issue.

billa_champion

Thanks for your advice people! That's the dilemma I am having. The middle seat of the Mazda5 is annoying but I love the idea of the sliding door. Also, I do find the VW a bit 'boxy' but they probably have a better reputation...oh decisions, decisions!!

dangers

We've just bought a new Mazda 5 and I have used the middle seat on a few occasions without any problems. Admittedly though, this is only with children in the back (or 2 children, 1 adult) and not 3 adults. I love the new car - had a Zafira before, personally I don't think the middle seat is much narrower than the middle seat of the Zafira.

zappahey

billa_champion wrote: »

Also, I do find the VW a bit 'boxy' but they probably have a better reputation...

Depends what reputation you mean. I don't think the Tourans have been that reliable so don't fall for the VW reliability marketing.

wazza

I have a Mazda 5 and found it better handling than touran and zafira. True the middle seat is a bit smallish but is ideal for children. Slim adults can use it for long journeys as well. I had no complaints. Can't really fault it. Had it for over 2 years and no problems.