2000-2006 Mazda MPV: Overview

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.