Market Segment:
Front-engine, front-wheel drive (FWD) compact sports coupe, positioned as an affordable yet stylish performance option.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Celica, Honda Prelude, Nissan Silvia (S14), Mazda MX-6.
Design Philosophy:
Distinctive aerodynamic styling, driver-focused cockpit, emphasis on sporty handling and performance.
Unique Selling Points:
Aggressive coupe styling, availability of MIVEC engine technology (on some models), optional 'Sport Mode' automatic transmission.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical (V6 6A12 and 4-cylinder 4G93 DOHC MIVEC), fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, emissions control system, engine management (ECU diagnosis).
Drivetrain Systems:
Manual transmission (5-speed), INVECS-II Sport Mode Tiptronic automatic transmission (4-speed), clutch system, differentials, drive shafts, axles.
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (front MacPherson strut, rear multi-link), steering system (power assisted rack and pinion), brake system (front ventilated discs, rear discs/drums depending on trim), wheels and tires.
Electrical Systems:
Power distribution, lighting, instruments, wipers/washers, horn, audio system, immobilizer, SRS airbag system, ECU pinouts, body electrical components.
Body And Interior Systems:
Body construction, exterior trim, doors, windows, locks, seats, interior trim panels, HVAC system, seat belts.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks/changes, spark plugs, belts), lubrication points, inspection procedures.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides for common drivability issues, electrical faults, system malfunctions, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, overhaul, and adjustment for all major vehicle systems.
Electrical Repair:
Detailed wiring diagrams, electrical component locations, testing procedures for circuits and sensors.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed torque specifications and clearances.
Engine Type V6:
60-degree SOHC V6
Displacement V6:
2.0 Liters (1998 cc)
Power Output V6 Non Mivec:
Approx. 168-170 PS (125-127 kW) @ 6000 rpm
Torque Output V6 Non Mivec:
Approx. 192-195 Nm (142-144 lb-ft) @ 4500 rpm
Engine Code V6 Mivec:
6A12 MIVEC
Power Output V6 Mivec:
Approx. 197-200 PS (145-147 kW) @ 7000 rpm
Torque Output V6 Mivec:
Approx. 192-195 Nm (142-144 lb-ft) @ 5500 rpm
Engine Type 4Cyl:
1.8 Liter DOHC MIVEC Inline-4
Displacement 4Cyl:
1.8 Liters (1830 cc)
Power Output 4Cyl:
Approx. 125 PS (92 kW) @ 6500 rpm
Torque Output 4Cyl:
Approx. 160 Nm (118 lb-ft) @ 5500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI - Multi-Point Injection)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission Type:
INVECS-II Sport Mode 4-speed Automatic Transmission with Tiptronic functionality
FWD Layout:
Front-engine, Front-wheel drive (FWD)
Length:
Approx. 4310 mm (169.7 in)
Width:
Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1295 mm (51.0 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2500 mm (98.4 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1200-1300 kg (2645-2866 lbs) depending on engine and trim
Airbags:
Driver's airbag (standard on most models), optional passenger airbag.
Seat Belts:
Pretensioner seatbelts with force limiters.
Body Structure:
Reinforced body structure for crash safety.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option or standard on higher trims.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Engine Oil Filter Change:
At every oil change.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for iridium/platinum plugs, consult manual for specific type.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Approx. 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years for 6A12 V6 engines. Consult manual for 4G93 timing chain inspection/maintenance.
Engine Oil Type V6:
API SG/SH or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for exact viscosity based on temperature).
Engine Oil Capacity V6:
Approx. 4.3 Liters (4.5 US quarts) with filter change.
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
Dia Queen ATF-SP II M or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil.
Common Problems:
Potential for oil leaks from valve cover gaskets and oil pan; wear on suspension bushings; aging electrical connectors leading to intermittent issues; MIVEC solenoid failure on some V6 units; automatic transmission shift quality degradation over time.