Acceleration
"Adequate, though driver must frequently floor the gas pedal to achieve good progress, especially in hilly terrain or in highway merging or passing."

Value
"MPV feels well-built and does an admirable job of people and parcel packaging. It's among the best-handling minivans, and while the V6 isn't a paragon of power or smoothness, it is adequate. MPV merits consideration if sheer interior expanse isn't a priority. Note that Mazda plans to cease production of the MPV during the 2006 model year. "

Ride
"Reasonably absorbent, no undue float at speed, though test ES with its 17-inch tires feels more comfortable and controlled than LX with 16s."

Economy
"Test ES averaged 21.9 mpg. That's better than the minivan norm, but our test included lots of highway driving. Mazda recommends regular-grade fuel."

Noise
"V6 subdued except in full-throttle acceleration. Wind noise generally low, though road roar intrudes on some surfaces."

Comfort - Front
Step-in height slightly higher than most minivans. Seats supportive. Taller drivers may wish for more head and leg room. Good visibility to all quarters. Handy storage platform between front seats flips down for walk-through passage.

Comfort - Rear
"Second-row cushions comfortable, 3rd-row bench flat and hard, but both reasonably roomy. Second-row buckets slide forward, but bases remain stationary, so no gain in 3rd-row foot space. Slide-together 2nd-row arrangement of some value, but exposed floor tracks collect debris. Power rear-door windows a bonus. Entry/exit hurt by 2nd row that doesn't flip forward, side doors that don't open as far as longer minivans."

Controls
"Attractively arranged gauges. Radio, climate system simple and close by, but steering-column-mounted transmission shift lever blocks the driver from seeing or reaching some of those frequently used controls. Standard tilt steering wheel includes auxiliary audio controls. Interior materials, workmanship a cut above the norm."

Cargo Room
"Third-row bench folds neatly into floor, flips to create rear-facing tailgate-party seating. Spare tire stores under center of chassis, opening a well behind 3rd row for good cargo room even with all seats in place. Second-row buckets weigh 40 lb, remove easily. Assist grips on front seatbacks include hooks for purses, backpacks, grocery bags."