My test vehicle was finished in the Tsunami Blue Mica - which is a baroque method of saying medium blue. But however Mazda chooses to describe this sensational color is fine with me because I've never seen a tsunami and not being a miner, I have little familiarity with mica.

The new MPV's exterior conveys a more aggressive, road-hugging image. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

Overall the exterior of the new MPV conveys a more aggressive, road-hugging image thanks to the availability of the tasteful, subtle, body skirting. The metal trimmed skirting picks up on the boldness of the front-fascia and carries the design theme down both sides of the vehicle, eventually blending-in with the rear bumpers. This small element effectively transforms the weak one-box minivan body shape into one that is edgier, better defined and more esthetically pleasing. The clear lens head and tail lamps complete the "GT" Euro-look, pushing the design envelope upscale.

The gray leather-clad cabin of my test MPV was enticing and extraordinarily comfortable. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

After being pleasantly surprised by the sporty exterior styling of the MPV GT, I was curious to take a look inside. Fortunately it didn't disappoint. Like the van's exterior, the interior only visited the day-surgeon for a nip-and-tuck here and there - not a complete reconstruction. The gray leather-clad cabin of my test MPV was enticing and extraordinarily comfortable. Also, it nicely matched the tsunami blue mica exterior. The seating position feels high, thanks in part to the large window openings, which conveyed the sense that I was as much outside the vehicle as inside. This proved great for visibility, especially when parking in confined spaces.

In keeping with the sporty GT theme, the dash panel and surrounding door trim receives a carbon-fiber-like finish that felt durable and projected a racy attitude. The front captain's seats are wonderfully comfortable and highly supportive. These featured armrests, lumbar-support and power adjustments. Oddly though, they were not heated as so many of the premium seats in minivans now are. This is unfortunate for those residing in areas where ice hockey is played outdoors. Oh well, I guess hot chocolate and warm blankets will have to substitute for a warm tush.