Segment:
Compact MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) / Minivan
Target Audience:
Families and individuals seeking versatile, fuel-efficient, and practical transportation with a focus on utility and maneuverability.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Sienna (though generally larger), Honda Odyssey (though generally larger), Chrysler Pacifica (though generally larger), Kia Sedona (though generally larger).
Unique Selling Proposition:
Compact size and agile handling for its class, sliding rear doors for practicality, often praised for driving dynamics.
Doors:
Four-door configuration with two sliding rear doors for enhanced passenger access.
Seating:
Available in 6 or 7-passenger configurations with flexible seating arrangements.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasizes Mazda's 'Zoom-Zoom' driving spirit within a practical family vehicle format.
Engine:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, emissions, engine control systems (ECM/ECU).
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic Transmission systems, including removal, installation, overhaul, and fluid service.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) system, including drive shafts, CV joints, differential.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, struts, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment.
Brakes:
Brake system components (discs, pads, calipers, master cylinder, lines), ABS, EBD, brake fluid specifications and bleeding procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, alignment.
Electrical:
12V battery system, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant, components, diagnostics, and repair.
Body:
Exterior body panels, doors, windows, locks, latches, hinges, interior trim, seats, safety restraints (airbags, seatbelts).
Chassis Electrical:
Body control module (BCM), power windows, mirrors, sunroof, remote keyless entry, interior/exterior lighting.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes, tire rotation.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major systems, including engine component replacement, transmission rebuilds, brake overhauls, suspension repairs.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical system diagnostics.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) information, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures for various systems.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, electrical component specifications.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic scheduled maintenance to complex component overhauls and advanced diagnostics.
Rebuilds:
Includes procedures for complete engine and transmission rebuilds, if applicable to the original factory manual content.
Diagnostics Level:
Advanced, covering sensor data, actuator testing, and module programming considerations.
Engine Code:
LF-DE (2.3L MZR)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Displacement:
2.3 Liters (2261 cc)
Horsepower:
Approximately 157-160 hp @ 5,800-6,000 rpm (depending on model year and market)
Torque:
Approximately 170-175 lb-ft @ 4,000-4,500 rpm (depending on model year and market)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (recommended)
Emissions Control:
Catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, EGR system (where applicable)
Length:
Approximately 174.9 inches (4443 mm)
Width:
Approximately 69.1 inches (1755 mm)
Height:
Approximately 63.8 inches (1620 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 104.0 inches (2642 mm)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approximately 15.0 cubic feet (425 liters)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approximately 43.7 cubic feet (1237 liters)
Cargo Volume With All Seats Folded:
Approximately 83.6 cubic feet (2367 liters)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3,300 - 3,500 lbs (1497 - 1588 kg), depending on configuration.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Typically around 4,600 lbs (2087 kg)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5 Stars (for 2006 model, consult manual for specific year ratings)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5 Stars (for 2006 model, consult manual for specific year ratings)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
5 Stars (for 2006 model, consult manual for specific year ratings)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
5 Stars (for 2006 model, consult manual for specific year ratings)
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4 Stars (for 2006 model, consult manual for specific year ratings)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Ebd:
Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS) on some trims.
Stability Control:
Available Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) on some later models.
Airbags:
Front, front side-impact, and available side-curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters for all seating positions.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Severe driving conditions may require more frequent changes (consult manual).
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs. Consult manual for exact type and interval.
Coolant Flush:
Initial replacement at 100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 5 years thereafter.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20 synthetic or synthetic blend (API SN or ILSAC GF-5 compliant). Consult manual for exact specification.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.7 US quarts (4.4 liters) with filter change.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (consult manual for specific recommendation).
Power Steering Fluid:
Mazda Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III/Mercon ATF (consult manual).
Rusting:
Can be susceptible to rust, particularly in areas with road salt. Regular washing and undercoating are recommended.
Transmission Issues:
Some models have reported sporadic automatic transmission hesitation or hard shifting. Fluid changes and software updates may address this.
Engine Mounts:
Worn engine mounts can lead to increased vibration. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Rear Suspension Noise:
Occasionally, rear suspension components like bushings or sway bar links can develop noise. Manual provides diagnostic steps.