New-age MPV launched in Japan

It was revealed at last October’s Tokyo motor show, but Mazda has now launched its all-new MPV in Japan.

Will we see it here? It’s possible, although the MPV has been, at best, a niche seller for Mazda Australia. The bulk of the local full-size people-mover market is accounted for by the bargain-priced Kia Carnival and Toyota’s Tarago, which itself is about to be replaced by an all-new model.

Unlike the outgoing V6-powered MPV, the latest iteration is propelled by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine -- specifically, a variation of the 2.3-litre DISI unit that nestles under the bonnet of the stonking 6 MPS.

Mated to an Activematic six-speed auto, and tuned to suit the MPV’s job description, the turbo four is claimed to deliver more torque than the superseded model’s 3.0-litre V6. It’s also said to improve fuel consumption.

Complementing the drivetrain is a suspension set-up that features struts at the front and a multi-link arrangement at the rear. This allegedly provides better ride and handling than its forerunner, which used a rudimentary torsion beam axle at the rear.

The wheelbase is a relatively lengthy 2950mm, which suggests the three rows of occupants should enjoy a decent amount of legroom. Ingress/egress for the two rear rows is provided by 785mm-wide sliding doors.

The second-row seats have a seat cushion tilt mechanism; a longitudinally adjustable ottoman and a large head restraint with a swing function. The third-row seats can be folded forward or split 60:40 to boost storage space. There’s also a large under-trunk that provides added stowage, regardless of the seat arrangements.

Japan-spec models are offered with Mazda ‘Precrash Safety System’, a high-tech collision prediction system that prepares the cabin for an impending crash. There’s also an Adaptive Front Lighting System that swivels the headlights to see around corners.