Review: Mazda LW MPV (1999-06)

Review: Mazda LW.I MPV (1999-02)

Overview

Released in August 1999, the Mazda LW Series I (LW.I) MPV was a seven-seat people mover. Manufactured in Hiroshima, Japan, the front-wheel drive MPV was powered by a 2.5-litre V6 petrol engine that was mated to a four-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

The 2.5-litre GY-DE V6 petrol engine had double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, a variable length intake manifold (Mazda’s Variable Inertia Charging system, or VICS) and a compression ratio of 9.7:1.

Dimensions and suspension

Compared to its LV predecessor, the LW MPV was 90 mm longer (at 4750 mm), 4 mm wider (1830 mm), 5 mm lower (1745 mm) and had a 35 mm longer wheelbase (2840 mm); kerb weight was 1663 kg. Furthermore, the LW MPV had MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear axle.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment included dual front airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

Features

Standard features included 15-inch alloy wheels, a four speaker sound system with CD player, dual zone air conditioning, air conditioning, cruise control, velour upholstery, height adjustable driver’s seat, 12 volt power outlet, remote central locking, power windows and mirrors, tinted windows, a trip computer and an immobiliser.

2001 Mazda MPV Traveller

In August 2001, a limited-run Traveller variant was released; compared to the standard MPV, the Traveller added a six-stack CD player, sunroof, front fog lights, roof rails, floor mats and rear spoiler.

Review: Mazda LW.II MPV (2002-03)

Overview

Released in June 2002, the Mazda LW Series II (LW.II) MPV was powered by a 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine which was mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. Other changes included upgraded brakes and retuned suspension, while front suspension rigidity increased by 40 per cent through enlarged gussets on the transverse arms and stiffer cross members.

Manufactured by Ford, the 3.0-litre ‘MZI’ (or Duratec 30) V6 petrol engine had an aluminium alloy cylinder block and head, cast iron cylinder liners, sequential fuel injection, double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, an Intake Manifold Runner Control System (variable length intake tract) and a compression ratio of 10.0:1.

Visually, the LW.II MPV could be identified by its new grille, front bumper, headlights and taillights. Inside, the LW.II MPV received improved suede-like upholstery, a flat-folding table between the front seats and ISOFIX child seat anchor points.

Features

With the LW.II update, standard features were extended to include 16 inch five-spoke alloy wheels, an upgraded Mazda modular sound system, steering wheel audio controls, front fog lights and roof rails.

Review: Mazda LW.III MPV (2003-06)

Overview

Released in November 2003, the LW Series III (LW.III) MPV introduced additional safety equipment and more features. Visually, the LW.III MPV could be identified by its revised bonnet, grille, guards and front bumper. Inside, there was darker grey velour trim, new headlining, chrome-ringed instrument dials and ‘carbon-look’ paneling for the dashboard and doors.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment was upgraded to include front seat-mounted side airbags (with chest, head and neck protection); the rear brakes were also upgraded to ventilated discs (previously drums).

Features

Standard features for the Mazda LW.III MPV were extended to include a six-stack CD player, leather-wrapped steering wheel with illuminated audio and cruise control switches and deadlock function for the remote central locking system.

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: Mazda LW MPV