I test drove the Orlando, in automatic though. None of the dealers have manuals. It was an ok ride. Cabin feels nice and good space for 7. My 6'1" self is a bit more comfy in the third row due to more head room and slightly more leg room, but I'm still seated squatting.
The engine and six speed automatic performed reasonably well but I would've love to drive a manual for a true comparison compared to my 5. The automatic transmission seemed to have trouble figuring out which gear to be in when I wanted to push it but it was good for normal driving.
The dashboard is well laid out although the volume and radio dial knobs were a bit small. Volume can be adjusted on the steering wheel, standard on the LT. The middle row 12V plug would sure come in handy for those DVD players.
Bad side, automatic climate control only available on the top of the line model. This feature as well as rain sensing wipers and automatic lights are standard on the Mazda 5. The seats although reasonably bolstered laterally don't feel very supportive. My legs were starting to feel numb half an hour in.
Even then I certainly applaud GM for bringing in this good little seven seater, especially one available with a manual transmission.
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I am here:
http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=49.256545,-122.785717
