Mazda 626 LX

I've only had the Mazda 2003 MPV LX van for a week now, but I owned three Chrysler vans, going back to 1985, and did more research, test drives and informed consideration on this vehicle than on any of the eight new vehicles I've purchased in my lifetime.

I was born and raised in a chrysler home, and have almost always had chrysler products. When I bought my first voyager in 85 (2.6L Mitsu 4), Chrysler was the only game in town. Mazda has always been the mfg that waited before jumping in and then hit a home run with the definitive example of a "mature" technology; I ordered a 626 before they were introduced in 1979, when everyone was paying $2,000 mark ups on Accords. This is an amazing vehicle! My ten-year old keeps saying "dad, this car rocks!!" it has one of the biggest anti-sway bars I've ever seen, and the 5-speed automatic is aggressive. I stepped up from the 140hp mitsubishi v-6, which I always admired for a peaky, free-revving character (as opposed to the chrysler 3.3 ltr). this one is all that and more! the 4-valve head rushes on just as quickly, but stays on the buzz longer; it's fun watching the tach bounce up close to red line through each of the five gears. the stiff suspension, in concert with the Dunlop radials makes this thing really, really hug the road. and the seats are amazing. my driver's seat has three different adjustments, and it's very comfortable for long rides. It could be a little more dished in to match the performance attitude, but HEY this is a minivan!!! MY DOG LOVES THE REAR POWER WINDOW. the middle sliding seat is brilliant, and the back seat is an excellent play on Honda's great idea. I got the 6-CD changer. I also got it $200 over invoice, and an additional $2,000 mazda discount. total price 20,800!!!!! long may you run.......