Segment:
Mid-size sedan (often referred to as a sporty sedan)
Competitors:
Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, Ford Fusion, Chevrolet Malibu.
Design Philosophy:
Mazda's 'Zoom-Zoom' driving dynamics, distinctive styling.
Body Styles:
4-door Sedan, 5-door Hatchback (also known as Sport)
Powertrain:
Engine operation, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system.
Drivetrain:
Transmission operation (manual and automatic), clutch system, drive axles.
Chassis:
Braking system (ABS, EBD), steering system, suspension system.
Electrical:
Lighting system, instrument cluster, gauges, warning lights, fuses, battery, starting system, charging system, basic infotainment system controls.
Body And Interior:
Doors, windows, locks, seats, climate control, interior features, exterior features, keyless entry, security system.
Routine Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels, tire pressure, bulb replacement, wiper blade replacement, engine oil and filter change recommendations.
Operation:
Starting and stopping the engine, driving techniques, parking, using climate control, operating audio system, safety features.
Troubleshooting:
Interpretation of dashboard warning lights, basic on-road issue resolution, emergency procedures.
Depth:
Owner-level information focused on safe operation, basic maintenance, and understanding vehicle features. Does not include detailed diagnostic or repair procedures typically found in a service manual.
Engine Code 1:
LF-DE (2.0L MZR I4)
Displacement 1:
1999 cc (2.0 Liters)
Horsepower 1:
148 hp @ 6000 rpm (approximate)
Torque 1:
138 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approximate)
Engine Code 2:
L3-VE (2.3L MZR I4)
Displacement 2:
2261 cc (2.3 Liters)
Horsepower 2:
160 hp @ 6000 rpm (approximate)
Torque 2:
155 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approximate)
Engine Code 3:
MZR DISI TURBO (2.3L MZR Turbo I4)
Displacement 3:
2261 cc (2.3 Liters)
Horsepower 3:
215 hp @ 5500 rpm (approximate)
Torque 3:
205 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (approximate)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Recommended Octane:
87 AKI or higher (87 octane recommended for standard engines, higher may be recommended for turbo)
Transmission Type 1:
5-speed Manual Transmission (FWD)
Transmission Type 2:
5-speed Automatic Transmission with Sequential Sport Shift (FWD)
Transmission Type 3:
6-speed Manual Transmission (Mazdaspeed6 models)
Transmission Type 4:
5-speed Automatic Transmission (Mazdaspeed6 models)
AWD Availability:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) was available on certain 2.3L models.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-Star
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:
4-Star
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Brake Assist:
Available Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA)
Airbags:
Front airbags, available front side-impact airbags, available side-impact curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters for all seating positions.
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD player, optional Bose premium audio system with subwoofer.
Climate Control:
Manual climate control or optional automatic climate control.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Auxiliary Input:
Rarely standard, may be an aftermarket addition or found on higher trims with premium audio.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), or as indicated by the Maintenance Minder system if equipped.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (refer to manual for specific conditions).
Cabin Air Filter:
Every 15,000 miles or 1 year.
Spark Plugs:
Approximately 100,000 miles (Platinum or Iridium plugs).
Engine Oil Type 1:
API SN, ILSAC GF-5 or newer, SAE 5W-20 (for 2.0L and 2.3L naturally aspirated)
Engine Oil Type 2:
SAE 5W-30 (for 2.3L DISI Turbo Mazdaspeed6)
Coolant Type:
Mazda FL22 Antifreeze (or equivalent long-life silicate-free coolant)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil (specific Mazda part number recommended)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mazda ATF Type M-III or equivalent
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Common Wear Item:
Clutch wear (manual transmission models), front suspension components (bushings, sway bar links).
Electrical Gremlins:
Occasional issues with power window motors, door lock actuators, and SRS system warning lights.
Engine Oil Consumption:
Some 2.3L engines (especially early models) could exhibit higher than normal oil consumption, particularly if not maintained diligently.
Rust Prone Areas:
Rear wheel arches, rocker panels, and subframes can be susceptible to rust in corrosive climates.
Turbo Specific Issues:
Mazdaspeed6 turbo models can be prone to turbocharger failure if oil starvation occurs or if not properly cooled after spirited driving.
Mazda Philosophy:
Known for sporty driving dynamics, innovative design, and a focus on driver engagement.
First Generation Start:
2003 (globally), 2002 (Japan as Atenza).
Second Generation Start:
2008
Manufacturing Plant:
Hofu, Yamaguchi, Japan.
Production Years:
2002-2008 (First Generation)