Mazda 5 wish list discussion

[torquelover]

I'd like to add to the somewhat off-topic discussion of comparing MPG between the 5 and the Honda Odyssey. And also a Chrysler Town and Country. Our '05 Oddy Touring with cylinder deactivation never saw MPGs in the 20's. It averaged 14-17 MPG. I was tempted to up the tire pressures a bit but the oddball sized Michelin PAX tires were already too harsh on impacts at the stock psi. Way too many issues for a $40k car so that one was traded off within a year. We still have an '03 Chrysler Town and Country 3.8 liter with gobs of low-end torque and it gets a solid 20/27. Our new 5 under the same conditions is around 21 city, and 26 highway. Still needs to break-in and loosen up, but the difference in MPG is negligible for now. The RPMs are low enough on the highway, but I was expecting better. I'm wondering what we'll see at 80 MPH with A/C on max and a full load of people/luggage? Will find out this summer.

Back to the topic at hand, we only have 1k on our 5 so far, but I will add some items in no particular order:
Slim down the shifter protrusion on the dash for more leg space.
Factory tint for 2nd and 3rd rows + hatch.
6-speed auto.
Backup camera (stock on all trim levels of 2012 CRVs I also looked at).
6-speed manual on all trim levels (why Canada and not the US?).
Power sliding doors and hatch.
Additional 7th seat.
Longer seat cushions up front.
Auto locking doors once underway.
Illuminated entry(surprised at this. Need to read the manual).
Better stereo sound quality.
Less wind noise from up front.
Factory remote start needs to keep engine running upon entering vehicle.

That's all for now.