Mazdaspeed 5

[raspykart]

hey guys, I've been pleading with Mazda some time now to make a MS5, it'd be helpful if we all put it to Mazda to make one. Since the 5 doesn't get much attention as it is. I would buy one in a heartbeat for $25ish if it were based on the MS3 drivetrain. Send em some feedback guys, tell em ya love the 5, but.....

[B1GHAM]

you just named your number one reason why it will never happen...

there is almost not enough attention on the Mz5 to keep it on the market. There would be absolutely no market (read: very very very little) for a MS5.

sorry, but unless you build it yourself, I cant see Mazda making a speed version of a mini-minivan

[ottawaP5]

The best you can do is buy some Mazdaspeed parts for it :)

[coolmazda5]

there is almost not enough attention on the Mz5 to keep it on the market. There would be absolutely no market (read: very very very little) for a MS5.


I can agree that the MZ5 target market (i.e. startup families, not speed enthusiasts) may not justify an MS5, but I disagree with your comment as it is only considering the US and Canada. The Mazda5 (and Premacy) is a global model, not a NA centric one (like the CX-9). In other markets it fairs very well (including now China). Possibly that is why we still get it here, even with the low numbers sold

Now, I would not mind a MazdaSpeed5, but the 5MT, 17in wheels and the low profile tires are already enough dough for wife :D

[Killer]

Good luck. (rofl2)

[autoxes]

x2 on what everyone else said, but it would be badass if you turbo'ed yours and made your own MS5

[opus]

If Ford brings the S-Max over it will probably have the Volvo turbo 5 in it with 236 HP and a possible 5 speed. That would be their version of the MSP5. So far, I think the MSP line has not sold terribly well, I had a dealer offering me a MSP6 last summer for $248.00/mo with only 2,000 down. So the idea of a MSP5 is probably the last thing Mazda is looking at right now.

I think the mistake that Mazda made was limiting the 5 to a price point vehicle, in other words, they decontented it in order to keep it South of 18k for the Sport and 20k for the Touring. They really limited the buyers choices as far as interior colors, one!!, and engine choices, once again, ONE!!. I understand the logic behind it, but I think this is why the Rondo is selling like hotcakes and the 5 is sitting on the lots. Well, that and virtually no ad budget for the 5 and a massive ad budget for the Rondo. If they would put a 5spd diesel out that would be able to tow they wouldn't be able to keep them on the lots. If they did do a MSP5, they would probably sell in the 1,000 to 1,200 unit range in the North America, maybe a little better in Europe. Probably not enough to justify development.

[coolmazda5]

If Ford brings the S-Max over it will probably have the Volvo turbo 5 in it with 236 HP and a possible 5 speed. That would be their version of the MSP5. So far, I think the MSP line has not sold terribly well, I had a dealer offering me a MSP6 last summer for $248.00/mo with only 2,000 down. So the idea of a MSP5 is probably the last thing Mazda is looking at right now.

I think the mistake that Mazda made was limiting the 5 to a price point vehicle, in other words, they decontented it in order to keep it South of 18k for the Sport and 20k for the Touring. They really limited the buyers choices as far as interior colors, one!!, and engine choices, once again, ONE!!. I understand the logic behind it, but I think this is why the Rondo is selling like hotcakes and the 5 is sitting on the lots. Well, that and virtually no ad budget for the 5 and a massive ad budget for the Rondo. If they would put a 5spd diesel out that would be able to tow they wouldn't be able to keep them on the lots. If they did do a MSP5, they would probably sell in the 1,000 to 1,200 unit range in the North America, maybe a little better in Europe. Probably not enough to justify development.

Good summary, but few comments:
1. Not all the MazdaSpeeds are created equal i.e. the MazdaSpeed3 (or Mazda3 MSP). One of the reasons why is still produced on 08, it is because it sold very well in 07 (globally)

2. Again, very NA centric comment for the Mazda5. Check this info for Japan (October 2007). Please note it indicates Key models:

[Japan Domestic sales of key models in October 2007]
Mazda2 (Demio) : 5,099 units (up 31.2% year-on-year)
Mazda5 (Premacy) : 2,065 units (up 46.6% year-on-year)

3. Agreed, Mazda5 advertising has been almost null for US and Canada compared to the Rondo, but at the same time take a look at the changes that came based on this market's gripes ONLY (i.e. 2nd Row Seat Vents for A/C).

My feeling is that they are just tasting the Mazda5 waters in NA while still going after the cash cows (CX-7, CX-9 and Mazda3). I'm not trying to say that the 2008 Mazda5s will now sell like hotcakes but in order to compare 1-to-1 with Rondos I would like to see 2008-2008 sales comparisons. Last time I read that the 2008 Rondos were coming with some less features than the 2007s (cheap?) while the Mazda5 has added more features for almost the same buck (US at least).

[raspykart]

well the thing is, the Mazda 3 while advertised well was also pointed a similar market as the 5. The MS3 has done very well from what I've seen locally... not easy to get one and they're desireable. My thing is, it doesn't seem like it'd take much effort for Mazda to make a MS5 using MS3 parts. But yeah like you said, maybe I'll just have to do it myself... buy a used Touring with 5speed... n find a front clip from Japan n marry em.

[raspykart]

Good summary, but few comments:
1. Not all the MazdaSpeeds are created equal i.e. the MazdaSpeed3 (or Mazda3 MSP). One of the reasons why is still produced on 08, it is because it sold very well in 07 (globally)

2. Again, very NA centric comment for the Mazda5. Check this info for Japan (October 2007). Please note it indicates Key models:

[Japan Domestic sales of key models in October 2007]
Mazda2 (Demio) : 5,099 units (up 31.2% year-on-year)
Mazda5 (Premacy) : 2,065 units (up 46.6% year-on-year)

3. Agreed, Mazda5 advertising has been almost null for US and Canada compared to the Rondo, but at the same time take a look at the changes that came based on this market's gripes ONLY (i.e. 2nd Row Seat Vents for A/C).

My feeling is that they are just tasting the Mazda5 waters in NA while still going after the cash cows (CX-7, CX-9 and Mazda3). I'm not trying to say that the 2008 Mazda5s will now sell like hotcakes but in order to compare 1-to-1 with Rondos I would like to see 2008-2008 sales comparisons. Last time I read that the 2008 Rondos were coming with some less features than the 2007s (cheap?) while the Mazda5 has added more features for almost the same buck (US at least).


Amen to that, clearly Mazda 5 owners have gotten through to Mazda in some way, shape, or form. I've sent Mazda a thorough compliment n kudos for listening to us, now they need to hear what else we have to say... honestly who wouldn't want a MS5 made? You want attention given to the 5, that'll do it. When a ricer get pwned by a minivan, or one shows up at autox n wide eyes everybody.... (cabpatch)

[fam]

rig a ms3 turbo on it and call it a day.... youll probably need a roll of duct tape though.

[opus]

I didn't mean I wouldn't love a Mazdaspeed5, we would end up being the third two 5 family on this site. I couldn't get rid of my beloved 06, and I would salivate at being able to smoke a couple of these little rodder boys civics :).

[HotRodSaint]

Comparing the Kia Rondo to the Mazda5 is like comparing the Pontiac Solstice to the Miata (MX-5). If you think they are equal, then buy the non-Mazda.

And how many countries is Mazda in verses Kia?

The problem Mazda has is the inability to increase it's production on the MZ5, or the MZ3 which shares the same manufacturing plant.

The continued success of the MZ3 means that the MZ5 is an after thought for Mazda here and abroad.

This gives Kia the ability to focus on a few markets and make it look like they are being successful. I'd like to know how many they sell globally verses Mazda.

Since Mazda offered no incentives to move the '07 MZ5, it appears they can sell all of them that they can import. Now they just have to figure out how to import more of them. And then maybe they will need advertising to move them.

As for a MSP5, I'd love it. But since it won't happen, save your money and find a salvaged MSP3 and make one for yourself.

[coolmazda5]

Reviving this thread. I was browsing around for some Vauxhall VXR8 details (Pontiac G8 on steroids for us here) and I found that the Vauxhall Zafira VXR seems to be still offered and that the Opel Zafira OPC (Opel Performance Center) was (or is?) offered in Germany.

I'm not sure about the sales, but this should increase the chance of producing a GLOBAL MazdaSpeed5 by 0.387% I believe :D

Sources:
http://www.worldcarfans.com/3051101.002/page1/2006-opel-zafira-opc
http://www.netcarshow.com/opel/2006-zafira_opc/
http://www.vauxhall.co.uk/vx/vxr/html/zafira.html

Videos:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=52ka_cXxCSI (Zafira OPC, Spanish)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AEGP0aqd0HY (Zafira OPC, German)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aIi9d0ADHIw (Zafira VXR, TopGear, mostly talks about seating config. I prefer my Mazda5 3rd row seat)

Whatever it is, a pleasure to see (and get ideas from):

+ 240 hp 2.0-liter turbo engine
+ Zero - 100km/h in 7.8 seconds - maximum speed 231 km/h
+ IDSPlus2: The new generation adaptive chassis control system
+ 6MT

The Zafira OPC's unique sporty potential is expressed in its design: a deep front spoiler with large central engine cooling air-intake and fog lamps, 18-inch wheels in the exclusive OPC six-spoke design with a tire size of 225/40 ZR18 Y, accentuated side sills as well as a powerful looking rear end with trapezoidal tail pipes. As for the body paintwork, there is a choice of the following colors in addition to the OPC color Arden blue: star silver, sapphire black and magma red.

In the interior, top-quality Recaro sports seats (available in two fabric-leather combinations), a leather-covered sports steering wheel and a leather covered gear lever grip, aluminum pedals as well as sports instruments and door sills in the typical OPC design emphasize the vehicle's exclusivity. The seven-seater combines this ambience with exemplary spaciousness and the unbeatable advantages of the patented Flex-7 seating system, whereby it can be effortlessly transformed within seconds into a six-, five-, four-, three-, or two-seater, without the problems of having to remove or store the seats.

The Zafira OPC's chassis and suspension features, just like the engine, a consistently sporty character and offers high active safety reserves. A 17-inch high-performance brake system and IDSPlus2 (Interactive Driving System) play their part, the latter being the latest state of development of the highly developed driving dynamics control system. Within this system all driver assistance systems such as the driving stability control system (ESP), various brake functions and Continuous Damping Control (CDC) are integrated and harmonized with each other. The benefit: excellent handling and further improved suspension comfort. For even sportier handling, the driver can select the "SportSwitch" mode for a firmer chassis set-up.


http://images.worldcarfans.com/articles/2005/11/1/3051101.002/1022big.jpg

http://images.worldcarfans.com/articles/2005/11/1/3051101.002/1021big.jpg

http://images.worldcarfans.com/articles/2005/11/1/3051101.002/1023big.jpg

http://www.vauxhall.co.uk/vx/vxr/html/images/wallpaper/zafira/hero_zafira_02.jpg

[Zoom5Zoom]

there is almost not enough attention on the Mz5 to keep it on the market. There would be absolutely no market (read: very very very little) for a MS5.


Now thats crap ... your source is what?

[AIMWO4]

Friggin' Krauts. Always with the best of autos. (rockon)

I wish I could go back to Europe and have a selection.

[Mazda5 is Alive]

I would love to get my hands on that Opel!!! That thing is MONEY!!

[jeebusm3]

If I had extra cash, time, and no nagging wife to tell me how stupid what I was doing was...

I'd just buy a Mazdaspeed3 and a Mazda5. Swap the Mazdaspeed3 engine, tranny, brakes, and suspension onto the Mazda5. Swap the Mazda5 tranny, engine, and brakes onto the Mazda3, and buy some stock Mazda3 suspension for it.

You'd end up with basically a Mazdaspeed5, and a Mazda3 5-door with nice seats.

[Kojack]

why stop there, put the 3 seats in the 5 too....the front ones just buy an extra set for the second row...ha ha

that opel is awsome....dear GM, saturn that thing with the OPC motor and call it a redline....im knocking on your door!

[coolmazda5]

If I had extra cash, time, and no nagging wife to tell me how stupid what I was doing was...


If I had no wife I think the Mazda5 would not have been on my list, LOL

But talking about the Opel/Vauxhall Zafira OPC/VXR, while trying to connect the dots: It has the same engine as the Astra OPC/VXR, which could become the Saturn Astra RedLine here in the US. And, guess what engine they all have? Ecotec 1998cc 2.0L Turbo I4 240PS, 235lb/ft torque

So far, whatever, have fun Europe, right? Well, that is the same engine that the new Cobalt SS will offer in the US, except that the Cobalt will have some more dough:

Horsepower (hp / kW @ rpm):
260 / 194 @ 5300*
Torque (lb-ft / Nm @ rpm):
260 / 353 @ 2000*

Yeah, Yeah, a Cobalt, but GM at last and it is close to the MazdaSPEED3 engine performance, plus the SS broke the record of 8:22.85-minute lap around the Nurburgring's in Germany, beating the old record for the subcompact class by 13 seconds.

In summary: IMO one of these performance people movers might be closer than you think (2thumbs)... I have a dream!!

Anyway, I have hope, next is to convince wife, if that car comes, to trade in the 06 :D:
http://www.mazdav.com/forum/showthread.php?t=123699486

[808mz5]

there's always the chevyHRR SS with the cobalt 260hp engine... saw it at a new car show this weekend... looks ok but its a chevy! I don't know if i trust it yet.....

[clicknext]

The MS3 and especially MS6 are already struggling enough. Do you really think an MS5 can even do half as well in sales, let alone match them?

[coolmazda5]

The MS3 and especially MS6 are already struggling enough. Do you really think an MS5 can even do half as well in sales, let alone match them?

Good question. Yes, I knew that the MazdaSPEED6 sales struggled, but the MazdaSPEED3 sales were so good that they extended it for 2008 (I'm talking globally, i.e. including the Mazda3 MPS in Europe) so I guess there is a slight chance.

Also, as I understand, Mazda keeps the MazdaSPEED line to make money (of course), but more importantly to give the brand that auto performance maker credibility and recognition, which might not just translate into obscene sales of those models, but to provide Mazda with prestige and presence to sell the rest of the "regular" ones...

I have a dream ;)

[Kojack]

besides the speed aspect of it, im going to make a mazdaspeed5. some cosmetic add ons, some interior ones, some handling ones etc. may not be a turbo, but neither was the MP3 and that was pretty cool!

[rweatherford]

NAAWWS.... ;) (Nitrous)

[~JoJo~]

man if I were to mod my 5, I would do as follow:

front lip kit
springs
new tires

but as far as engine wise, is there enough room to do much mod to it?

[rweatherford]

man if I were to mod my 5, I would do as follow:

front lip kit
springs
new tires

but as far as engine wise, is there enough room to do much mod to it?

Room? What do you mean? Have you looked behind the engine? I think you could fit another engine back there. ;) Take that big plastic cover off and have a look around. (drinks)

[coolmazda5]

NAAWWS.... ;) (Nitrous)

Yikes, and a pair of wings and you are all set :D


Room? What do you mean? Have you looked behind the engine? I think you could fit another engine back there. ;) Take that big plastic cover off and have a look around. (drinks)

N00b question, So why the MazdaSPEED6 and MazdaSPEED3 need an enlarged/bloated hood? Isn't an intercooler or something in there? (scratch)

[jandree22]

N00b question, So why the MazdaSPEED6 and MazdaSPEED3 need an enlarged/bloated hood? Isn't an intercooler or something in there? (scratch)
Yep, TMIC (Top Mount Intercooler). Subaru's have this too, but instead of bloating the hood, the add a functional scoop (FTW, might I add).

http://carsmedia.ign.com/cars/image/article/730/730560/mazdaspeed3-20060905055206057.jpg

[coolmazda5]

Yep, TMIC (Top Mount Intercooler). Subaru's have this too, but instead of bloating the hood, the add a functional scoop (FTW, might I add).


No wonder. At first sight I said: "Damn, that is a huge ass air filter you MazdaSPEED guys" :D

Yeah the scoop is cooler than the hunch I agree. Those turbo I/Cs have to bloat something somewhere at the end, no wonder the HHR SS has a huge front bumper, LOL

http://images.worldcarfans.com/articles/2007/8/16/2070816.001/2070816.001.1M.jpg

[dreamym5]

If I had extra cash, time, and no nagging wife to tell me how stupid what I was doing was...

I'd just buy a Mazdaspeed3 and a Mazda5. Swap the Mazdaspeed3 engine, tranny, brakes, and suspension onto the Mazda5. Swap the Mazda5 tranny, engine, and brakes onto the Mazda3, and buy some stock Mazda3 suspension for it.

You'd end up with basically a Mazdaspeed5, and a Mazda3 5-door with nice seats.

i was thinking *exactly* same thing...(first)

[Captain KRM P5]

when my warranty runs out i'll do one of two things;

- buy a front clip from an ms3
- call cosworth and go broke

[king57721]

when my warranty runs out i'll do one of two things;

- buy a front clip from an ms3
- call cosworth and go broke

I think I will go with cosworth's bolt on. Should be a lot easier and reliable.

[P5w3kids]

If Ford brings the S-Max over it will probably have the Volvo turbo 5 in it with 236 HP and a possible 5 speed. That would be their version of the MSP5. So far, I think the MSP line has not sold terribly well, I had a dealer offering me a MSP6 last summer for $248.00/mo with only 2,000 down. So the idea of a MSP5 is probably the last thing Mazda is looking at right now.

I think the mistake that Mazda made was limiting the 5 to a price point vehicle, in other words, they decontented it in order to keep it South of 18k for the Sport and 20k for the Touring. They really limited the buyers choices as far as interior colors, one!!, and engine choices, once again, ONE!!. I understand the logic behind it, but I think this is why the Rondo is selling like hotcakes and the 5 is sitting on the lots. Well, that and virtually no ad budget for the 5 and a massive ad budget for the Rondo. If they would put a 5spd diesel out that would be able to tow they wouldn't be able to keep them on the lots. If they did do a MSP5, they would probably sell in the 1,000 to 1,200 unit range in the North America, maybe a little better in Europe. Probably not enough to justify development.

Couldn't agree more with this post. I'd love to see an S-Max for a price in the low 30s. With the weak dollar, that might not be doable.