But enough about my troubled youth, let's take the MPV GT for a spin. The simple act of climbing aboard imparts a sense of solace and relaxation. For me, the driving

The GT version of the MPV is fitted with Mazda's 200-hp 3.0-L DOHC 24-valve V6. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

position is perfect and I found the MPV's low belt line appealing. All gauges and switchgear are logically placed and intuitive to operate once acclimatized to the environment. Starting the MPV GT brought Mazda's well-bred 3.0-L DOHC 24-valve V6 to life. This lightweight aluminum engine produces 200 horsepower and an equal amount of torque. The smooth running engine was never in a struggle to move the 1,699 kg (3,745 lb) MPV, but rather made quick work of both highway passes and mountain passes. And the available

The 5-speed automatic MPV transmission benefits from an electronic program that Mazda refers to as "hill-climbing control." (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

electronic traction control system kept wheel-spin in-check throughout these accelerated undertakings. Backing the MPV's V6 is a 5-speed electronically controlled transmission, a technology that is par for course for imported minivans but nonexistent for all domestics that still use 4-speed autoboxes. The MVP's extra gear contributes to improved fuel efficiency and better acceleration through its front wheel drive setup.

In addition to the extra cog, the MPV transmission benefits from an electronic program that Mazda refers to as "hill-climbing control." This program minimizes the frequency of gearshifts that can accompany a run through hilly terrain. Without it, a 5-speed transmission may tend to up and downshift more than necessary. The MPV autobox also features an overdrive function for miserly highway fuel consumption.