One reason for the MPV's responsiveness is its flat torque curve. Fully 90 percent of this engine's maximum torque is available from 1800 to 5500 rpm; and its torque peaks at only 3000 revs. Torque is the force that actually accelerates a vehicle. Or, to put it another way, this is the same engine that powers the Mazda Tribute sport-utility vehicle, and it has been acclaimed as the strongest engine in that class.

Just as important is the five-speed automatic transmission that debuted last year along with the new engine. It's smooth and responsive, always in the right gear. And with five ratios it does a much better job of keeping the V6 revving in the power zone than the four-speed automatic that's found in most minivans. MPV's five-speed automatic includes a Slope Control feature that holds fourth gear when climbing hills instead of hunting up and down through the gears.

The 3.0-liter V6 gets better highway gas mileage than the 2.5-liter V6 Mazda used in pre-2002 MPVs.

MPV drives more like a tall car than a minivan, though driving it is still a minivan experience. Compared with other minivans, it handles better on winding roads and maneuvers better in tight situations. Its suspension was revised last year for improved handling. Body and suspension mounts were made more rigid, and the rear stabilizer bar was made larger. The front springs have a three degree offset axis. All of this improved handling and provided a more direct feel to the steering.

The brakes work very well and are easy to modulate for accurate stops. Ventilated discs are used in front with drums in the rear; ABS and electronic brake force distribution (EBD) are standard equipment. ABS allows the driver to brake and steer at the same time for better control in a panic-braking situation, while EBD reduces stopping distances by transferring braking forces to the tires with the most weight on them.