MPV is short for Multi Purpose Vehicle. The term is popular in Europe and elsewhere but not generally used within North America; minivan is the nearest equivalent. An MPV is a passenger carrying vehicle based on a car platform, and is generally a one box design - neither a distinct bonnet (US: hood) nor boot (US: trunk), but rather a maximised interior space. MPVs generally have a flat floor and removable seats except for the front row, and give great flexibility of seating arrangements and cargo capacity. The Renault Espace, launched in 1984 was the first MPV avaliable in Europe.
The North American concept of a "minivan" is very similar, except that the minivan classification implies a certain vehicle size while in Europe, MPVs vary in size quite a bit. Some MPVs are produced on quite small car chassis while others definitely fit within the minivan class.
MPV also is Mine Protected Vehicle, simialar to an APC (see APC) be with inherint mine protection.
The Mazda MPV is a model of MPV or minivan built by Mazda.
