MAZDA is preparing the ground for the arrival later this year of its version of the latest trend for mini-MPVs.

The Mazda5 made its world debut at last year's Paris Motor Show and its makers anticipate that it will find its way on to company car choice lists just as the UK MPV segment reaches record levels.

Despite its roominess and flexibility, the Mazda5 is just 85mm (3.35 inches) longer than the compact Mazda3 five-door model and 155mm (6.1 inches) higher, while the width is the same on both cars.

The Mazda5's double sliding doors on both sides - unique in the class - provide entry to a vehicle with room for up to seven adults and walk-through convenience, while the cabin's open space puts an emphasis on flexibility and comfort.

The Mazda5, which will enter showrooms in the final quarter of 2005, has a unique seating concept which sees the second row of seats slide, adjust and recline, and both second and third row seats can be folded down to form a large load area with a virtually flat floor.

The engine line-up will include two derivatives of a newly-developed 2.0-litre common-rail turbo diesel engine (110bhp and 143bhp) with a catalytic diesel particulate filter and a new six-speed manual transmission.

Completing the list of Mazda5 powertrains will be two four-cylinder MZR series petrol engines - a 1.8-litre with 115bhp and a 2.0-litre producing 145bhp - matched to a five-speed manual transmission.

UK specification and prices will be announced closer to the Mazda5's launch date.