Overall Rating |  |
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.
For
- Good value and practical used MPV choice
- Roomy interior with seats for seven
- Generous equipment and almost guaranteed reliability
Against
- Uninspiring design, inside and out; lacks identity
- Body rolls heavily when cornering
- Some wind and engine noise at speed
Road Test
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.
Need To Know
NCAP: Not tested
Best Models: 2.0 TD
Worst Models: 2.3
Replacement: 2005 by the smaller Mazda 5
Alternatives
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Star Ratings
Handling Comfort Quality & Reliability  Performance Roominess  Running Costs Value for Money Stereo/Sat Nav  |
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