2005 Mazda MPV - Automobile Magazine
The Mazda MPV doesn't quite measure up to its competitors, but for some buyers, this is a good thing. Meanwhile, the MPV is easy to park on the street and slides into the garage without fuss. Mazda introduced the MPV way back in 1988, becoming one of the first Japanese automakers to compete in the minivan category. Other minivans may have more powerful engines, but their tonnage is far greater than the MPV's modest 3772 pounds. The MPV achieves an EPA fuel economy rating of 18/25 mpg. Completing the MPV's refined powertrain is a five-speed automatic transmission with electronically controlled overdrive. ) Mazda's "Slope Control" keeps the transmission in the choicest ratio during runs through the mountains. The front-wheel-drive chassis was subject to a faint amount of torque steer when we hurried away from a dead stop while keeping the steering wheel turned. With an independent coil-over-strut front suspension and a torsion beam with coil springs at the rear-and stabilizer bars at both ends-the MPV can be driven quite briskly with confidence. Source: www.automobilemag.com
