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2006
Mazda MPV

Starts at:
$22,115
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New 2006 Mazda MPV
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Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • 4dr LX-SV
    Starts at
    $22,115
    18 City / 25 Hwy
    MPG
    7
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr LX
    Starts at
    $22,950
    18 City / 25 Hwy
    MPG
    7
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr ES
    Starts at
    $28,515
    18 City / 25 Hwy
    MPG
    7
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

Photo & video gallery

2006 Mazda MPV 2006 Mazda MPV 2006 Mazda MPV 2006 Mazda MPV 2006 Mazda MPV 2006 Mazda MPV 2006 Mazda MPV 2006 Mazda MPV 2006 Mazda MPV 2006 Mazda MPV 2006 Mazda MPV 2006 Mazda MPV 2006 Mazda MPV 2006 Mazda MPV 2006 Mazda MPV 2006 Mazda MPV

Notable features

200-hp, 3.0-liter V-6
Five-speed automatic
Available side-impact airbags
Manageable size
Roll-down second-row windows

The good & the bad

The good

Maneuverability
Steering response
Ride comfort
Seat comfort and support
Compact dimensions

The bad

Occasional engine noise
Less interior space than most rivals

Expert 2006 Mazda MPV review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By Cars.com editors
Full article
our expert's take

Vehicle Overview
One of the smallest minivans on the market, the front-wheel-drive Mazda MPV features roll-down windows in its sliding doors. Minor revisions, including a newly standard retractable key, took place for 2005. Rear air conditioning became optional in the LX and standard in the ES.

Except for body color choices, nothing has changed for the 2006 model year. Interior and exterior styling was revised for the 2004 model year. The headlights, grille, hood, bumpers and side skirts were new. All four captain’s chairs got new ergonomically shaped headrests, the driver’s seat gained lumbar support, sun-visor extensions were installed, “smart” front airbags were added, and the ES got a six-CD changer.

The MPV’s five-speed-automatic transmission incorporates Slope Control, which stays in fourth gear to avoid unnecessary shifts while climbing. Mazda claims the MPV weighs less than its competitors and that its “trimmer exterior” yields more responsive handling and easier parking. Analysts have noted that the MPV’s smaller-than-normal dimensions may account for its modest popularity.

Exterior
Mazda’s minivan is significantly shorter than most minivan competitors. Riding a 111.8-inch wheelbase, it stretches to 189.5 inches long overall, which is roughly the same length as a regular-size Dodge Caravan. A power moonroof is optional.

Seventeen-inch alloy wheels go on the ES model, while the LX gets standard 16-inch wheels. The performance-oriented suspension is supposed to reduce body lean without negatively affecting ride comfort.

Interior
The MPV provides seating for up to seven occupants, with captain’s chairs in the front and middle rows. The second row’s “Side-by-Slide” bucket seats not only slide fore and aft but also together, to create the equivalent of a bench. The “Tumble Under” third-row seat folds completely into the floor. Maximum cargo volume is 17.2 cubic feet behind the third-row seat or 54.6 cubic feet with the third-row seat folded down.

Dual sliding side doors are standard, and power operation is optional. The windows in both sliding doors can be lowered — a feature not available in many minivans.

Standard equipment includes front air conditioning, remote keyless entry, cruise control and a CD player. The ES adds rear air conditioning, leather-trimmed seats and an eight-way power driver’s seat. Backseat DVD video entertainment is optional.

Under the Hood
The MPV’s 200-horsepower, 3.0-liter V-6 teams with a five-speed-automatic transmission.

Safety
Antilock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution are standard. Side-impact airbags and traction control are standard in the ES. The front seat belts include pretensioners.

Driving Impressions
Compactness isn’t necessarily a drawback on the road; agile handling is the MPV’s foremost virtue. In fact, this minivan whips through curves almost like a capable sedan, and it remains impressively flat. Top-notch steering response is precise and confident. Ride comfort is especially good and exceptionally well controlled. Mazda’s minivan does slow down appreciably on steep upgrades, but engine noise is modest. The automatic transmission tries hard and reacts promptly. More oomph is evident on gradual inclines, but the MPV doesn’t feel power-packed.

Though the MPV is quiet overall, you can hear road noise and some engine growl when it’s pushed hard. Wind noise can also get bothersome. The seats feature comfortable cushioning and good support.

2006 Mazda MPV review: Our expert's take

Vehicle Overview
One of the smallest minivans on the market, the front-wheel-drive Mazda MPV features roll-down windows in its sliding doors. Minor revisions, including a newly standard retractable key, took place for 2005. Rear air conditioning became optional in the LX and standard in the ES.

Except for body color choices, nothing has changed for the 2006 model year. Interior and exterior styling was revised for the 2004 model year. The headlights, grille, hood, bumpers and side skirts were new. All four captain’s chairs got new ergonomically shaped headrests, the driver’s seat gained lumbar support, sun-visor extensions were installed, “smart” front airbags were added, and the ES got a six-CD changer.

The MPV’s five-speed-automatic transmission incorporates Slope Control, which stays in fourth gear to avoid unnecessary shifts while climbing. Mazda claims the MPV weighs less than its competitors and that its “trimmer exterior” yields more responsive handling and easier parking. Analysts have noted that the MPV’s smaller-than-normal dimensions may account for its modest popularity.

Exterior
Mazda’s minivan is significantly shorter than most minivan competitors. Riding a 111.8-inch wheelbase, it stretches to 189.5 inches long overall, which is roughly the same length as a regular-size Dodge Caravan. A power moonroof is optional.

Seventeen-inch alloy wheels go on the ES model, while the LX gets standard 16-inch wheels. The performance-oriented suspension is supposed to reduce body lean without negatively affecting ride comfort.

Interior
The MPV provides seating for up to seven occupants, with captain’s chairs in the front and middle rows. The second row’s “Side-by-Slide” bucket seats not only slide fore and aft but also together, to create the equivalent of a bench. The “Tumble Under” third-row seat folds completely into the floor. Maximum cargo volume is 17.2 cubic feet behind the third-row seat or 54.6 cubic feet with the third-row seat folded down.

Dual sliding side doors are standard, and power operation is optional. The windows in both sliding doors can be lowered — a feature not available in many minivans.

Standard equipment includes front air conditioning, remote keyless entry, cruise control and a CD player. The ES adds rear air conditioning, leather-trimmed seats and an eight-way power driver’s seat. Backseat DVD video entertainment is optional.

Under the Hood
The MPV’s 200-horsepower, 3.0-liter V-6 teams with a five-speed-automatic transmission.

Safety
Antilock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution are standard. Side-impact airbags and traction control are standard in the ES. The front seat belts include pretensioners.

Driving Impressions
Compactness isn’t necessarily a drawback on the road; agile handling is the MPV’s foremost virtue. In fact, this minivan whips through curves almost like a capable sedan, and it remains impressively flat. Top-notch steering response is precise and confident. Ride comfort is especially good and exceptionally well controlled. Mazda’s minivan does slow down appreciably on steep upgrades, but engine noise is modest. The automatic transmission tries hard and reacts promptly. More oomph is evident on gradual inclines, but the MPV doesn’t feel power-packed.

Though the MPV is quiet overall, you can hear road noise and some engine growl when it’s pushed hard. Wind noise can also get bothersome. The seats feature comfortable cushioning and good support.

Factory warranties

Basic
4 years / 50,000 miles
Corrosion
5 years
Powertrain
4 years / 50,000 miles
Roadside Assistance
4 years / 50,000 miles

Consumer reviews

4.1 / 5
Based on 14 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 4.4
Interior 3.7
Performance 4.0
Value 4.4
Exterior 4.3
Reliability 4.0

Most recent

  • Is a great mini van,bought it in 2015 with 75000 m

    Is a great mini van,bought it in 2015 with 75000 miles on it, it has 126000 now, still running like new, engine and transmission are very strong, repalced coils,plugs,front breaks, paid for parts $230, labor $175, very happy with it.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    6 people out of 6 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • 400k factory motor and transmission still strong

    I love it never had a problem just not many aftermarket parts available. But I've made my own. My van has almost 400k miles and has never let me down has always been a great vehicle and the kids love it.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Mysterious Misfires

    122,299 mi. Mazda, Rally & Pep Boys said everything is fine, plugs, coils and wires. It passed the smog control in less than a minute. I have a FIXD on the car. It said #2 Cylinder is misfiring. Engine Code P0302. But none of the major garages agree. Today FIXD flashed a red alert that it needs to be calibrated. Then it went away.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 2.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 3.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    3 people out of 4 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Perfect car for our needs

    We bought this car last week after an exhausting car hunt to replace my wife's former Toyota Sienna. Our 2006 MPV isTh a low mileage model only 77K in great condition inside and out for a vehicle that is now 12 years old. The MPV caught our attention not only for the price and mileage, but also that being smaller than the Sienna it was a better fit for our family's needs. No car is absolutely perfect and the gear selector on the driving column will take a little getting used to. But everything else on the car functions as it should, down to every light.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Great family van

    Mazda MPV van has been a great family van. I have driven mine for over 100,000 miles with no problems. Would recommend this van. Looks great too.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • 3rd mazda i have own, first mazda van

    Have had the van for 1 week and so far I love it. My last van was a toyota which I loved the mazda is just as awesome with comfort and room.!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 4.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Great family or work vehicle

    I got this last year from my parents who bought it New and they never had any problems and neither have I. My mom used to deliver medicine all over central Florida and put 200k miles doing that and it never failed her. The cargo option was excellent for that line of work. Maintenance was always done on time so that was important in making sure it ran right. It's been good to my family all these years and still runs strong and the a/c still works very well, which is very important in South Florida! This is a great vehicle to take the family out on the weekends or for road trips as well as to transport anything from an upright piano to a large grill, both of which I carried in it. And if you put a hitch on it you can haul even more and it will take it. The engine is more than enough for it. Great van!
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • don't buy this car ever

    the transmission will fail for sure, it starts with slipping gears and then fail completely. cost around $3000. very poor mpg the engine is not bad Avoid this car
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 1.0
    Performance 2.0
    Value 1.0
    Exterior 2.0
    Reliability 1.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Good Used Car Value

    I had a specific reason for choosing the Mazda MPV: I was looking for the car with the largest interior space I could get that would still fit in my 1926-built garage. Minivans like the Odyssey and the Sienna won't fit, they are too long and wide. I want the space and usefulness of a minivan, but I also want to put the car in the garage so I don't have to burn up or scrape off snow and ice. The MPV meets the bill on usefulness although it doesn't have as much space as my old Toyota Previa. But then, none of the newer minivans are that spacious in that small a package anymore, new design standards seem to have eliminated size-for-space. The MPV is a fairly utilitarian car, which I appreciate, as I have no compunction about dumping dogs and storage boxes in it. The dogs like the car, as the sliding seat in the middle makes a bench for the aging collie and allows easy access to the back area for the others. A few sheets thrown over the seats help to preserve the cloth seats, which are firm and comfortable. I like having bucket seats/captain's chairs in the middle row. The back row is a bench that folds into the floor, and gives you a nice-sized cargo area, my most desired feature. Engines and power are not my thing, I just need the car to go and be reliable. Haven't had any complaints in that department. The only mechanical thing I've noticed is that the car is slow to respond when you accelerate, so you have to learn to work with that when getting on a short highway ramp. I like the dashboard layout and the storage bins and their locations. I especially appreciate having space on the floor for bags next to the driver's seat, being not at all fond of the design trend that fills up the space between driver and front passenger with bins, none of them big enough to put a purse in. The MPV doesn't feel as spacious as my old Previa, but it feels more spacious than many other models I considered, like the first-round Highlander and the Hyundai Santa Fe. All in all, I think this will be a car I will keep and enjoy for a while.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 3.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Very reliable, useful and pleasing style

    This is our second MPV. The first one was a 2003 ES(leather seats). We liked our first one so much that when it was totalled by a friend who borrowed it, we looked for and found a used 2006 with only 17,000 miles and a year old. This one has been even more reliable than the first one! Performs like a sports car and carries 7 passengers and a lot of cargo. The styling is very pleasing as opposed to the majority of vehicles made these days which copy the same futuristic style.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Best minivan iv owned

    By far is easier to drive and is alot more comfortable than others i have owned. My business uses minivans for transportation and i want to buy more Mazdas after buying one for my wife. The roll down windows in the back are awesome!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 4.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • audi a3

    I have had the Mpv for 6 years, and it sucks. It broke down and the manafold cracked, which would have cost$750 to replace. My opinion:get a Chrysler Pacifica.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 3.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 1.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 2.0
    Reliability 2.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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Mazda dealers near you

FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 2006 Mazda MPV?

The 2006 Mazda MPV is available in 3 trim levels:

  • ES (1 style)
  • LX (1 style)
  • LX-SV (1 style)

What is the MPG of the 2006 Mazda MPV?

The 2006 Mazda MPV offers up to 18 MPG in city driving and 25 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

Is the 2006 Mazda MPV reliable?

The 2006 Mazda MPV has an average reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 2006 Mazda MPV owners.

Is the 2006 Mazda MPV a good Minivan?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 2006 Mazda MPV. 71.4% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

4.1 / 5
Based on 14 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.4
  • Interior: 3.7
  • Performance: 4.0
  • Value: 4.4
  • Exterior: 4.3
  • Reliability: 4.0
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