Positioning:
The Mazda Millenia was positioned as a premium, near-luxury sedan, offering a blend of sporty driving dynamics and refined comfort. It aimed to compete with established luxury brands by providing sophisticated technology and styling.
Competitors:
Key competitors included the Acura Legend, Lexus ES 300, Infiniti J30, and domestic premium sedans like the Buick Park Avenue. The Millenia stood out with its innovative Miller-cycle engine and distinctive Kodo design language.
Unique Selling Points:
The primary feature was the optional supercharged 2.5L Miller-cycle V6 engine, which offered a unique combination of good low-end torque and improved fuel efficiency for its displacement. The car also boasted a sophisticated suspension system and a well-appointed interior.
Engine:
2.5L V6 DOHC (Miller Cycle - Miller-cycle supercharged)
Engine Management:
EC-VT electronic control variable timing, EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection), engine diagnostics, sensor testing, actuators
Transmission:
4-speed automatic transmission (430LE)
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD), drive axles, CV joints, differential
Suspension:
Front strut suspension, rear multi-link suspension, alignment specifications
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), hydraulic system, bleeding procedures
Steering:
Power assisted rack and pinion steering, steering column, wheel alignment
Body And Frame:
Body panel removal and installation, frame straightening, rust repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement
Electrical System:
12V battery system, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, diagnostic connectors
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, refrigerant handling, compressor, blower motor, climate control panel
Interior Trim:
Seat removal, dashboard disassembly, interior panel replacement, airbag system caution
Emissions Control:
Catalytic converter, EGR system, evaporative emission control system (EVAP)
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt adjustments
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, fault code interpretation, component testing
Repair:
Component removal and installation, rebuilding procedures, specific repair techniques
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearances, fluid capacities, pressure readings
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to major component overhauls and advanced diagnostics. Designed for dealership technicians.
File Format:
Not applicable for printed manual
Print Quality:
High quality, factory standard printing with clear diagrams and text
Binding Type:
Typically spiral-bound or perfect-bound for ease of use and durability in a workshop environment
Paper Type:
Durable, high-quality paper stock designed for workshop use
Engine Code:
KL-DE (Naturally Aspirated), KJ-ZEM (Supercharged Miller-cycle)
Engine Configuration:
2.5L V6, DOHC 24-valve
Naturally Aspirated Hp:
170 hp @ 6000 rpm
Naturally Aspirated Torque:
155 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Supercharged Hp:
211 hp @ 5300 rpm (KJ-ZEM)
Supercharged Torque:
217 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (KJ-ZEM)
Compression Ratio Kl De:
9.2:1
Compression Ratio Kj Zem:
8.5:1 (with Atkinson cycle effect)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential multi-port electronic fuel injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (minimum) for KL-DE, 91 octane recommended for KJ-ZEM
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4/5 Stars (1995 ratings were often less granular than today)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4/5 Stars (1995 ratings were often less granular than today)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available on some models
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seat belts, pretensioners for front seats
Child Safety:
Rear door child safety locks
Audio System:
Premium Bose audio system with CD player or cassette deck, typically 6 speakers
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control with digital display on higher trims
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system
Keyless Entry:
Available on certain trim levels
Phone Integration:
No factory integration for mobile phones; aftermarket solutions available
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement Kl De:
Every 60,000 miles
Spark Plug Replacement Kj Zem:
Every 30,000 miles (specific plugs for supercharged engine)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Coolant Replacement:
Every 45,000 miles or 3 years
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for climate specific recommendations)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Mazda Genuine Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Mazda Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron II/III ATF
Miller Cycle Issues:
Early models and some supercharged engines can experience issues with the supercharger belt, intercooler leaks, or carbon buildup in the combustion chambers due to the unique engine cycle. The crank angle sensor can also be a failure point.
Transmission Issues:
Some automatic transmissions may develop harsh shifting or slipping over time, potentially due to worn solenoids or valve body issues. Regular fluid changes are critical.
Suspension Wear:
Front suspension components like ball joints and bushings can wear, leading to knocking noises and alignment issues. Rear struts may also lose damping over time.
Electrical Gremlins:
As with many vehicles of this era, minor electrical issues like faulty window regulators, power seat motors, or intermittent warning lights can occur. Corroded grounds are a common culprit.
Mazda Focus:
Mazda has a history of producing driver-focused vehicles, often incorporating innovative technology and unique styling, such as the rotary engine.
Generation Details:
The first-generation Millenia (1995-2002) was based on the Mazda Xedos 6 platform, featuring a sleek, aerodynamic design and a focus on premium appointments. The 1995 model year marked its North American debut.
Manufacturing Location:
Hofu, Yamaguchi, Japan
Production Years:
1992-2002 (Globally), 1995-2002 (North America)
Car And Driver 10 Best:
The Mazda Millenia (specifically the Miller-cycle engine) was featured on Car and Driver's 10Best list in 1995, highlighting its technological innovation and driving refinement.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Consumer Reports typically rated the Millenia average to above average for its class in its early years, with some concerns noted regarding reliability of the supercharged engine and electronic components.
Emisiones Certification:
Meets EPA emission standards for 1995 model year vehicles.