I've driven the Las Vegas - Southern California route twice now. As you may know it has 9-mile or more hills of 2-3000 feet climbs. Without bothering to take the MPV out of overdrive I've been able to maintain 70 mph on the hills with no problem.
We've driven to Southern California through Barstow twice also. Those are some big hills! It will maintain it's speed by downshifting especially if you have the cruise on. The high RPM does bother me a little. I've had better luck with the cruise off and lightly pressing the gas more as we go up the hill. This keeps the RPM's and engine noise lower. I didn't use the O/D off button much either. Our next two trips are through the Colorado mountains. We'll see how that goes!
I absolutely love the roof rack! Being in scouts/BMX/Soccer & basketball gives us the option of loading the van up! Recently, I loaded a 24' extention ladder on it. Couldn't have done the inside of the house without it. It is just another one of those options I am very happy to have.
Hi there. For what it's worth I picked up our MPV 2 weeks ago, drove off the lot and headed into the Rockies Mountains up here in Canada. 2 Adults, 2 Kids, Lotsa stuff....No Problem. Occasionally the engine would kick into a little bit of gear searching (on REALLY long climbs) but to be honest, you really had to pay attention to feel it as it does it SO smoothly, left it in overdrive and easily maintained a speed of about 120Km (I think that's about 70Mph). As far as mileage, first trip of Highway driving 23.76Mpg. Since I've been back in the city about 21.5Mpg. This van is by far the best vehicle I've purchased, wife and kids LOVE it.
I LOVE MY MPVVVVVV (Dire Straights Money for Nothing tone
Hello, I purchased my MPV ES on 6/15/00 in Marlow Heights, MD with all of the same options you stated minus the cargo net, but I got the entertainment system. All for $25,832. I am happy with my deal. Are you getting a good/great deal? From everything I have read, $100 - $200 above invoice is a good deal. Good luck!
You got the sunroof with the entertainment set? I didn't think that was available now I am jealous! But then I figure I got $2k more for my trade so I think my savings was in the trade amount.
My ES has
Rear Air Roof Rack Sunroof 6 Cd changer all the mats and the nets & mudguards
Paid $25390
Traded a 95 Olds 88 Other dealers would give $4000 but I got $6000. So I bought low sold high. No complaints. Plus that was when there was no $1k rebate!
Coupon has been published every weekend for last few weeks in Washington Post, in Mazda MPV ad rather than individual dealer ad. Good for "$500 Cash Back on a new 2000 Mazda MPV equipped with a factory-installed Rear Seat Entertainment System. Just present this ticket to your Mazda dealer." Good for delivery through 9/5/00. I imagine most major papers would have this coupon in their car ads. If not, have you checked with a dealer. If the entire $500 is coming from Mazda, rather than from their own pockets, they may have coupons to give away.
My local dealer won't budge on demanding 10% deposit before he will look for an MPV LX. He has had only one on the lot for at least a month and it stickers at over 25k, invoice about 22.8k. He wouldn't even consider selling at invoice and that's more than I can spend anyway.
So I have found 3 dealers within 100 miles who will sell the LX at invoice and waive the 480 delivery charge. This indicates to me a 520 profit considering the 1k from Mazda to the dealer. I am satisfied with this. I know I could do better in a large city or in NE US where they have a customer rebate but I live in Iowa.
I'm leaning toward the emerald green with 1X security, roof rack, 3 in 1, 4 seasons package that works out to 21801. There also is a blue one that is similar w/o roof rack. It doesn't stay hot long enough around here for rear a/c.
My one question is the poor rating from Edmunds on the 5 year value. My insurance rates are much lower than the example, and using my 92 Caravan as a guide I don't possibly expect to spend 2500 on maintenance. I have spent about half that in 8 years and followed the owner's manual faithfully, including such things as transmission and radiator service every 2 years. The Dodge has 113k and doesn't use oil, should last several more years.
I appreciate this forum and all the great information available on line.
To all that responded. Thanks for the info. I think I have enough info to get the hubby to try it again. We drove it on hills so steep and curvy you stay below 25 mph and it's hard to climb a large grade from almost a stand-still. I'll try it on the real road if I can get the dealer out there.
"This feature makes it possible to automatically skip intervals between songs if the interval is 15 seconds long or longer.
Press the blank skip button to set the blank skip ("BS" will be displayed).
Press the blank skip button once again to cancel the blank skip function."
When we purchased our MPV our dealer gave us a separate leaflet that covers all the radio controls. The leaflet is called "MPV Owner's Manual Leaflet" (how appropriate!) and there is a number on the bottom left corner "L041-00B" It is white and is 23 pages long. If you can't get one I can mail you a copy if you want me to.
Today in the Houston newspaper I saw three different Mazda dealers offering Zero Down, Zero Percent Financing (in lieu of rebate) on all Mazdas, not just MPV's. It required acceptance by Mazda's finance wing (MAP - Mazda Acceptance Corporation?). This is probably a new incentive to get as many 2000's off the lot as possible. If anyone out there still hasn't bought yet, this might be something you need to ask your dealer about.
unfortunately special financing rates in Mass. ended on June 30 ,2000 . We were prepared to deal today . unfortunately the Dealer is offering 4.95 for 48 months and 6.9% for 60 months but you must add $1000 to the price in order to get the financing .I read with great interest bugaboox post # 124 posted Friday June 30,2000 . If your out there and can provide more info on this or if anyone out there can verify this then Im in a 2000 LX! Thanks for your help .
I have the entertainment system. I like it. My kids LOVE it. I like the fact the I can control the thing with the remote in the front seat - helps eliminate problems with who's turn it is to push the play button etc. Biggest plus is that the kids watch it, and thus the fighting, "are we there yet?", and whatnot and gone.
You could put something else in there, just make sure it's secure and cannot move around in the event of a sudden stop or crash.
BTW, Rosen is the OEM for Mazda on the ENT system. Should you ever need something checked out on it, you have their sources, and not just Mazda's.
Now 5 Mazda dealers in Houston are offering 0 down, 0% financing on all Mazdas. Reading the fine print, this requires approval through MAP (Mazda Acceptance Corporation?) and is good only for a 24 month term. We visited a Mazda dealer who didn't advertise and took our second test drive in an MPV. The saleslady was not aware of the new financing, but then again, she was not aware that you could get a cassette player in the MPV! In addition, I saw a TV ad for the Protege stating a $1,000 rebate good through September 5. I think they've released their new rates to dealers and advertising, and the internet sources will have them listed in a few days.
I checked Edmunds and Carpoint and they only list rebates/incentives good through June 30. They show the Protege rebate good only through then, and they show the financing rate for 24 months at 0.9%, which is what the saleslady said. I'm guessing that 0% is the new rate through September 5th, and other rates will come down by about a point as well (maybe 3.9 for 48 months, 5.9 for 60 months, etc.). I wouldn't be surprised if they kept the same rebates and incentives for another three months or even bettered them. The MPV sold 3,552 units in June, about 300 more than May, but I think that's well short of their sales goal.
We had the opportunity to test drive the Pontiac Montana on Saturday, and afterward went down the freeway to test the MPV for a second time. The Montana (short wheelbase) did have better acceleration but not THAT much better given the considerably bigger engine over the MPV. It had the same 3.4L engine as the Grand Am I rented a few weeks ago, but it certainly was not the same performance. Nature of the beast I guess. The Montana we drove was rather on the bare side, and stickered at 26,800+, which gave us a bit of sticker shock. In fact, we came home and compared Montanas with MPVs and found that, comparatively equipped, the Montanas come out $1500 more expensive. Given that plus the A/C didn't work as well (more black in the interior and no rear air), it simply didn't drive as well (mushy brakes, lots of body roll), and the Mazda has a superior warranty and better crash protection numbers, I think we've ruled the Montana out.
The problems I had with the MPV were pretty much sorted out with the second test drive. We drove a sapphire blue ES (sticker = 26,500) with a roof rack as the only option. That is the most gorgeous blue I've ever seen on any car! The MPV felt so much more tightly built than the Montana, the brakes were absolutely fantastic, and the body roll seemed minimal. I adjusted the seat all the way down and got a perfect driving position, and then adjusted the tilt wheel slightly and had no problem seeing the left 3 buttons on the radio. I did not notice any of the problems that this thread has mentioned on a consistent basis. The LX we drove last time didn't seem quite as nice a drive. Has anyone driven both and LX and ES and noticed any differences?
Has anyone noticed that the wheels on the driver's seat to change the height and tilt adjustments are VERY hard to turn? Has anyone tried to improve that, or does it get looser with time and use?
I think there's going to be an MPV in my garage soon....
Personally, I don't think they are that hard to turn. However, I usually shift my weight when doing it, so it's not like I'm lifting dead weight when doing the adjustment.
I looked pretty hard at the Montana too. Just didn't measure up to the MPV in my opinion. The MPV offers alot more for the money, IMHO. Our MPV is still "new", and I still find something I like about it daily. Didn't get my first color choice (sand), but got all the options I wanted, plus some I didn't think I would want (but now glad I got). If you see someone driving a silver MPV ES with a big SEG on their face in northern Louisana, it's probably me.
yes i already looked at the sonar backing device in our local Derand electronics store. They had 2 models available, one that beeps faster as an object gets nearer and the other one which i liked shows the exact distance on a liquid crystal display ($199 canadian). since i just had window tints and alarm installed, im waiting until my pockets refill. i just realized i should have gotten at least the LX since the difference now that i paid for the convenience package and the alarm isnt that much... plus we are still missing a lot of those other neat options (seat height adjusters and rear air foremost). but we leased in a rush due to necessity and was rather unprepared.... hopefully in a year or so we can upgrade to at least an LX. even more hopefully the dealer will be amicable to cut the lease if we purchase from them.
back to the backing devices...
we tried one of those transparent plastic magnifying lens that you stick on your rear windows. it works kinda like a peephole to your back view giving wider rear viewing angle and allows you to see objects near the rear bumper. didnt like it specially since at the level where she can see it (which is around upper center) it blocked the view of rear traffic.
on the extenders, yeah i guess you'd find those a pain since you are taller. at 5'9" i figure i can still push the seat back all the way and live with... and the mpv seats DO seem to be able to push a long way back.
cant wait for those extenders to arrive. we just drove 1900 km round trip to Cleveland Ohio last weekend to visit parents. Wife drove 1/4th of the way and would have drove longer except she was too near that airbag and her feet cramped from stretching too far. each way took around 10 to 12 hours with 3 30 min stops for the kiddo... we found the seats comfortable flat firm support but with a soft and gentle surface.
here are some of the newer things we didnt see before in the mpv:
- the inside rear lift gate handle enables wife to reach it...yeow!! i actually thought it was some useless gimmicky feature until my wife showed me why it was there. BOY WAS I EVER HAPPY! i no longer felt bad we didnt wait for that 2001 dodge caravan power lift gate (...would probably have hated it since i dont like power sliding doors that much).
- we try to keep the back seats folded until needed so she has better rear view. the side by slide seats actually helps in some instances. slide it apart when wife is in tough backing spot then slide it right back in when driving away... try THAT with the ODY or the Sienna!!!
- 4.5 yr old daughter just loves to operate that 2nd row power windows (she knows very well not to stick body parts out) and she has the best view due to those theatre seating. i actually like sitting back there with her than in front.
From the rideanddrive.com "Industry Update" for the week of June 25 through July 1, 2000, an interesting article about Mazda's future in the U.S.:
"...Meanwhile, a Japanese newspaper quoted Mazda president Mark Fields as having said the company would close up to 40 percent of its U.S. dealerships over the next three years, citing poor performance for the brand. A Mazda official in Irvine, California, commented that this was not fresh news, while the chairman of the company's national dealer council said that he had never heard the 40 percent figure mentioned. Nevertheless, there must be a kernel of truth somewhere amongst the rumors, innuendoes and vague comments."
If that is true, I guess we all have longer drives to get warranty work done. I have only one dealer in town, and the next two closest are 73 & 95 miles respectively. That would basically make the warranty on the vehicle useless for alot of us wouldn't it, or am I reading this wrong.
I don't think you're reading it wrong. Here in Houston, where there are now 9 dealers in the metro area and another 2 within 100 miles, we have the potential to lose (assuming the 40% is distributed equally across the region) four or five dealerships. That may not be a problem for us and other large metro areas who will retain a choice of dealers.
In rural regions, however, where there is less population and fewer Mazda dealers, this may spell trouble for owners who indeed might have their closest Mazda dealership closed up on them.
And just when you're thinking "well I'll just sell my Mazda if they close up the nearest dealership" consider this: if there's no convenient dealership available for warranty work or parts in your area, the market for used Mazdas in your area could dry up real fast, I would think.
After thinking about it, My dealer also sells Audi, VW, and Porsche. I think they would still keep the parts department up and running, so even if they stopped selling Mazdas I would assume they could still fix them (Meaning, they would still keep mazda parts on hand).
Wishful thinking maybe, but I would think Mazda would have to have some sort of parts/warranty shops open in their current markets to avoid lawsuits and such. Either that or pay bigtime money to tow my car 100 miles to fix it.
I just read a report where Kia will be coming out with a minivan next year. It is scheduled to have a 200hp V6 and the second row of seats will swivel around to face the third. If true, does anyone else feel that Mazda has really dropped the ball on this one? I mean, if KIA can come out with a 200hp V6 in their new, likely cheaper, minivan at about the same time Mazda finally gets around to putting a V6 of the same output in their older, more expensive one, which one are people going to buy?
Modiecast, IMHO, Mazda is probably up against the wall because Ford MoCo is the supplier of the existing 2.5 Lt and the often mentioned 3.0. Look at it this way, do you see more Taurus(s) or Contour/Mystique(s)on the road. Ford probably has more 2.5 liter engine capacity because they go into the slower selling Countour.
I spoke to the (very nice) customer service line recently (Audry) and got the same identical answer as you re. new engine. I disagree that "bugging them" at this point is going to change anything for the 2001 model year. That decision is done and over with. Production starts in a matter of weeks, and the supply chain is on notice I would expect. The number of calls coming to them earlier this year, press reviews and competitor offerings would have made the difference. Having read some excellent prior posts here, sounds like the 3.0 ltr was Mazda pick from the start, but FoMoCo was (is) unwilling to supply. If we don't see it for '01, they are digging a hole for themselves regarding future competitiveness. I will be thrilled to buy a 3.0 liter and will do so quickly, if not, will take a much harder look a short list of competitors.
By the way, Ruteger, KIA would have to make a show stopper, a real stunner of a van to be considered on the same playing field as HonToyMaz. I don't care what engine drops into it, can't see owning one. If offered, maybe the price on the phantom van will come down, nah.
I would imagine that the incentives and financing vary across the country, so I called Mazda as well. For washington state there continues to be a rebate of $1000 or special dealer financing if you qualify. Same as listed above 0% for 24 months 2.9 for 36 months 4.9 for 48 months 6.9 for 60 months There is a $1372 rebate if you get the entertainment system. You can't combine these offers, take your pick. We have been offered the rebate of $1000 and price of $300 under invoice. Sounds like a deal, but it was offered via email in response to my request for a price. They didn't have what we wanted on the lot, but found one at the port. We put a deposit on it and at that time clarified by phone that the $300 under invoice was what we wanted. Salesman agreed, but I won't believe it until we sign on the dotted line. Wish me luck,
Have you ever driven or ridden in a Kia? So far, they and Daewoo compete for the title "Yugo of the Far East" IMHO. A 200hp engine and swivel seats are not the whole story. Fit, finish, and engineering are important and Kia has a way to go.
Ruteger, if you would seriously consider a KIA to the MPV, you deserve everything in life that comes your way. I have been in and around the MPV boards since August of last year and you are the first person to even hint at such a comparison. Good luck to you. You will need it.
Glad to hear that Kia is going to build a minivan. Nice to a have manufacturer on the low end to keep the other manufacturers interested in selling a variety of trim levels for different needs. However, I, too, would agree that I can't imagine the KIA being on the same page as the HonToyMaz. For example, the Kia Sportage is an OK vehicle, but not the same caliber as the HonToy sport cutes. IMHO, the Subaru Forester is the benchmark for the sportcutes, but that is a different discussion board.
Yesterday I went to the dealer to test drive MPV and we will go ahead on that. I live in whiteplains,NY and I tried the dealer ADZAM at Bedford Hills. Tom was the sales rep. and he was very nice. But he confirmed that I can have either the mazda financing or the $1000 rebate, not both. How you guys manage to get both of them?
When I negotiated for my MPV I added the invoice price of all options to the invoice price of the van then subtracted the $1000 dealer incentive added $200 for dealer "profit" and said I wanted the special financing. Salesman presented this offer to his manager who came back and said he couldn't give me both. He countered with an offer that was $150 below my offer, and said I could have it at that price with $1000 incentive or add $1000 and get the special financing. We took the lower price offer. By not financing that extra 1000 dollars over 5 years we actually saved more than with the lower financing. Go figure.
Did you check out Middletown Mazda yet? What was Adzam's deal? Middletown took $500 off of Total Invoice and 6.9% Financing. Salesman was Bob Conway. Really nice guy, not too pushy. Once he knew I had done my homework through Edmund's and I had a list of all invoice prices, he knew I was serious about buying and was very accommodating. I first told him that I knew people were purchasing MPV for $200-$300 over dealer cost after the $1,000 dealer incentive. He and his manager said they could not go that low. They came back with $500 over and wanted to add $100 for transportation fee, which I later had waived. I then asked about the special financing for 60mos. and they said they could get me the 6.9%. Seeing how I was getting both I figured it was a good deal. I agree with modiecast, first negotiate the sales price, then talk finance, trade in, or lease. Once they commit to a price you are willing to spend, they will try to accommodate your other requests. In my case, I believe they gave me the special financing because they saw that I had spent so much time researching everything and was serious about buying that they were willing to make the deal right then and there. Mazda is definitely trying to drum up sales and make a name for itself. The salesman actually told me that because it was the end of the month they were eager to make a deal. IMHO, since it is getting closer to the arrival of 2001 models, you should be able to get a great deal. I have not heard of any special rebates regarding the entertainment system here in NY. Then again, I am not looking at the car ads as much as I was before I bought my LX. I hope this helps. Good luck and keep us posted.
Hey, back when they were first imported into the USA in the sixties, people used to laugh at the quality of Toyotas and Hondas, too. A Kia minivan with features comparable to (or better than) the MPV, combined with a lower price, would definitely make it worth a look. It should be noted, too, that while Kia is introducing new models and expanding, Mazda has announced that they will be eliminating 40% of their new car dealers within the next three years, which wouldn't seem to be a good sign in anybody's book for improving current models (or the longevity of the company as a whole, for that matter).
I do agree that it's possible Ford is the responsible party for screwing things up at Mazda. If it was Ford who mandated, "You're getting the 2.5L for the MPV and the 3.0L for the Tribute", well, it's just incredibly unfortunate, given the saturated SUV market now. Sales of a 3.0L Tribute aren't going to save Mazda, esp. with the high gas prices now which are making SUVs exceptionally unpopular.
The fellow who said the Subaru Forester was the best SUV is only partially right - it's the cheaper, standard Legacy version (not the flashy Outback), primarily because the execution of that vehicle is much closer to that of a normal car in both ride, appearance and gas mileage. The 4WD capability of the Legacy is exactly what most people need for the majority of their driving, unlike the exaggerated, unneccesary (and dangerous) truck-like, high ground clearance of the rest of the SUV market.
Thanks everyone for the feedback. I have not really gone in to the final stages of my negotiation since I am trying to see whether I can put some good down payment in a month and go for 24 months 0% financing. If I cannot do that I will go for 36 month financing. Since I know how to negotiate now, I will try my best to get both. I have not contacted the Middletown Mazda yet, but I will do it at the end of this month or beginning of August, when I will be ready for the purchase.
I hope the rebates will continue. I hope I should be able to get a good deal in the beginning of August since they will try to push the 2000 stocks.
Thanks for all the help. This forum has really helped me to decide my first car. (I have been driving rental cars for 1.5 years)
Those are amazing statistics considering the today's price of gas. I never would have guessed that SUV sales would still be anywhere near pre-gas hike levels.
To paraphrase an old saying, "No one ever went broke underestimating the intelligence of the American people."
I suggest to you that it has nothing to do with intelligence and everything to do with pleasure and perception. People that buy SUVs notwithstanding the increase in gas prices are doing so with full knowledge that it will cost more to drive their SUVs. They simply don't care or they do care but get more pleasure/satisfaction/feeling of safety from driving those big things than the pain of a paying the extra bucks to drive. Some of those people that buy SUVs probably must drive them for work related reasons but most (at least from my own informal observations) do it because they like it.
To get back to the KIA point, good luck, you'll need it. Maybe we MPV owners know something/lots of things you don't.
I saw an article in Auto World Weekly that list prices per gallon for various other liquids.
Coke, for example is 2.51 a gallon while Gatoraide is 4.39 a gallon. Grey Poupon mustard runs about $50.40 a gallon. Coppertone SPF 15 runs about 150 a gallon.
Just to help put it into perspective LOL
In regards to Kia. I think the Koreans will get it right in the next few years or so. When they do, even Honda and Toyota will have to rethink their markets. Kia has a ways to go yet, but they will get there. I have no doubt.
cheapest fluid you purchase at the gas station, even still.
However, I don't drink 3-5 gallons/day of coke, milk, coppertone, or grey poupon. Our family probably does burn 3-5 gallons of fuel/day in our vehicles.
Furthermore, drastic increases in energy costs can have catastrophic effects on our economy, e-revolution included. Gotta ship those computers, consultants driving, shipping those goods you buy on E-Bay and Amazon
Any opinions on the need for the 4 seasons package? I just negotiated a good deal on an ES without 4 seasons. I'm in Virginia but I'm likely to end up in the Pittsburgh area.
When/if I buy, absolutely. ~$350 for increased cooling capacity, transmission cooler, heavy duty battery, more heater controls among others things. IMHO, the vehicle may have fewer problems as it ages. Money well spent if you're the long term owner.
Though it seems to be marketed more toward cold weather climates (difficult but not impossible to find it here in Houston) this package is ideal for anyplace where you have weather extremes, hot or cold!
It is the number one option on our list - we will not buy an MPV without it.
I live in northern Louisana, so it may be most of those with 4 seasons are geared towards the northern states. My dealer did tell me almost everyone wants the package though. Personally, I think Mazda should just raise their prices $300 and included it in all of them.
For me it wasn't really an option, it was number one on my list as well.
any way to get that done AFTER buying an MPV without it? (Just wondering since we have one without it. We live in Florida, though and we called dealers within 150 miles of here and could not find ONE with 4 seasons!)
I live in the Pittsburgh area and I got the four seasons package. Our weather can vary to both really hot or really cold so it seemed like a good option to have so I got it. I've been very happy with my purchase and have had no problems yet.
One bit of advice. Negotiate your options before the deal is done. After about a month I decided I wanted the factory fog lights and my dealer told me it would be $650.00 to put them in. I passed. I think if I would have asked before the deal was done I could have done a lot better.
I have just picked up my new MPV SE and it is better that I expected. It is a joy to ride and proud to own. I have been reading all these comments in the past weeks and I am encouraged by all the positive comments I found about our new MPV. I did have concerns about the talk on problems with pulling to the left and shaking steering wheel. From what I was able to find, this was evident in the earlier production models 07/99 - 10/99.
I would also suggest that other MPV owners look into purchasing the rear bumper step plate. This protects the bumper from the usual scathes that occur when removing items from the cargo area. For $35 (Canadian) $30 US it is worth the investment. It also looks fantastic with the MPV logo embossed in the plate. It is only available in black.
That's unbelievable! $650 for fog lights?? I'm glad I got em on mine from the factory. Have you looked at aftermarket fog lights? Should be WAY cheaper than that. I'll be putting the RBSP on pretty soon. Couple of questions.
1) Anyone have the cargo mat? Is it worth it, or is it something rather cheap?
2) If you have the entertainment system, have you ordered the wireless headphones? If so, how much are they running?
Comments
We tend to keep her car about 6/7 years and dont put a lot of miles on it.
Is the extended warranty really worth it and
how much should I expect to pay.
Thanks
I LOVE MY MPVVVVVV (Dire Straights Money for Nothing tone
Downshifting is ok because engines are more efficient as they near their torque peak.
Actually the MPV mostly downshifts when I drive it because I like to go faster than my wife. :-)
kmh3
pawnie
My ES has
Rear Air
Roof Rack
Sunroof
6 Cd changer
all the mats and the nets & mudguards
Paid $25390
Traded a 95 Olds 88
Other dealers would give $4000 but I got $6000. So I bought low sold high. No complaints. Plus that was when there was no $1k rebate!
Coupon has been published every weekend for last few weeks in Washington Post, in Mazda MPV ad rather than individual dealer ad. Good for "$500 Cash Back on a new 2000 Mazda MPV equipped with a factory-installed Rear Seat Entertainment System. Just present this ticket to your Mazda dealer."
Good for delivery through 9/5/00.
I imagine most major papers would have this coupon in their car ads.
If not, have you checked with a dealer. If the entire $500 is coming from Mazda, rather than from their own pockets, they may have coupons to give away.
So I have found 3 dealers within 100 miles who will sell the LX at invoice and waive the 480 delivery charge. This indicates to me a 520 profit considering the 1k from Mazda to the dealer. I am satisfied with this. I know I could do better in a large city or in NE US where they have a customer rebate but I live in Iowa.
I'm leaning toward the emerald green with 1X security, roof rack, 3 in 1, 4 seasons package that works out to 21801. There also is a blue one that is similar w/o roof rack. It doesn't stay hot long enough around here for rear a/c.
My one question is the poor rating from Edmunds on the 5 year value. My insurance rates are much lower than the example, and using my 92 Caravan as a guide I don't possibly expect to spend 2500 on maintenance. I have spent about half that in 8 years and followed the owner's manual faithfully, including such things as transmission and radiator service every 2 years. The Dodge has 113k and doesn't use oil, should last several more years.
I appreciate this forum and all the great information available on line.
Thanks All.
Per the leaflet it states:
"This feature makes it possible to automatically skip intervals between songs if the interval is 15 seconds long or longer.
Press the blank skip button to set the blank skip ("BS" will be displayed).
Press the blank skip button once again to cancel the blank skip function."
When we purchased our MPV our dealer gave us a separate leaflet that covers all the radio controls. The leaflet is called "MPV Owner's Manual Leaflet" (how appropriate!) and there is a number on the bottom left corner "L041-00B" It is white and is 23 pages long. If you can't get one I can mail you a copy if you want me to.
Would we be better off getting a 9" tv w/VCR and powering it from the lighter??
You could put something else in there, just make sure it's secure and cannot move around in the event of a sudden stop or crash.
BTW, Rosen is the OEM for Mazda on the ENT system.
Should you ever need something checked out on it, you have their sources, and not just Mazda's.
I think they've released their new rates to dealers and advertising, and the internet sources will have them listed in a few days.
I checked Edmunds and Carpoint and they only list rebates/incentives good through June 30. They show the Protege rebate good only through then, and they show the financing rate for 24 months at 0.9%, which is what the saleslady said. I'm guessing that 0% is the new rate through September 5th, and other rates will come down by about a point as well (maybe 3.9 for 48 months, 5.9 for 60 months, etc.). I wouldn't be surprised if they kept the same rebates and incentives for another three months or even bettered them. The MPV sold 3,552 units in June, about 300 more than May, but I think that's well short of their sales goal.
The problems I had with the MPV were pretty much sorted out with the second test drive. We drove a sapphire blue ES (sticker = 26,500) with a roof rack as the only option. That is the most gorgeous blue I've ever seen on any car! The MPV felt so much more tightly built than the Montana, the brakes were absolutely fantastic, and the body roll seemed minimal. I adjusted the seat all the way down and got a perfect driving position, and then adjusted the tilt wheel slightly and had no problem seeing the left 3 buttons on the radio. I did not notice any of the problems that this thread has mentioned on a consistent basis. The LX we drove last time didn't seem quite as nice a drive. Has anyone driven both and LX and ES and noticed any differences?
Has anyone noticed that the wheels on the driver's seat to change the height and tilt adjustments are VERY hard to turn? Has anyone tried to improve that, or does it get looser with time and use?
I think there's going to be an MPV in my garage soon....
I looked pretty hard at the Montana too. Just didn't measure up to the MPV in my opinion. The MPV offers alot more for the money, IMHO. Our MPV is still "new", and I still find something I like about it daily. Didn't get my first color choice (sand), but got all the options I wanted, plus some I didn't think I would want (but now glad I got). If you see someone driving a silver MPV ES with a big SEG on their face in northern Louisana, it's probably me.
yes i already looked at the sonar backing device in our local Derand electronics store. They had 2 models available, one that beeps faster as an object gets nearer and the other one which i liked shows the exact distance on a liquid crystal display ($199 canadian). since i just had window tints and alarm installed, im waiting until my pockets refill. i just realized i should have gotten at least the LX since the difference now that i paid for the convenience package and the alarm isnt that much... plus we are still missing a lot of those other neat options (seat height adjusters and rear air foremost). but we leased in a rush due to necessity and was rather unprepared.... hopefully in a year or so we can upgrade to at least an LX. even more hopefully the dealer will be amicable to cut the lease if we purchase from them.
back to the backing devices...
we tried one of those transparent plastic magnifying lens that you stick on your rear windows. it works kinda like a peephole to your back view giving wider rear viewing angle and allows you to see objects near the rear bumper. didnt like it specially since at the level where she can see it (which is around upper center) it blocked the view of rear traffic.
on the extenders, yeah i guess you'd find those a pain since you are taller. at 5'9" i figure i can still push the seat back all the way and live with... and the mpv seats DO seem to be able to push a long way back.
cant wait for those extenders to arrive. we just drove 1900 km round trip to Cleveland Ohio last weekend to visit parents. Wife drove 1/4th of the way and would have drove longer except she was too near that airbag and her feet cramped from stretching too far. each way took around 10 to 12 hours with 3 30 min stops for the kiddo... we found the seats comfortable flat firm support but with a soft and gentle surface.
here are some of the newer things we didnt see before in the mpv:
- the inside rear lift gate handle enables wife to reach it...yeow!! i actually thought it was some useless gimmicky feature until my wife showed me why it was there. BOY WAS I EVER HAPPY! i no longer felt bad we didnt wait for that 2001 dodge caravan power lift gate (...would probably have hated it since i dont like power sliding doors that much).
- we try to keep the back seats folded until needed so she has better rear view. the side by slide seats actually helps in some instances. slide it apart when wife is in tough backing spot then slide it right back in when driving away... try THAT with the ODY or the Sienna!!!
- 4.5 yr old daughter just loves to operate that 2nd row power windows (she knows very well not to stick body parts out) and she has the best view due to those theatre seating. i actually like sitting back there with her than in front.
will post more as they come bugaboox.
"...Meanwhile, a Japanese newspaper quoted Mazda president Mark Fields as having said the company would close up to 40 percent of its U.S. dealerships over the next three years, citing poor performance for the brand. A Mazda official in Irvine, California, commented that this was not fresh news, while the chairman of the company's national dealer council said that he had never heard the 40 percent figure mentioned. Nevertheless, there must be a kernel of truth somewhere amongst the rumors, innuendoes and vague comments."
In rural regions, however, where there is less population and fewer Mazda dealers, this may spell trouble for owners who indeed might have their closest Mazda dealership closed up on them.
And just when you're thinking "well I'll just sell my Mazda if they close up the nearest dealership" consider this: if there's no convenient dealership available for warranty work or parts in your area, the market for used Mazdas in your area could dry up real fast, I would think.
Wishful thinking maybe, but I would think Mazda would have to have some sort of parts/warranty shops open in their current markets to avoid lawsuits and such. Either that or pay bigtime money to tow my car 100 miles to fix it.
I spoke to the (very nice) customer service line recently (Audry) and got the same identical answer as you re. new engine. I disagree that "bugging them" at this point is going to change anything for the 2001 model year. That decision is done and over with. Production starts in a matter of weeks, and the supply chain is on notice I would expect. The number of calls coming to them earlier this year, press reviews and competitor offerings would have made the difference. Having read some excellent prior posts here, sounds like the 3.0 ltr was Mazda pick from the start, but FoMoCo was (is) unwilling to supply. If we don't see it for '01, they are digging a hole for themselves regarding future competitiveness. I will be thrilled to buy a 3.0 liter and will do so quickly, if not, will take a much harder look a short list of competitors.
By the way, Ruteger, KIA would have to make a show stopper, a real stunner of a van to be considered on the same playing field as HonToyMaz. I don't care what engine drops into it, can't see owning one. If offered, maybe the price on the phantom van will come down, nah.
0% for 24 months
2.9 for 36 months
4.9 for 48 months
6.9 for 60 months
There is a $1372 rebate if you get the entertainment system. You can't combine these offers, take your pick.
We have been offered the rebate of $1000 and price of $300 under invoice. Sounds like a deal, but it was offered via email in response to my request for a price. They didn't have what we wanted on the lot, but found one at the port. We put a deposit on it and at that time clarified by phone that the $300 under invoice was what we wanted. Salesman agreed, but I won't believe it until we sign on the dotted line. Wish me luck,
Take care.
Yesterday I went to the dealer to test drive MPV and we will go ahead on that. I live in whiteplains,NY and I tried the dealer ADZAM at Bedford Hills. Tom was the sales rep. and he was very nice. But he confirmed that I can have either the mazda financing or the $1000 rebate, not both. How you guys manage to get both of them?
Thanks in Advance.
What was Adzam's deal?
Middletown took $500 off of Total Invoice and 6.9% Financing.
Salesman was Bob Conway. Really nice guy, not too pushy. Once he knew I had done my homework through Edmund's and I had a list of all invoice prices, he knew I was serious about buying and was very accommodating. I first told him that I knew people were purchasing MPV for $200-$300 over dealer cost after the $1,000 dealer incentive. He and his manager said they could not go that low. They came back with $500 over and wanted to add $100 for transportation fee, which I later had waived. I then asked about the special financing for 60mos. and they said they could get me the 6.9%. Seeing how I was getting both I figured it was a good deal.
I agree with modiecast, first negotiate the sales price, then talk finance, trade in, or lease. Once they commit to a price you are willing to spend, they will try to accommodate your other requests. In my case, I believe they gave me the special financing because they saw that I had spent so much time researching everything and was serious about buying that they were willing to make the deal right then and there. Mazda is definitely trying to drum up sales and make a name for itself. The salesman actually told me that because it was the end of the month they were eager to make a deal.
IMHO, since it is getting closer to the arrival of 2001 models, you should be able to get a great deal. I have not heard of any special rebates regarding the entertainment system here in NY. Then again, I am not looking at the car ads as much as I was before I bought my LX.
I hope this helps.
Good luck and keep us posted.
I do agree that it's possible Ford is the responsible party for screwing things up at Mazda. If it was Ford who mandated, "You're getting the 2.5L for the MPV and the 3.0L for the Tribute", well, it's just incredibly unfortunate, given the saturated SUV market now. Sales of a 3.0L Tribute aren't going to save Mazda, esp. with the high gas prices now which are making SUVs exceptionally unpopular.
The fellow who said the Subaru Forester was the best SUV is only partially right - it's the cheaper, standard Legacy version (not the flashy Outback), primarily because the execution of that vehicle is much closer to that of a normal car in both ride, appearance and gas mileage. The 4WD capability of the Legacy is exactly what most people need for the majority of their driving, unlike the exaggerated, unneccesary (and dangerous) truck-like, high ground clearance of the rest of the SUV market.
But that really does belong on another board...
Thanks everyone for the feedback. I have not really gone in to the final stages of my negotiation since I am trying to see whether
I can put some good down payment in a month and go for 24 months 0% financing. If I cannot do that I will go for 36 month financing. Since I know how to negotiate now, I will try my best to get both. I have not contacted the Middletown Mazda yet, but I will do it at the end of this month or beginning of August, when I will be ready for the purchase.
I hope the rebates will continue. I hope I should be able to get a good deal in the beginning of August since they will try to push the 2000 stocks.
Thanks for all the help. This forum has really helped me to decide my first car. (I have been driving rental cars for 1.5 years)
To paraphrase an old saying, "No one ever went broke underestimating the intelligence of the American people."
To get back to the KIA point, good luck, you'll need it. Maybe we MPV owners know something/lots of things you don't.
Coke, for example is 2.51 a gallon while Gatoraide is 4.39 a gallon. Grey Poupon mustard runs about $50.40 a gallon. Coppertone SPF 15 runs about 150 a gallon.
Just to help put it into perspective
In regards to Kia. I think the Koreans will get it right in the next few years or so. When they do, even Honda and Toyota will have to rethink their markets. Kia has a ways to go yet, but they will get there. I have no doubt.
However, I don't drink 3-5 gallons/day of coke, milk, coppertone, or grey poupon. Our family probably does burn 3-5 gallons of fuel/day in our vehicles.
Furthermore, drastic increases in energy costs can have catastrophic effects on our economy, e-revolution included. Gotta ship those computers, consultants driving, shipping those goods you buy on E-Bay and Amazon
Cheers,
TB
It is the number one option on our list - we will not buy an MPV without it.
For me it wasn't really an option, it was number one on my list as well.
One bit of advice. Negotiate your options before the deal is done. After about a month I decided I wanted the factory fog lights and my dealer told me it would be $650.00 to put them in. I passed. I think if I would have asked before the deal was done I could have done a lot better.
I would also suggest that other MPV owners look into purchasing the rear bumper step plate. This protects the bumper from the usual scathes that occur when removing items from the cargo area. For $35 (Canadian) $30 US it is worth the investment. It also looks fantastic with the MPV logo embossed in the plate. It is only available in black.
The is what I paid for the vehicle in Canadian $
MPV SE 33 605
fog lights 699
rust proofing 699
discount 3158
subtotal 31 845
freight/pdi 995
air tax 100
admin fee 125
subtotal 33065
provincle tax 2200
federal tax 1900
total 37165
This looks like a lot of money to most but remember this is in Canadian funds. The US funds equivalent would be approx 70% of Canadian $.
Anyways, I look forward to reading this page in the months and years to come.
Gino
Toronto, Canada
1) Anyone have the cargo mat? Is it worth it, or is it something rather cheap?
2) If you have the entertainment system, have you ordered the wireless headphones? If so, how much are they running?
Thanks