Oxford Press

Mazda makes some interesting cases for smaller modes of transportation, as evidenced by a couple of 2008 models that we drove in back-to-back weeks.

First up was the midsize sport-utility vehicle CX-7. This is part of the rage of the 21st century, the crossover, which is similar to an SUV but with car underpinnings and comfort features. The CX-7 packs many of the selling points of Mazda's larger CX-9 into a package that is 15 inches shorter.

Next up was the Mazda5, which truly puts the term mini into minivan — if that's what you want to call it. Some might refer to the Mazda5 as a compact sedan or a hatchback, but what puts it into minivan territory are the sliding rear doors. At nearly two feet shorter than a Dodge Grand Caravan, the Mazda5 isn't a typical car-pooler. With seating for six people, though, it can be just that. Third-row seating for two seems almost incomprehensible considering the outward impression it makes, but the Mazda5 pulls it off.

Each of these Mazda selections has some strong selling points. With the CX-7, there is the 244-horsepower, 2.3-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. Lively is an apt description, and despite a weight of nearly two tons, the CX-7 handles in a positive manner proportionate to the engine.

With the Mazda5 it's that ability to carry six people if necessary but in a car that is small enough for congested city driving or mall parking lots. The Mazda5 also provides armrests for each of the seats in the first two rows, a feature not always found on vehicles of this size.

Both of these Mazdas come in three trim levels — Sport, Touring and Grand Touring. The CX-7 is available either with front-wheel or all-wheel drive in all trims while the Mazda5 is strictly front-wheel drive. We tested the top-of-the-line Grand Touring both times, with the CX-7 coming with AWD.

While the CX-7 has stayed largely the same since its debut in 2007, the Mazda5 has received exterior and interior makeovers. Much of the front end, from grille to headlights, takes on a different look for 2008 and the taillights do, too.

Inside, the look of the gauges has been updated and more of the armrests we liked put in place. The automatic transmission (a manual is offered on the Sport) is now a 5-speed in place of a 4-speed.

Cargo volume is often an issue with an SUV — otherwise most people would just buy cars. The CX-7 offers nearly 30 cubic feet of space behind the second row of seats and 58.6 cubic feet when the second-row seats are folded (they do not, however, fold flat). The best part of the cargo area is the flooring that can be flipped to switch between plastic and carpet.

The Mazda5 has a much lower loading height than the CX-7 and — hold on here — even more cargo space when the second- and third-row seats are folded. Granted, there is minimal space behind the third row, but with that split/folding bench down, the space is 44 cubic feet. With the second-row buckets also down, volume increases to 70.9 cubic feet.

Each of the Mazdas that we drove were dressed up with navigation systems, the one in the CX-7 as part of a Technology Package that also included a rearview camera, upgraded sound system with 6-disc in-dash CD changers and moonroof and keyless entry and start system.

EPA mileage ratings are friendlier toward the Mazda5

with ratings of 21 mpg/city and 27 mpg/highway. The heavier, turbocharged CX-7 is rated 16 mpg/city and 22 mpg/highway.

David Mikesell is a free-lance automotive reviewer based in Indianapolis.