THE NEW Mazda MPV is a vehicle with more pros than cons.
I liked it because from a certain angle it appears sporty - yet, in the main, it also looks like a minibus.
It gets a big thumbs-up because it's exciting and versatile to drive, yet economical.
I was less impressed however, with the restricted view through the rear window - thanks to the raised seat headrests.
But I did like the understated, roomy interior and well laid-out dashboard, though my favourite aspect of the diesel MPV is that it is remarkable fun to drive.
I say remarkable because firstly it's a huge vehicle, and secondly it's diesel-powered - two features that could have made it lumbering rather than agile.
The all-new MZR-CD common rail diesel engine produces 136PS and is capable of pushing this big car from rest to 62mph in a little over 13 seconds. It has a top speed of 109mph. Not great stats, I know, but they don't tell the full story.
After a few miles you realise that there's more to this five-speed manual MPV than meets the eye. Acceleration and pulling power are both good and handling is agile.
Many times I was left impressed with just how well the Mazda held its own while taking bends and how responsive the steering was. More sporty saloon than people carrier.
The Mazda MPV was originally introduced in 1999, and the new MPV has a number of changes, not least the diesel engine. Externally, there are restyled and fuller bumpers, new headlamps and grille, and new-style alloy wheels. In some ways it looks okay, in others it doesn't.
Chassis improvements include suspension modifications, more powerful brakes and a stiffer body.
The MPV is a very versatile vehicle. With all the seats fitted it can carry seven adults, while twin sliding doors allow easy entry and exit for rear-seat passengers. Five seats from the second and third rows can be removed to provide 2,745 litres of load-lugging capacity.
The interior is very roomy with driver and passengers getting plenty of headroom and legroom - plus a variety of storage locations for bits and bobs such as sunglasses, drinks and toys.
The inside features dark grey upholstery and a carbon fibre-look instrument panel - a combination that works well.
In terms of equipment the MPV has four airbags, ABS with Electronic Brake-Force distribution, air-conditioning with independent front and rear controls, roof rails, electric windows and electric glass sunroof, CD player and heated wing mirrors.
In the MPV sector, there's a lot of competition around, but if your budget can stretch to £20,000, then the diesel Mazda MPV certainly has a lot going for it.
FAST FACTS
Mazda MPV 2.0 Diesel
Price: £19,995
Mechanical: 136PS, 1998cc, four cylinder common rail diesel engine, driving front wheels via 5spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 109mph
0-62mph: 13.2
Combined mpg: 39.8
Insurance group: 11E
CO2 emissions: 188g/km
BiK rating: 22%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles; 6yrs anti-rust; 3yrs paint