In 1996, the Mazda MPV became a four-door minivan, and was one of the first four-door passenger vans available in the U.S. (in previous years, it came with three doors). In addition, the front end and instrument panel were updated, a passenger-side airbag joined the driver's-side airbag, and anti-lock brakes were extended to all four wheels (previously they had been available only on the rear wheels). The MPV was available in DS, ES, and LX versions for 1996. The entry-level DS package was available with two-wheel drive only, while the ES and LX packages were available with either two-wheel or four-wheel drive. Power for all versions of the MPV was provided by a 3.0-liter V6 engine that produced 155 horsepower. A four-speed automatic transmission was standard on all models. Standard features for the MPV included power brakes, power steering, dual airbags, power windows, power exterior mirrors, a tilt steering wheel, a third seat, and an AM/FM/cassette audio system. The LX version added cruise control and power door locks, while the ES version added leather Captain's chairs and two-tone paint, among other features. Drivers considered the MPV to be a good family vehicle, thanks to its versatility and functionality. However, some drivers noted that the vehicle could be noisy, while others pointed out that the MPV's handling and ride could have been better. As far as build quality was concerned, drivers were mixed in their opinions, with some reporting few problems with their vehicles and others reporting having frequent problems requiring repair.