Vehicle Segment:
Luxury Mid-size Sedan
Target Audience:
Discerning buyers seeking a comfortable, stylish, and technologically advanced sedan with a focus on refinement and driving pleasure.
Key Competitors:
Acura Legend, Lexus ES, Toyota Avalon, Infiniti J30, BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class (depending on market and specific trim).
Design Philosophy:
Mazda's 'Motoring Jinba Ittai' (horse and rider as one) philosophy, emphasizing driver engagement and intuitive control, integrated into a luxury package.
Unique Selling Points:
Optional Miller-cycle V6 engine for improved torque and efficiency, distinctive styling, quiet and refined cabin, advanced features for its time.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing system, lubrication system, cooling system
Engine Management:
Fuel injection system (MPI), ignition system, emission control systems (EVAP, EGR), diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor and actuator testing
Transmission Automatic:
Transmission assembly, torque converter, valve body, hydraulic control system, electronic control unit (TCU), fluid and filter service
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) operation and troubleshooting, hydraulic components, parking brake
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, tilt and telescopic mechanisms
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant handling, blower motor, A/C compressor, climate control unit
Body And Interior:
Exterior panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, seats, airbags, safety restraints
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs, belt inspections and tensioning
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation
Component Removal And Installation:
Step-by-step instructions for removing and installing major and minor vehicle components
Specifications And Tolerances:
Detailed torque specifications, clearances, and alignment settings for various components
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, including sensor data interpretation and actuating system tests via diagnostic scan tools
Repair Complexity:
Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including bodywork and electrical system repairs
Engine Code Millenia:
KJ-VEM (3.0L Miller Cycle V6)
Engine Displacement Millenia:
2954 cc (3.0 Liters)
Engine Configuration Millenia:
V6, 24-valve, DOHC
Horsepower Millenia:
212 hp @ 6300 rpm (approx.)
Torque Millenia:
216 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm (approx.)
Engine Code Standard:
KL-ZE (3.0L V6)
Engine Displacement Standard:
2954 cc (3.0 Liters)
Engine Configuration Standard:
V6, 24-valve, DOHC
Horsepower Standard:
190-200 hp (approx.)
Torque Standard:
200-205 lb-ft (approx.)
Miller Cycle Benefit:
Supercharger with intercooler and unique valve timing for increased low-end torque and improved volumetric efficiency.
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 to 5,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Consult manual for exact interval and fluid type.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Recommended replacement every 60,000 to 90,000 miles or 5-7 years for the non-Miller cycle engine. Miller cycle engines may have different recommendations due to the supercharger drive belt.
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ or higher, SAE 5W-30 synthetic or semi-synthetic recommended. Check manual for specific viscosity grade.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Mazda ATF MV (or equivalent Mercon V compatible fluid)
Coolant Type:
Mazda Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent OAT type) with a 50/50 mix.
Miller Cycle Engine:
Supercharger belt wear, potential intake manifold gasket leaks, carbon buildup issues if not maintained properly.
Automatic Transmission:
Occasional shifting issues, potential solenoid failures if fluid is not maintained.
Electronics:
Climate control panel issues, power window motor failures, ABS sensor malfunctions can occur with age.
Suspension Components:
Wear in bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends due to mileage and age.
Mazda Reputation:
Mazda, known for its sporty driving dynamics and innovative technologies (e.g., rotary engine), also aimed for upscale segments with models like the Millenia/Eunos 800.
Development Basis:
Based on the Mazda Cronos platform, sharing some elements with other Mazda vehicles of the early 1990s.
Miller Cycle Introduction:
Key differentiator was the optional supercharged Miller-cycle V6 engine, a unique offering in its class at the time, designed for enhanced torque and efficiency.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Sales Performance:
Sales were modest compared to established luxury brands, often overshadowed by its unique but sometimes complex powertrain.
