Despite its smaller size, the MPV's acceleration performance is not as good as it might be as it is powered by a relatively small 2.5-liter engine. Undoubtedly in the rest of the world, where it is sold with a manual transmission, it performs adequately but when coupled with the standard four-speed automatic transmission in the U.S. model it has to work that much harder. The engine lacks low-end torque, which means it needs revving more to get the power required for passing or entering a freeway onramp. Having said that, the engine's power output is perfectly sufficient for keeping up with traffic in most situations, especially when not fully laden. At cruising speeds the vehicle is quiet with little wind noise.It's handling is somewhat better than most minivans especially when fitted with the 16-inch wheels and tires. This shows most on the highway where the vehicle takes curves without a murmur, although there is inevitably some body roll. The ride is firm without being harsh. The rack-and-pinion steering gives a precise feel to the steering and its power varies acquiring to engine speed, although it is not as precise at speed on the freeways as it might be.