Target Audience:
Families needing a three-row crossover SUV with roomy seating and car-like driving dynamics.
Key Advantage:
Sporty handling and a powerful turbocharged inline-six-derived four compared with the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, and Chevrolet Traverse.
Notable Feature:
273 hp 3.7L V6, available all-wheel drive, three-row seating for up to seven
Other Feature:
Available power liftgate, Bose audio, blind spot monitoring
Vehicle at a Glance:
Interior and exterior views with part identification
Essential Safety Equipment:
Seat belts, child-restraint systems, SRS air bags
Instruments and Controls:
Explanation of all gauges, switches, and indicators
Climate Control:
Operation of air-conditioning and heater systems
Audio System:
Use of various comfort and entertainment features
Starting and Driving:
Before driving and driving operation instructions
Emergency Procedures:
What to do in case of an emergency, including roadside help
Maintenance and Care:
Scheduled service and owner-performed care
Door and Seat Adjustment:
Opening, closing, and adjustment of various parts
Warranty Information:
Customer information, warranties, and reporting safety defects
Owner-Level Detail:
Owners manual depth: operation, basic care, fluid checks, tire pressures, bulb replacement
Repair-Level Detail:
N/A - this is an owners manual, not a workshop service manual
Specifications Section:
Technical information and index included
Part Identification:
Illustrated interior and exterior component views
Genuine Parts Guidance:
Recommendations for Mazda-approved fluids, filters, and replacement parts
Torque Specifications:
N/A - wheel lug and service torque basics only; see service manual for full data
Fluid Capacities:
Listed in the specifications chapter
Replacement Intervals:
Maintenance schedule with mileage and time intervals
File Format:
PDF (searchable, bookmarked, zoomable)
Compatibility:
Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android — any device with a PDF reader
Requirements:
A PDF reader application (e.g. Adobe Acrobat Reader, free)
Searchability:
Fully text searchable for fast lookup of any topic
Print Quality:
High-resolution digital pages, printable at full clarity
Binding Type:
N/A — digital download, no physical binding
Paper Type:
N/A — digital download, no physical paper
Engine:
3.7L MZI V6 (Ford Duratec 37 derived)
Displacement:
3.7 liters (3,726 cc)
Configuration:
V6, DOHC, 24 valves
Fuel:
Regular unleaded, 87 octane
Horsepower:
273 hp @ 6,250 rpm
Torque:
270 lb-ft @ 4,250 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential multi-port electronic fuel injection
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approximately 20.1 gallons (76 liters)
Standard Transmission:
6-speed Sport AT automatic with manual shift mode
Optional Transmission:
N/A - single transmission offering for this model
Drive Type:
Front-wheel drive standard; Active Torque-Split all-wheel drive optional
Features:
Overdrive lockout, manual shift mode, AWD with electronic coupling
NHTSA Overall Rating:
Five-star government frontal and side crash ratings for 2008
IIHS Rating:
Good rating in frontal offset testing for this generation
ABS:
4-wheel anti-lock braking system
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control with traction control
Blind Spot Monitoring:
Available on Grand Touring trim
Airbags:
Dual front, front side, and three-row side curtain airbags
Restraints:
Front pretensioners, LATCH child-seat anchors, tire pressure monitoring system
Audio System:
AM/FM/6-disc CD changer; Bose 10-speaker premium audio on Grand Touring
Connectivity:
Auxiliary audio input jack; Bluetooth hands-free available
Blind Spot Monitoring:
Available Blind Spot Monitoring system
Convenience:
Keyless entry, push-button start available on Grand Touring
Advanced Driver Aids:
N/A - adaptive cruise and lane assist not offered in 2008
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months under severe conditions; 7,500 miles normal
Tire Rotation:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles
Air Filter:
Inspect regularly; replace about every 30,000 miles
Spark Plugs:
Approximately every 100,000 miles
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-20, API certified oil
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mazda ATF M-V or equivalent
Coolant:
Mazda long-life coolant, flush interval approximately 60,000 miles then 30,000
Known Issues / Wear Items
Brakes:
Frequent wear item on heavier trims; inspect pads and rotors regularly
Water Pump:
Inspect for seepage at higher mileage on the 3.7L V6
Battery and Tires:
Check battery terminals and tire pressure monthly