Mazda5 news - Powersliding with the Mazda5 - 2007

We were, we must confess, a touch surprised to find the phrase 'power sliding' in the press release for the facelifted Mazda5. 

Because, while the boxy MPV is a decent, capable family lugger, it's not the sort of car we'd normally associate with sideways, tyre-smoking action. 

'Power sliding' it said, though. But before we rushed the new 5 down to the Top Gear test track, we thought we ought to take a closer look at the press release. 'Power sliding rear doors', in fact. Ah. 

The Mazda5 has always had sliding rear doors, but now you can order them in electric powersliding flavour. It's one of a whole host of little improvements that should bring the 5 up to date without running the risk of making it genuinely exciting.

Visual refreshments include new front and rear bumpers and light clusters, and a new front grille. Although the engine range remains the same, consumption and CO2 levels have been improved, while all models now come with a six-speed manual 'box as standard.

Anything else? Mazda says the new 5 will be quieter on the road, and there's also an aux jack thrown in. Which is nice. 

The revised 5 will go on sale in the UK early next year. Don't expect any powersliding.