2000 Mazda MPV...Continued

Special Features: Journalists treated to a Southern California MPV event experienced the minivan's innovative third-row seating feature with lunch in the park. The rear of the wagons formed a circle in a delightful rural Orange County park where we all perched comfortably on the third-row bench seat, flipped outward to face a table, and happily munched picnic basket lunches. It's easy to see how this versatile seat will be a hit at tailgate parties as well. The third-row seat, appropriately titled "Tumble-Under," also folds flat into the floor when cargo space is the priority.

Major Options: As noted in the "safety features" paragraph, several of today's leading vehicle safety features are options on this vehicle. Be sure to include as many as possible when outfitting your MPV. Also, you might want to consider the optional "in-dash" CD changer with 180-watt, nine-speaker Super Sound System. This unique changer can accept and store up to six CDs through a single slot in the dashboard.

Buyer Demos: middle-income family mover shoppers

We Looked At:

Roominess: While not commodious, the MPV is comfortable. Labeled "smart size," the vehicle is considerably smaller than its competitors, yet its unique interior (Mazda calls it "OptiSpace") offers room for seven. Driver and rider touring a variety of southern California roads and terrain during the press event test drive had plenty of room in the front compartment on both driver and passenger side of the vehicle. Amply-sized door bins held maps and various paraphernalia. Multiple cupholders stored water bottles and there was even space on the floor of the passenger-side for a bag. An enjoyable ride and drive, indeed.

Driving Position: One of the benefits women, in particular, like about a minivan is the high seating position offering a panoramic view of the road. The wide windows on the MPV accentuate this perk. The driver's seat easily adjusts to anybody's needs. Short folks, however, would do well to add the optional height-adjustment for a more confident driving experience.