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2005 Mazda MPV Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Rating: 4.20
Based on 12 Owner Reviews â–¶
Simon A | March 31, 2025
The 2005 Mazda MPV is a minivan known for its sporty handling and relatively compact size. Part of the second generation (1999-2006), it offered a more engaging driving experience than many of its rivals. Key trims included LX, ES, and LX-SV. The 2005 MPV was praised for its car-like handling and available features. Pricing when new ranged approximately from $20,000 to $27,000.
The Good

The 2005 Mazda MPV offers a blend of practicality and fun. Its responsive handling appeals to drivers, while the spacious interior and comfortable seating cater to families. While not the most fuel-efficient, it provided a good value for its price. Reliability is generally good, making it a sensible choice for budget-conscious buyers who want a reliable minivan.

The Bad

The 2005 Mazda MPV's weaknesses include less cargo space than some competitors. Power sliding door malfunctions are common, and the automatic transmission can be prone to issues. Fuel economy is not class-leading, and some interior materials feel cheap. Rust can be a concern in regions with harsh winters, so inspect the undercarriage carefully.

2005 Mazda MPV: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options: 3.0L V6
  • Horsepower: 200 hp @ 6200 rpm
  • Fuel Economy: Approximately 17 mpg city / 24 mpg highway
  • 0-60 Times: Around 9.5 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: Up to 3,000 lbs (when properly equipped)
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • LX: Standard features include air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a CD player.
    • ES: Adds features like alloy wheels, upgraded audio system, and keyless entry.
    • LX-SV: (Sport Van) Includes sport-tuned suspension, unique styling elements, and more premium features.
  • Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
  • Transmission: 4-speed automatic
  • Seating: 7 passengers
  • Braking: Power-assisted disc brakes
  • Safety: Standard safety features include front airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), and side airbags (optional on some trims). Electronic stability control (ESC) was not standard.
  • Interior: The interior offered a relatively flexible seating arrangement, with fold-flat rear seats for increased cargo space. Materials were generally adequate but not luxurious.
  • Exterior: The MPV had a distinctive and relatively sporty exterior design for a minivan, with a sloping hood and a relatively low roofline.

2005 Mazda MPV Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2005
Make Mazda
Model MPV
Trim -
Style -
Type Sport Utility Vehicle Van
Category Cargo Van
Manufacturing Details
Made In Japan
Manufacturing City -
Dimensions
Doors -
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine 3.0 L V-6
Engine Size 3L
Engine Cylinders 6
Transmission -
Transmission Type -
Transmission Speeds -
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

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What Problems Does the 2005 Mazda MPV Have?

The 2005 Mazda MPV has several frequently reported problems. Transmission issues, particularly with the automatic transmission slipping or failing, are a common concern. Power sliding door malfunctions are also prevalent, often requiring repairs or replacements. Engine oil leaks can occur, especially as the vehicle ages. Some owners have reported issues with the air conditioning system. Rust is a long-term concern, especially in areas where road salt is used. Check the undercarriage and lower body panels for corrosion.

Recalls for the 2005 Mazda MPV have included issues related to airbags. Check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for the most up-to-date recall information based on your specific VIN.

Long-term reliability can be a concern if regular maintenance is neglected. The transmission, in particular, benefits from regular fluid changes. Keeping up with scheduled maintenance, addressing issues promptly, and rust prevention can help extend the vehicle's lifespan. Pre-purchase inspections by a qualified mechanic are highly recommended.

How long will the 2005 Mazda MPV last?

With proper maintenance, a 2005 Mazda MPV can potentially reach 200,000 miles or more. Average mileage depends heavily on driving habits and maintenance. Many well-maintained examples are still on the road after 15+ years of service. However, lack of maintenance will significantly shorten its lifespan. The transmission is a potential weak point, so regular fluid changes are crucial. Rust prevention is also essential for long-term durability, especially in colder climates. Engine oil leaks and general wear-and-tear items (brakes, suspension components) are also expected over time.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2005 Mazda MPV's tech features were relatively basic for its time. Standard features included a CD player and air conditioning. Higher trims offered features like keyless entry, upgraded audio systems, and power-adjustable seats.

Driver-assistance features were limited. It did not offer modern driver-assistance systems like lane departure warning or blind-spot monitoring.

Safety features included front airbags and anti-lock brakes (ABS). Side airbags were optional on some trims. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) was not standard.

Optional features included a sunroof, leather seats, and a DVD entertainment system for rear passengers.

Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) can vary. It's important to check the specific NHTSA ratings for the 2005 Mazda MPV for both frontal and side impact protection. Ratings generally show adequate protection for front occupants but marginal to acceptable protection in side impacts. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) may also have ratings available. Check both organizations for comprehensive safety information.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Black Mica
Carbon Gray Mica
Classic White
Desert Bronze Mica
Glacier Silver Metallic
Sunlight Silver Metallic
Interior Colors
Beige Cloth
Gray Cloth
Black Cloth

2005 Mazda MPV Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2005 Mazda MPV ranged in price from approximately $20,000 to $27,000, depending on the trim level and options. Current used market prices are significantly lower, typically ranging from $2,000 to $6,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location.

The MPV has depreciated considerably due to its age and the typical depreciation curve for minivans. Factors affecting resale value include: overall condition, maintenance history, mileage, rust, and the presence of desirable options. Well-maintained, low-mileage examples in good condition will command higher prices. Rust and mechanical issues significantly reduce resale value.

2005 Mazda MPV Cost of Ownership

Insurance costs for a 2005 Mazda MPV are typically lower than newer vehicles due to its age. Fuel costs are moderate, given its V6 engine. Maintenance can be affordable if you handle basic tasks, but potential transmission and power sliding door repairs can be costly. Long-term ownership costs can be moderate to high, depending on the vehicle's condition and how well it's maintained. Overall, it's not the most economical vehicle to own, primarily due to potential repairs.

2005 Mazda MPV Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage -
Highway Mileage -

2005 Mazda MPV Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Side Overall Star Rating Not Tested
Overall Rollover Star Rating Not Tested
Combined Front Seat Rating Not Tested
Combined Rear Seat Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Side Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating Not Tested

2005 Mazda MPV Recalls & Defects

AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2018-06-15
Recall no. 18v404000
Source NHTSA
Summary Mazda North America Operations (Mazda) IS Recalling Certain 2005-2006 Mazda MPV Vehicles Sold, or Ever Registered, IN THE States OF Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, NEW Hampshire, NEW York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. ON July 9, 2019 This Recall WAS Expanded TO Include Certain 2005-2009 Rx-8 Vehicles That Were Previously Recalled Under 17v-011 BUT Have NOT YET Been Repaired. These Vehicles ARE Equipped With Certain AIR BAG Inflators Assembled AS Part OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Modules Used AS Original Equipment or Replacement Equipment. IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR Bag, These Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO Absolute Humidity and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Metal Fragments Striking THE Vehicle Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Mazda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger AIR BAG Inflator With AN Alternate Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began July 6, 2018 FOR MPV Vehicles. THE Recall Began July 9, 2019 FOR Rx-8 Vehicles. Owners MAY Contact Mazda Customer Service AT 1-800-222-5500, Option 4. Mazda's Number FOR This Recall IS 2618f. Note: With THE Addition OF THE Rx-8 Vehicles, This Recall Fully Supersedes Recall 17v-011.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2019-10-31
Recall no. 19v781000
Source NHTSA
Summary Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) IS Recalling Certain 2003-2008 Mazda6, 2004-2005 Mpv, 2004 Rx-8, and 2006-2007 Mazdaspeed6 Vehicles. These Vehicles HAD Their Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Inflators Previously Replaced Under A Prior Recall Using Inflators OF THE Same Design. THE Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO High Absolute Humidity, Temperature and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Owners ARE Advised NOT TO Drive Their Vehicles Until THE Remedy IS Performed. Mazda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger AIR BAG Inflator With AN Alternate One, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began December 3, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Mazda Customer Service AT 1-800-222-5500, Option 4. Mazda's Number FOR This Recall IS 2618f. Note: This Recall Supersedes Recalls 13v130, 14v362, 14v773 and 15v869.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2018-06-15
Recall no. 18v402000
Source NHTSA
Summary Mazda North America Operations (Mazda) IS Recalling Certain 2003-2008 Mazda6, 2006-2007 Mazdaspeed6 and 2004 MPV Vehicles Nationwide. Mazda IS Also Recalling 2005-2006 MPV Vehicles IN Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Delaware, THE District OF Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, NEW Jersey, NEW Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, THE Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and THE U.s. Virgin Islands. ON July 9, 2019 This Recall WAS Expanded TO Include Certain 2004-2011 Rx-8 Vehicles That Were Previously Recalled Under 16v-354 BUT Have NOT YET Been Repaired. These Vehicles ARE Equipped With Certain AIR BAG Inflators Assembled AS Part OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Modules, and Used AS Original Equipment or Replacement Equipment. IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR Bag, These Passenger AIR BAG Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO Absolute Humidity and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Owners ARE Advised NOT TO Drive Their Vehicles Until THE Remedy IS Performed. Mazda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger AIR BAG Inflator With AN Alternate Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began July 6, 2018. Mailing TO THE Affected Rx-8 Owners Began July 6, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Mazda Customer Service AT 1-800-222-5500, Option 4. Mazda's Number FOR This Recall IS 2618f. Note: With THE Addition OF THE Rx-8 Vehicles, This Recall Fully Supersedes Recall 16v354.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2005 Mazda MPV Insurance

Insurance for a 2005 Mazda MPV is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sport Utility Vehicle Van with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2005 Mazda MPV Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle Van?

The 2005 Mazda MPV competed against minivans like the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Chrysler Town & Country, and Dodge Caravan. Compared to the Odyssey and Sienna, the MPV offered a sportier driving experience but lagged behind in terms of overall reliability and refinement. The Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Caravan offered more features for the price but generally had lower reliability ratings.

In terms of price, the MPV was often more affordable than the Odyssey and Sienna, making it a good value proposition. However, the cost of potential repairs could offset the initial savings. The MPV's fuel economy was generally comparable to its rivals.

Alternatives to the 2005 Mazda MPV include: the Toyota Sienna (for superior reliability), the Honda Odyssey (for a balanced blend of features and reliability), or a newer minivan model if budget allows. For those prioritizing sporty handling and a smaller size, the MPV could still be a worthwhile option, but be prepared for potential maintenance costs. Carefully inspect any potential purchase.

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436 2005 Mazda MPV (4.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2005 Mazda MPV a Good Sport Utility Vehicle Van?

The 2005 Mazda MPV is ideal for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize sporty handling and don't need maximum cargo space. It's worth buying *if* you find a well-maintained example with a clean maintenance history and have it thoroughly inspected before purchase. Look for examples with minimal rust and documented transmission servicing. The ES or LX-SV trims offer a good balance of features. Given its age, buying one today is only recommended if you're prepared for potential repairs and maintenance. Don't overpay, as newer minivans offer more features and better reliability.

2005 Mazda MPV Owner Reviews

4.20
Consumer Rating, Based on 12 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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Livingandlearning on January 8, 2018

Still going strong!

I loved this Mazda, and very grateful to have 13-strong years and counting with it! Bought it new, awesome v-6 engine, fine handling (ok, bedside the poor turning radius). Never has had any serious problems. The engine smells like she's burning oil, but it's never been low when I've checked it! Great van.

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just 4fun on November 20, 2017

Runs great

Roll down sliding door windows great for the dogs, rear heat and power everything! Has enough power to go up steepest hills around.

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family hauler on September 17, 2017

good value family van

I have owned this vehicle for about 7 years and have had a few issues with it but nothing out of the ordinary for its age. It is easier to drive than other vans because its smaller. Biggest complaint: The a/c is not that great and doesn't reach the back if you get the lower model. Overall you cant beat the value.

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Blackeyed Pete on August 19, 2017

Great Minivan

Reasonable power, along with amenities you don't find in other minivans. Second-row windows roll down, second-row seat shifts left to right and the third row folds flat into the floor.

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JAK on June 29, 2017

Hoping it would be better

I have to admit I didn't actually test drive this vehicle. We drove a long way to inspect this car, hoping it would fit our need. The engine sounded smooth. The interior was as clean as a whistle and nicely appointed. We immediately decided not to buy for one main reason. Although it's hard to see in the online photos, there is way too much surface rust on the wheel wells, doors and body panels to consider at any price. The right rocker panel trim was even screwed (or riveted) onto the car. It may be mechanically sound, but not what we wanted.

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AnnAZ on June 11, 2017

Love my MPV!

I have a 2005. It has 248,000 miles. Very few problems. I love this van. It drives like a car but all the benefits of a van. I love that the middle windows go up and down. Back row of seats is not that comfortable but front and middle seats are very comfortable. The only complaint is that it does not have a lot of power so merging on the highway and going up hills is not great but otherwise love this van. Am just now looking to replace because the transmission (original) is starting to go. I would buy another one if they had them.

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Mom of 3 on April 22, 2014

I will own it until it dies...

I bought this 2005 Mazda MPV in March of 2005 and have driven it since. Very low maintenance. My only complaint is the continuously running fan, which I think was recalled on earlier models. Still the most reliable vehicle I have ever owned.

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Mazda fan on August 8, 2012

I love my MPV

The most trouble free new car/van I've owned. We enjoy the maneuverability, good mileage, just the right size for our retirement travels.

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MPV = Mom's Personal Vehicle on March 20, 2012

Wish they would bring it back!

I drove my 2000 Mazda MPV with the seating for seven for 11 years. I loved that car, and it had over 157,000 miles on it; and was so disappointed that Mazda changed the car after 2006! So I spent months looking for a low mileage 2005 or 2006 MPV. Finally found one and although it's not perfect (it came with a few problems and a few minor rust spots and a few dings that I don't think were there when we took it out for our "test drive"), I'm so happy to have another MPV! I sure do wish Mazda would go back to making this seven seater model again - it's a "mini size mini-van"!

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MPV Owner on September 22, 2008

A great vehicle at a great price!

We purchased our 2005 Mazda MPV LX in November of 2005 and have not had any problems. It takes regular gas and can haul 7 people - plus it gets 25 MPG on the highway. A good looking, functional vehicle that doesn't damage the pocketbook...

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Simon A

Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.