2005 MAZDA MPV NEW CAR BUYER'S GUIDE

What's New for the 2005 Mazda MPV?
Last year, Mazda gave its minivan a freshening, so the 2005 Mazda MPV gets only small alterations to option packages. Air conditioning for the rear seats can now be had as a stand-alone option for the LX, but comes standard with the LX Plus package. Sport packages benefit from a power driver's seat and a HomeLink universal transmitter. New for all 2005 Mazda MPVs is an option that gives you an auto-dimming rearview mirror with a compass, ambient temperature gauge, and HomeLink. A special value model called the SV debuted in spring equipped with the same standard equipment as the LX but with smaller 15-inch wheels and tires, a black plastic front grille, and a single option of rear air conditioning.

Advantages of the 2005 Mazda MPV:

• Trim exterior dimensions a perfect fit for urban environments
• Lively handling characteristics
• Third-row seat folds into the floor
• Second-row seats can be moved together or separated into captain’s chairs
• Windows for second-row seats can be rolled down into the doors
• Good crash test scores
• Available giant sunroof
• Powerful V6 engine

Objections to the 2005 Mazda MPV:

• Smaller interior than competitors
• No stability control option
• No side curtain airbags option

Editor's Advice:
Minivans are supposed to be functional and useful but as dull as dirt, right? Not the 2005 Mazda MPV. Our gripes with this excellent family transporter are few. We wish it were larger inside (though we like the tidy exterior dimensions) and key safety equipment like stability control and side curtain airbags are not available. But few minivans are actually fun to drive so if that's important, make sure that the 2005 Mazda MPV is on your shopping list.