The Mazda MPV was one of the earliest Japanese vans to reach the U.S. market, and among the first to be designed specifically for North American buyers. Built from the ground up and based on Mazda 929 sedan's platform, the MPV was a rear-wheel drive vehicle from its introduction in 1989 until 2000, when it became a front-wheel-drive. It also was available in both two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive until its redesign in 2000.
One element that distinguished the MPV from its competition was its hinged rear door, on the passenger side, rather than a sliding door. In 1996 Mazda added a fourth hinged door behind the driver's-side door. The hinged rear doors remained until the MPV's redesign in 2000, when they were replaced with sliding doors. In late-model vehicles, power sliding doors were available as either standard features or options, depending on the trim package.
Through most of its history, the MPV was considered to be underpowered by many. The earlier models were powered by either a 121-horsepower, 2.6-liter four-cylinder engine or a 150-horsepower, 3.0-liter V6. Power was steadily increased through the years, but it wasn't until a 200-horsepower 3.0-liter V6 engine was dropped under the hood in 2002 that the MPV was considered adequately powered.
Throughout the 1990s and into the 21st century, the MPV was updated but its size and shape remained essentially unchanged. This allowed some competitors' vans to exceed the MPV in size, power, and features. But there were many drivers who appreciated the MPV for what it was -- a small yet versatile minivan. Drivers noted that, for the most part, the MPV was a reliable vehicle that handled well and had plenty of room for people and cargo. It was also considered to be a good value. As Mazda continued to make upgrades to the minivan, it gained a sportier look and more nimble handling, but it has remained a true minivan up to the current model year.
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