2004 Mazda MPV Test Drive

Mazda's zoomy MPV has received lots of attention from the stylists and the drivetrain engineers. For 2004, the result is a much-improved appearance, more spacious and useful interior and what may be the all-round best-handling minivan you can buy. If you're in the market for something that has room for all your stuff yet handles and performs like a compact sedan, the MPV may be the answer to those non-populist dreams. MSRP: $23,260; total vehicle warranty: 4yrs/50,000mi.

First Glance

The latest MPV is the third generation in a line that stretches back to 1990. This version came out as a 2003 model. For 2004, the exterior has been given a more corporate (Mazda) look with the front fascia completely redesigned. The hood, the bumpers, the headlights and even the Mazda signage are all new. The front bumper now includes a built-in air dam, which unfortunately tends to leave the fog lamps, though recessed, too exposed. The overall result of this redesign is, however, a significantly more athletic, somewhat sculptured look. To my eye the 2004's exterior is much more attractive than the 2003's, which I found, frankly, a bit flabby. This latest generation MPV is also perceptibly smaller than Japanese rivals like the 2004 Honda Odyssey (inexplicably scheduled to grow even larger for 2005) Nissan Quest and Toyota Sienna. Unlike its America-only competitors, however, the MPV is also sold in countries where massive lorry-like vehicles built for the suburban American family's perceived needs would be completely out of place and virtually unmarketable. The 2004's attractive taillight assemblage looks like it might have been cribbed from either the 2004 Altima or the BMW M3. Perhaps both.

In the Driver's Seat

The Mazda MPV is significantly shorter and narrower than its main rivals in the North American minivan sweeps; this smaller size makes parking in tight city spots just that much easier. Its ride and handling are taut, much more car-like than previously and definitely more sporty than its direct rivals. Handling and performance were also considerably improved. In fact, these improvements clearly differentiate the MPV from the class leading Honda Odyssey and Chrysler/Dodge minivans. The interior was extensively upgraded for the 2003 model year and carries over unchanged in the 2004. A carbon fibre-like trim replaces the old imitation woodgrain found in earlier MPV models. A new 8-way power driver's seat was included in 2003. This latest-generation MPV features an ingenious 3-row seating arrangement: the 2nd row captain's chairs can be pushed together for bench-style seating. The 2nd row also slides fore and aft. With the spring-loaded 3rd row seats folded down into the floor and the 2nd row captain's seats removed and stowed in the garage, the floor is flat from tailgate to front seats. In this configuration, the interior capacity exceeds 1600 liters.

On the Road

For the 2003 model year, the MPV was given a new 3.0L DOHC V-6 engine producing 200hp and 200 lb-ft of torque. 90% of the torque is available from 1800 rpm. Combined with the new 5-speed automatic, it offers excellent low and mid-range flexibility for easy passing. This is the only engine/transmission combination offered to North Americans. Performance is comparable to the competitions' but thanks to its lighter weight, the MPV can do this with a smaller engine generating fewer horsepower. The benefit to you is better "real world" fuel economy than larger competitors provide. A performance-oriented suspension, which is standard, and a thick steering wheel, provides a driving environment that's probably as close to compact sedan-like as a vehicle of this sort is likely to get. I find the MPV quite fun to drive but then again, I've been a minivan fan since the introduction of the first Dodge Caravan over 20 years ago. I also really like the MPV's exceptionally tight turning radius. It makes an already handy vehicle easy to maneuver and would be especially appreciated on the narrow and crowded streets of European and Asian cities.

Journey's End

The MPV is one of those vehicles that look a lot better in the flesh than in photos. The front and back ends are particularly pleasing to the eye with the heavier Mazda logo on the hood and the MPV and Mazda signage on the rear. The high seating combined with a low steering wheel position reminded me a little of the Audi Allroad -- perhaps my all-time favorite. Second and third row seating is almost theatre-like, making visibility excellent. Unlike principal rivals like the Odyssey and Sienna, the Mazda MPV is sold in quantity in other markets besides North America. Its smaller size, as well as an almost European sedan-like handling and performance reflect a world car ambition. The downside for folks who demand sofa-like cushioning is a ride that is perhaps a shade too firm. For maximum bang for the buck, choose the fully-loaded ES version. Okay, it costs an extra $5K but the package merits every hard-earned penny.