Market Segment:
Mid-size Sedan/Wagon
Key Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, Nissan Altima, Volkswagen Passat
Platform Highlight:
Based on Mazda's 'GJ' platform (shared with Ford Mondeo in early development), known for good handling dynamics and sporty feel.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasized 'Zoom-Zoom' driving experience, stylish design, and a premium feel for its class.
Powertrain:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (ECU), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Automatic Transmission, Manual Transmission
Chassis:
Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Steering System, Brake System (ABS, DSC), Wheel Alignment
Electrical:
Body Electrical System, Lighting System, Meter and Gauges, Audio System, Navigation System, HVAC Control, Power Windows, Power Locks, SRS (Airbag) System, Immobilizer System
Body And Trim:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Hood, Trunk/Tailgate, Seats, Glass
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance Intervals, Fluid Changes (Oil, Coolant, Brake Fluid, Transmission Fluid), Filter Replacements (Oil, Air, Fuel, Cabin), Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection and Replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Wiring Diagrams, Component Testing Procedures, PCM/ECU Diagnosis
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Overhaul, Brake Component Replacement (Pads, Rotors, Calipers), Suspension Component Replacement (Struts, Bushings, Ball Joints), Steering Gearbox/Rack Replacement, Electrical Component Repair/Replacement
Body And Frame:
Body Panel Repair, Dent Removal, Frame Alignment (if applicable), Glass Replacement, Door Mechanism Adjustment
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance, detailed diagnostics, complete repair and overhaul procedures for all major vehicle systems.
Engine Code Usdm:
L3-VE (2.3L DOHC I4)
Engine Displacement Usdm:
2261 cc (2.3 Liters)
Engine Configuration Usdm:
Inline 4-cylinder, 16-valve, DOHC with S-VT (Variable Valve Timing)
Horsepower Usdm:
160 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)
Torque Usdm:
155 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Engine Code Emea Petrol:
LF-DE (2.0L DOHC I4), LF-VE (2.3L DOHC I4)
Engine Displacement Emea Petrol:
1991 cc (2.0 Liters), 2261 cc (2.3 Liters)
Horsepower Emea Petrol:
120-166 hp (depending on variant)
Engine Code Emea Diesel:
MZR-CD (RF7J) (2.0L DOHC Turbo Diesel I4)
Engine Displacement Emea Diesel:
1998 cc (2.0 Liters)
Horsepower Emea Diesel:
136 hp @ 3500 rpm (approx.)
Torque Emea Diesel:
273 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI/GDI depending on market and engine variant)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Regular/Premium), Diesel (for diesel variants)
Frontal Driver NHTSA:
★★★★★ (5-star)
Frontal Passenger NHTSA:
★★★★★ (5-star)
Side Driver NHTSA:
★★★★☆ (4-star)
Side Rear Passenger NHTSA:
★★★★☆ (4-star)
Side Crash IIHS:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Available Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Airbags:
Front Airbags, Available Side-Curtain Airbags, Available Side Impact Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point ELR seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, MP3 capability, available premium Bose sound system with subwoofer and amplifier.
Navigation:
Optional factory-installed navigation system (typically DVD-based).
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Auxiliary Input:
Available auxiliary audio input jack on some models.
Service Intervals Usdm 2.3L
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. Use synthetic oil.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months. Inspect every 5,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (Long-life Iridium plugs).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 miles for automatic transmission under severe service; 60,000 miles for normal service. Inspect fluid condition regularly.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-20, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified (check owner's manual for specific recommendation). Capacity: Approx. 4.9 US quarts (with filter).
Coolant:
Mazda Genuine Long Life Antifreeze (FL22) or equivalent (Blue/Green, ethylene glycol based). Capacity: Approx. 7.8 US quarts (sedan).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Mazda Genuine ATF-FZ or equivalent. Capacity: Approx. 3.8 US quarts (drain and fill).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil. Capacity: Approx. 2.2 US quarts.
Common Problems:
Rust/corrosion (especially in areas with road salt), oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan, occasional transmission issues (e.g., harsh shifting in automatics), suspension component wear (bushings, ball joints), HVAC blower motor resistor failure.
Mazda Philosophy:
Mazda's reputation for building reliable and enjoyable-to-drive vehicles, often with a focus on sporty handling.
First Generation Launch:
Introduced for the 2002 model year, replacing the Mazda Capella/626.
Facelift Timing:
Received a significant facelift for the 2005 model year, with updated styling, interior refinements, and powertrain enhancements.
Production Locations:
Hofu Plant, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan; Flat Rock, Michigan, USA (for North American market initially)
Production Years:
2002-2008
Car Of The Year:
Car of the Year awards in various publications in different markets.
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Many models received 'Good' ratings from IIHS for crashworthiness, contributing to a strong safety image.
Desempeño Manejo:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its engaging handling and driving dynamics, setting it apart in its class.
