Usp:
Known for its sporty handling, stylish design, and reliable powertrain options in its class.
Key Competitors:
Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, Ford Fusion, Chevrolet Malibu
Design Philosophy:
Mazda's 'Nagare' design language influences, though subtle in this generation.
Driving Dynamics:
Focus on 'Jinba-Ittai' (horse and rider as one) driving feel, responsive steering, and balanced chassis.
Engine:
Comprehensive engine diagnostics, overhaul, timing, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, emissions control
Transmission:
Automatic and manual transmission service, repair, diagnostics, fluid specifications, torque converter, clutch, gears
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) system, CV joints, drive axles, differential, wheel bearings
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS, EBD, DSC, brake pads, rotors, calipers, lines, master cylinder, bleeding procedures
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, pump, fluid, alignment specifications
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, springs, control arms, bushings, wheel alignment
Electrical System:
12V battery system, charging system, starter, lighting, body control modules, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system service, refrigerant, compressor, blower motor, controls
Body And Trim:
Interior and exterior trim removal/installation, doors, windows, hood, trunk, seals
Body Structure:
Frame, chassis, collision repair information, structural integrity
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS), seatbelt pretensioners, diagnostics and replacement
Infotainment And Electronics:
Audio system, navigation (if equipped), instrument cluster, control modules
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt replacement, brake fluid flush
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting, fault code interpretation
Repair:
Component removal and installation, engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, sensor testing, actuator testing, circuit testing
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of required special tools for specific repair procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers basic maintenance to complex engine and transmission overhauls. Aimed at professional technicians but accessible to advanced DIYers.
Engine Code:
LF-VE (2.0L) and LF-N (2.3L)
Displacement:
1998 cc (2.0L) and 2261 cc (2.3L)
Configuration:
Inline-4 cylinder, DOHC, 16 valves, VVT (Variable Valve Timing)
Horsepower 2.0L:
Approx. 148-156 hp @ 6000-6200 rpm
Torque 2.0L:
Approx. 135-145 lb-ft @ 4000-4500 rpm
Horsepower 2.3L:
Approx. 160-171 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque 2.3L:
Approx. 150-155 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Fuel Octane Rating:
87 octane (minimum), 89 or higher recommended for optimal performance
Length:
Approx. 186.8 inches (4745 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.1 inches (1780 mm)
Height:
Approx. 57.9 inches (1470 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 107.9 inches (2740 mm)
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 100.7 cu ft (2851 L)
Trunk Capacity:
Approx. 14.2 cu ft (402 L)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3100-3300 lbs (1406-1497 kg) depending on trim and engine
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4400-4500 lbs (1996-2041 kg)
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
5-Star (for driver and passenger)
NHTSA Side Crash Rating:
5-Star (for front and rear passengers)
IIHS Front Crash Rating:
Good
IIHS Side Crash Rating:
Good
IIHS Rear Crash Rating:
Good
Traction Control:
Standard (TCS - Traction Control System)
Stability Control:
Standard (DSC - Dynamic Stability Control)
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Ebd:
Standard (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags (front and rear)
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners, load limiters
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Iridium spark plugs: Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km)
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified (or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change for 2.0L and 2.3L engines
Coolant Type:
Mazda Genuine Super Long Life Coolant (FL22) or equivalent (blue color)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.0 US quarts (6.6 liters)
Common Problem 1:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket.
Common Problem 2:
Premature wear of front control arm bushings, leading to clunking noises.
Common Problem 3:
Power steering pump or rack leaks.
Common Problem 4:
Corrosion on chassis components, especially in rust-prone climates.
Common Problem 5:
HVAC blower motor resistor failure leading to intermittent fan speeds.
Mazda Philosophy:
Mazda's commitment to driving pleasure and innovative engineering.
Generation:
Second Generation (2003-2008 in most markets, some markets extended to 2009)
Design Changes From Prev Gen:
More aerodynamic styling, improved interior quality, larger dimensions.
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan (Hofu Plant), North America (AutoAlliance International, Flat Rock, Michigan)
Production Years:
2007 model year
