Mazda - MPV

1999-04 

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Mazda's MPV is just what it says on the tin: a functional, flexible seven-seater people carrier that's roomy and refined. Size-wise, it matches C8/Ulysse/807, but it's less visually appealing and slightly pricier.

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	Good value and practical used MPV choice
	Roomy interior with seats for seven
	Generous equipment and almost guaranteed reliability
	Uninspiring design, inside and out; lacks identity
	Body rolls heavily when cornering
	Some wind and engine noise at speed

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The Mazda MPV's name has the benefits of clarity and brevity. The car itself is equally matter-of-fact; a high-quality package that does its job and doesn't attract a second glance. There's not much choice - just a 2.0 turbodiesel or a 2.3 petrol engine, with one generous trim level and three rows of seats that accommodate five in comfort and seven when necessary. Passenger/load adaptability is good and the cabin is efficient if a little soul-less.
Refinement is adequate, with a good ride on most surfaces. There's some body roll - the trade-off you'd expect from suspension that's set up for motorway comfort. Both engines are adequate, with the turbodiesel feeling stronger when accelerating. Fuel economy isn't bad, either, with 30mpg from the 2.3 and 40mpg from the 2.0 TD.
Although it has little image, MPV retains its value quite well - some used examples look a bit over-priced at Mazda dealerships.