The Mazda 5, known as the Premacy in some markets, represented Mazda’s entry into the compact minivan segment. Introduced in 2005 and continuing through 2010 (with a significant refresh in 2008), the first generation (CW) Mazda 5 aimed to provide a more engaging driving experience than traditional minivans while still offering practical seating for up to seven passengers. The 1.8i variant, producing 115 horsepower, was a key model in many European and Asian markets, offering a balance between affordability and usability. Production of this specific configuration ran from 2005 to 2007. It was positioned as the entry-level engine option, appealing to buyers prioritizing fuel economy and lower running costs over outright performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mazda |
| Model | 5 |
| Generation | 5 I |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8i (115 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2005 |
| End of production | 2007 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.9 l/100 km (29.8 US mpg, 35.8 UK mpg, 12.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 190 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 182 km/h (113.09 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.1 kg/Hp, 82.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.5 kg/Nm, 118.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 64 Hp/l |
| Torque | 165 Nm @ 4000 rpm (121.7 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | L823 |
| Engine displacement | 1798 cm3 (109.72 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83.1 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1395 kg (3075.45 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2090 kg (4607.66 lbs.) |
| Max load | 695 kg (1532.21 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 538 l (19 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1678 l (59.26 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Length | 4505 mm (177.36 in.) |
| Width | 1755 mm (69.09 in.) |
| Height | 1615 mm (63.58 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2750 mm (108.27 in.) |
| Front track | 1530 mm (60.24 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1520 mm (59.84 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm (5.51 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 1.8i Mazda 5 was the L823 engine, a 1.8-liter (1798cc) inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine belonged to Mazda’s F-series, known for its relatively simple and robust design. The L823 featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its respectable power output for its displacement. Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing precise fuel metering for improved efficiency and emissions control. The compression ratio was set at 10.8:1. This engine was not known for cutting-edge technology, but rather for its reliability and ease of maintenance. The 1.8L engine was paired with a 5-speed manual transmission in this configuration, offering a balance between fuel economy and drivability.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.8i Mazda 5, with its 115 horsepower and 165 Nm (121.7 lb-ft) of torque, offered adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took around 11.4 seconds, which was competitive within its class but noticeably slower than the more powerful 2.0-liter or diesel variants. The 5-speed manual transmission provided reasonable control, but the engine required frequent downshifts when overtaking or climbing hills. The power delivery was linear, but lacked the punch of larger engines. The focus was on providing a comfortable and economical driving experience rather than sporty performance. The relatively light weight of the vehicle (around 1395 kg) helped to mitigate the effects of the modest power output.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.8i trim level typically served as the base model in many markets. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a basic audio system. Safety features such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and front airbags were also standard. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional but relatively simple design. Optional extras included alloy wheels, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. Higher trim levels, such as the 2.0i, offered more luxurious features like leather upholstery, automatic climate control, and premium audio systems.
Chassis & Braking
The Mazda 5 utilized a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout. The suspension consisted of a MacPherson strut setup at the front and a coil spring arrangement at the rear. This configuration provided a comfortable ride quality, although it wasn’t particularly sporty. The braking system featured ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. The steering was rack and pinion with electric power assistance, offering light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.8i Mazda 5 was generally well-received as an affordable and practical family vehicle. Critics praised its spacious interior, versatile seating configuration, and relatively engaging driving dynamics compared to other minivans. However, the 1.8-liter engine was often criticized for being underpowered, especially when fully loaded with passengers and luggage. Compared to the 2.0-liter gasoline engine, the 1.8i offered significantly less power and acceleration. The diesel variants, while more expensive, provided superior fuel economy and torque. Despite these drawbacks, the 1.8i remained a popular choice for buyers prioritizing value and fuel efficiency.
Legacy
The first-generation Mazda 5, including the 1.8i variant, established Mazda as a credible player in the compact minivan segment. The L823 engine proved to be a reliable unit, and many examples are still on the road today. While not known for exceptional performance, the 1.8i Mazda 5 offered a practical and affordable transportation solution for families. In the used car market, these models are often sought after for their low running costs and relatively simple mechanical design. However, potential buyers should be aware of potential age-related issues such as rust and wear and tear on suspension components.
