Mazda's minivan probably won't wow you with its excessive
size, but every other aspect of the vehicle will raise the
eyebrows. The price is usually just right, the flexibility
attractive and the features useful and comfortable.
Another important feature to car buyers-and especially
minivan shoppers-is the MPV's safety. It is certainly crash-ready,
as is evidenced by the ratings it has received. The 2004
Mazda MPV has virtually mastered every collision type, making
it one of a few passenger vans to receive five stars in
the four collision categories.
The 2004 Mazda MPV is bolder looking on the inside and
out. New appearance features mark what should be another
strong sales year for the capable minivan.
Available Models
There are two 2004 Mazda MPV models available: LX and ES.
Interior Features
The Mazda MPV has dual sliding doors that can be power operated.
It has three rows of seating and seats seven. In addition,
the MPV also offers 127 cubic feet of cargo volume.
Flexibility is one of the MPV's strong points. The second
row bucket seats feature Mazda's exclusive Side-by-Slide
seating arrangement. It allows the seats to move fore, aft
and also together. This combines the bucket seats to create
a bench.
In addition, the 2004 Mazda MPV comes equipped with a center
storage console mounted between the two front bucket seats.
There are also assist grips on the backs of the front seats,
driver and passenger vanity mirrors and larger hooks in
the cargo area to provide more flexibility for tying down
big, bulky items.
Exterior Features
Both the front and rear ends have been touched up for 2004.
A power sunroof is optional on both MPV models.
Performance
One efficient engine powers the Mazda MPV this year. It
is a 3.0-liter V6 model that is found with other Mazda vehicles.
The V6 is able to generate up to 200 horsepower at 6200
rpm and 200 lb-ft of torque at 3000 rpm.
MPVs use a front-wheel drive setup. A 5-speed automatic
transmission is the sole transaxle available for 2004. Teamed
up with the V6 engine, it gives the MPV a fuel rating of
18/25 mpg (city/highway).
Some minivan owners need to haul things like boats or campers,
and for this the manufacturers at Mazda offer a 4-Seasons
Towing Package. It includes a rear heater, heated mirrors,
a heavy-duty wiper motor, a larger washer tank, transmission-oil
cooler and a heavy-duty battery and radiator.
Safety and Security
Both models have antilock 4-wheel disc brakes. The ES adds
traction control and front side airbags.
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Car Reviews
2004
Mazda MPV - Specs
2004
Mazda MPV - Price Quote
