Class:
Luxury Mid-size Sedan
Original Target Market:
Premium segment, competing with Japanese and European luxury sedans of its era.
Key Competitors Era:
Acura Legend, Lexus ES, Infiniti J30, BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Distinguishing Technology:
Miller Cycle engine (supercharged variant) offering a unique blend of power and efficiency.
Design Philosophy:
European-inspired styling and a focus on quiet, comfortable cruising.
Engine:
3.0L V6 Miller Cycle (Supercharged and Naturally Aspirated), 2.5L V6 (later models)
Engine Management:
Fuel Injection (EFI), Ignition System, Emissisions Control (EVAP, EGR), Supercharger operation and maintenance (if applicable)
Transmission:
Automatic Transmission (4-speed and 5-speed depending on year/engine)
Drivetrain:
Front Wheel Drive (FWD), Axles, Drive Shafts, Differentials
Suspension:
Front and Rear Suspension Systems (Struts, Control Arms, Bushings, Ball Joints, Stabilizer Bars)
Brakes:
Front and Rear Disc Brakes, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Parking Brake
Steering:
Power Steering System, Steering Rack and Pinion
Cooling System:
Radiator, Water Pump, Thermostat, Cooling Fan, Hoses, Coolant Specifications
Fuel System:
Fuel Tank, Fuel Pump, Fuel Lines, Fuel Filter, Injectors, Fuel Pressure Specifications
Electrical System:
Battery, Alternator, Starter Motor, Lighting System, Fuses, Relays, Wiring Diagrams, ECU
HVAC:
Air Conditioning System, Heater Core, Blower Motor, Controls, Refrigerant Specifications
Body And Trim:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Interior Trim, Glass
Chassis:
Frame, Subframes, Mounts
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Replacement
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Body Panel Repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides for Common Issues, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and their meaning, Symptom-based troubleshooting
Specifications:
Torque Specifications for all fasteners, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Schematics, Component Dimensions
Troubleshooting:
Detailed step-by-step procedures for diagnosing and resolving specific vehicle problems
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic preventative maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Code Millenia:
KJ-ZE (3.0L V6 Miller Cycle Supercharged), KL-DE (3.0L V6 Naturally Aspirated)
Horsepower Kj-Ze:
210 hp @ 5300 rpm (approx.)
Torque Kj-Ze:
210 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (approx.)
Horsepower Kl-De:
195 hp @ 5500 rpm (approx.)
Torque Kl-De:
200 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (approx.)
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended, especially for supercharged models)
Bore X Stroke 3.0L:
84.5 mm x 89.0 mm (approx.)
Compression Ratio Kj-Ze:
8.3:1 (with Miller Cycle)
Compression Ratio Kl-De:
9.4:1 (approx.)
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not extensively documented, generally considered average for its era.
ABS:
Standard on most models
Traction Control:
Optional on some models, often linked with ABS
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger airbags standard
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pre-tensioners
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH system not present in earlier models, but ISOFIX equivalent compatibility may exist on later versions.
Audio System:
Premium audio systems available, often with cassette and CD players. Bose premium sound systems were common.
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control with digital display on higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard feature
Keyless Entry:
Available on higher trim levels
Phone Integration:
No integrated smartphone connectivity (Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto) as it predates modern standards.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km), inspect annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) depending on type (platinum recommended).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) or 5-7 years, highly critical for interference engines.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 API SG or higher, synthetic recommended for supercharged models.
Coolant Type:
Mazda Long Life Coolant (Green) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with demineralized water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear of engine mounts, leading to vibration.
Transmission Issues:
Occasional rough shifting or failure to engage gears in higher mileage transmissions.
Suspension Components:
Wear in control arm bushings, ball joints, and sway bar links.
Supercharger Belt:
Wear or slippage of the supercharger drive belt on KJ-ZE models.
Electrical Connectors:
Corrosion or degradation of electrical connectors, especially in damp climates.
Manufacturer:
Mazda Motor Corporation
Brand Reputation Era:
Known for reliable and engaging driving dynamics, moving into premium segments with models like the Millenia.
Platform:
Based on the Mazda Lantis platform (Mazda Xedos 6 in other markets).
Generations:
Two generations, with the 1994-2002 representing the first generation and a significant facelift/update within that period.
Key Changes 1997 Facelift:
Introduction of the naturally aspirated 2.5L V6 engine, updated styling, and revised interior features.
Production Start Year:
1994
Production End Year:
2002
Manufacturing Location:
Hofu Plant, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan
