THERE was a time when all an MPV had to do to qualify for the fancy acronym was accommodate seven onboard.

That time has passed, along with 9-to-5 jobs, comprehensive dental plans and free-flowing expressways.

Today, a people mover (now, that's a term you don't hear anymore) has to look chic, be well-equipped and offer commendable all-round performance. On top of accommodating a brood. And, preferably, cheap and good at the same time too.

Pretty much the standards for a woman (or, for that matter, a man) these days. You could say the MPV is art (of car-making) imitating life.

Which brings us to today's topic. Mazda once had a big MPV, which was imaginatively named Mazda MPV. Endowed with a shape that only a carton maker could love, it bombed.

Then, in 2005, it launched the Mazda5, a seven-seater sometimes mixed up with the Mazda CX-7, a five-seater.

The Mazda5 was a success, largely because it was the only sporty-looking compact MPV available from an authorised agent. But it wasn't a huge success, largely because it was relatively pricey (nearly $88,000 at launch).

Enter the improved Mazda5, stacked with substance to go with the style, aptitude to go with the attitude.

For starters, twin motorised sliding doors. Now, which MPV buyer doesn't appreciate auto sliders, especially when they come with remote activation and pressure sensors (so as to preserve young limbs and digits)?

All it needs now is an auto tailgate to complete the accessibility package.

The revised Mazda5 has a rear air-con blower too. Not a biggie, really. It is a floor-mounted two-speed affair, versus the pillar-mounted types which are more effective and space efficient.

The car's engine is now equipped with variable valve-timing and an electric throttle, which improves output and economy. This is mated to an exceptionally smooth five-speed autobox (four-speed previously) with quick shift.

While the final drive of the new gearbox is lower (for more relaxed and frugal cruising), its other ratios are steeper.

Hence, although the car is a shade slower in hitting the century mark and has a slightly lower top speed, pick-up in city traffic is swifter.

Mind you, the car is 32kg heavier because of its additional features.

The original Mazda5 was a bit truck-like in its ride and movement. But the revamped version is better sorted, with a chassis that is both well controlled and comfy.

In all, the new Mazda5 is now a much better car. But it still can do with further improvements, like easier access to the third row, more stowage in front, stronger brakes and better-sounding reverse beepers.

Notes for the all-new model, then.

MAZDA5
Price: $83,988 with COE
Engine: 1,999cc 16-valve inline-4
Gearbox: Five-speed automatic with quick shift
Maximum power: 145bhp at 6,500rpm
Maximum torque: 182Nm at 4,500rpm
0-100kmh: 11.9 seconds
Top speed: 179kmh
Fuel consumption: 8.8 litres/ 100km (city-highway)
Agent: Mazda Singapore

This story was first published in The Straits Times on Mar 1, 2008.