2000-2006 Mazda MPV: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 2000-2006 Mazda MPV and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Handling/roadholding
- Cargo room
- Instruments/controls
- Passenger room
Cons
- Acceleration (2000-01)
- Automatic-transmission performance
Vehicle Highlights
Built in Japan, Mazda's minivan earned its first redesign since the vehicle appeared back in 1989. Sliding rear side doors replaced the previous swing-out doors. Instead of rear-wheel drive, the 2000 model had front-wheel drive. Base DX, upscale LX and luxury-oriented ES versions went on sale. All used a 2.5-liter, dual-overhead-cam V6 engine, based on a Ford design. (Ford was Mazda's parent company.) A four-speed automatic was the sole transmission. Antilock braking was standard on LX and ES models, but not available at all on the DX. Dual sliding side doors contained roll-down windows, which ranked as a minivan "first." Power door operation was not available. All MPVs seated seven. Second-row buckets could slide together to create a two-passenger bench. The three-place, third-row bench seat folded flat into the floor. The midrange LX minivan had cruise control, power windows, and power door locks. Mazda's ES minivan added front side airbags, leather upholstery, and rear air conditioning. Rivals included the Dodge Caravan, Honda Odyssey, and Toyota Sienna.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Mazda MPV LX Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 2 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 5 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 5 | |
| Quietness | 5 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 7 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 6 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 9 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 56 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 2000-2006 Mazda MPV. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 2000-2006 Mazda MPV.
Year to Year Changes
2001 Mazda MPV:
No change was evident for 2001. A sporty optional appearance package for LX and ES models included fog lights and aero body add-ons. Leather upholstery remained exclusive to the ES minivan.
2002 Mazda MPV:
Mazda extended the 2001 model year into early 2002, awaiting the arrival of a revamped MPV. On sale by spring, the new model had a more powerful (200-horsepower) V6 engine driving a five-speed automatic transmission, power sliding side doors, revised suspension settings, and 17-inch alloy wheels.
2003 Mazda MPV:
A low-cost LX-SV was added midyear and power operation for the side doors was made optional on both the ES and LX.
2004 Mazda MPV:
Mazda's minivan gets exterior front and rear styling changes for 2004. Inside, the van received a new steering wheel, gauge surrounds, and a spring assist designed to help the 3rd-row seats fold into the floor this year.
2005 Mazda MPV:
For 2005, rear air conditioning moves from standard on LX to optional; it remains standard on ES.
2006 Mazda MPV:
For 2006, a base LX-SV model joins LX and top-shelf ES versions.
Our road test for the 2000-2006 Mazda MPV includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 2000-2006 Mazda MPV and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 2000-2006 Mazda MPV is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Because the MPV serves Mazda globally, exterior dimensions aim mainly at European and Asian use. Therefore, it's smaller than American minivan buyers might prefer. Trimmer size brings performance benefits, however, led by good handling. With 16-inch wheels, an MPV carves corners with outstanding balance and grip. Close-quarters maneuverability also is impressive. Steering is faithful and communicative, antilock braking is linear and strong, the ride is flat, and bumps are absorbed capably. On the downside, until the 3.0-liter V6 arrived for 2002, the vehicle was simply too heavy for its engine. Progress is okay from a standing start and in flatland cruising, but the early MPV feels underpowered in hilly terrain and when passing. In addition, its automatic transmission tends to settle into the least-optimal gear, then downshifts too late to be of much value. The 2.5-liter V6 also emits a coarse growl under even moderate throttle, though other sound levels are pleasantly low. Despite its relative compactness, the MPV doesn't feel cramped. Front seating is spacious. Front- and second-row cushions are comfortably thick and supportive, though the third-row bench is flat and hard. The sliding second-row arrangement is useful, but exposed floor tracks may collect debris. Second- and third-row knee clearance is adequate for 6-footers. Mazda's clever "tumble-under" rear bench, like that in Honda's Odyssey, flips to create rear-facing tailgate-party seating. It folds with little effort, and easily removable second-row seats weigh just 37 pounds each. Attractive, readable gauges and simple controls are pleasing, though the gear selector blocks some radio buttons. Entry/exit isn't so convenient because side doors don't open far. Performance definitely improved (though not dramatically so) with the bigger 2002 engine, though air-conditioner output is modest.
Value for the Money
Although the small 2000-01 engine is easily overtaxed, the MPV does an admirable job of packaging people and cargo, while delivering sporty handling. Still, a Caravan or Odyssey is roomier and more powerful.
Although the small 2000-01 engine is easily overtaxed, the MPV does an admirable job of packaging people and cargo, while delivering sporty handling. Still, a Caravan or Odyssey is roomier and more powerful.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Mazda MPV LX Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 2 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 5 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 5 | |
| Quietness | 5 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 7 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 6 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 9 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 56 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Mazda MPV includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Mazda MPV .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Dashboard lights:
On early production vehicles, the check-engine light may come on reporting a problem with the oxygen sensors which are not the problem, but the powertrain-control module is misprogrammed. (2000)
Information stickers/paperwork:
A recall was issued because the tire-specifications label on the door and in the owner's manual was incorrect. Owners were sent stickers to update the information which buyers should look for to avoid replacing the tires with the wrong size. (2000)
Paint/body:
As a result of crash tests done by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the carmaker will install front bumper supports at no cost. (2000)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $650 |
| Alternator | $410 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,200 |
| Brakes | $465 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $410 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $750 |
| Exhaust System | $450 |
| Radiator | $475 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $140 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $350 |
Our price chart for this generation Mazda MPV details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 2006 | |||
| MPV ES | $14,300-15,500 | $13,000-14,100 | $8,900-9,600 |
| MPV LX | $11,500-12,500 | $10,400-11,300 | $6,300-6,900 |
| 2005 | |||
| MPV ES | $12,000-13,000 | $10,800-11,700 | $6,700-7,300 |
| MPV LX | $9,800-10,800 | $8,800-9,700 | $5,100-5,600 |
| 2004 | |||
| MPV ES | $9,700-10,700 | $8,700-9,600 | $5,000-5,600 |
| MPV LX | $8,300-9,300 | $7,500-8,400 | $4,300-4,800 |
| 2003 | |||
| MPV ES | $8,000-9,000 | $7,200-8,100 | $4,100-4,600 |
| MPV LX | $6,700-7,700 | $5,900-6,800 | $3,100-3,500 |
| 2002 | |||
| MPV ES | $6,500-7,500 | $5,700-6,600 | $2,900-3,400 |
| MPV LX | $5,200-6,100 | $4,400-5,200 | $2,100-2,400 |
| 2001 | |||
| MPV DX, LX | $3,800-4,700 | $3,100-3,900 | $1,200-1,500 |
| MPV ES | $5,000-5,900 | $4,300-5,000 | $2,000-2,400 |
| 2000 | |||
| MPV DX, LX | $2,800-3,500 | $2,100-2,600 | $600-800 |
| MPV ES | $3,900-4,600 | $3,200-3,800 | $1,200-1,400 |
|
|
|||
This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Mazda MPV include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 4-door van | |
| Wheelbase, in. | 111.8 | |
| Overall Length, in. | 187.0 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 72.1 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 68.7 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3657 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 127.0 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 18.5 | |
| Seating Capacity | 7 | |
| Front Head Room, in. | 41.0 | |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 40.8 | |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 39.3 | |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 37.0 | |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Mazda's dual-overhead-cam, 2.5-liter V6 engine developed 170 horsepower, working with a four-speed automatic transmission. A 3.0-liter V6 and five-speed automatic replaced the previous engine as part of the mid 2002 revamping.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| dohc V6 | 2.5 / 152 | 170 | 165 | 4-speed automatic: 18/23 | 4-speed automatic: -- |
| dohc V6 | 3.0 / 182 | 200 | 200 | 5-speed automatic: -- | 5-speed automatic: -- |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: Japan
Drive Wheels: transverse front-engine/front-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Mazda MPV include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Vehicle crash test information not available at this time.The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 2000-2006 Mazda MPV directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
2000:
Fuel injectors were not properly matched to the lower intake manifold and may allow fuel leakage.
2000:
Rear doors may not lock completely when the childproof locking system is engaged due to accumulation of dust in the locking mechanism.
2000-01:
Due to inappropriate brake-pipe layout, some vehicles do not meet the brake stopping-distance requirements of the standard.
2001:
Some passenger-airbag modules were not properly welded and may not deploy in a collision.
2001-02:
A defective cruise control cable may break and cause the cruise control to malfunction. Dealers will inspect and replace affected parts.
2001-02:
Cruise-control actuator cable may be broken and out of position, which could interfere with operation of accelerator cable; some 2000 models that have had cruise control repaired may also be affected.
2002:
The gross axle-weight rating (GAWR) is listed incorrectly on the certification label.
2002-03:
Improper wiring of front fog lights on certain vehicles may cause a fire. Dealer will inspect and replace affected parts.
2003-04:
Tire inflation pressure indicated vehicle identification label is incorrect.
2004:
The front passenger air bag may have incorrect wiring, resulting in non-deployment in a crash. Dealers will inspect and replace affected parts.
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