Segment:
Subcompact/Compact Sport Coupe
Target Audience:
Younger buyers, enthusiasts seeking a stylish and engaging driving experience.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic Coupe, Toyota Celica, Mitsubishi Eclipse, Nissan 200SX (S13), Ford Probe.
Design:
Distinctive 'Kammback' or 'Kamm-tail' aerodynamic design, frameless door glass, sporty styling.
Engine Offering:
Known for its unique 1.8L V6 engine in higher trims, offering a smooth and refined power delivery for its class.
Handling:
Praised for its agile handling and sporty driving dynamics, contributing to its enthusiast appeal.
Diy Repair:
Enables owners to perform their own maintenance and repairs, saving significant costs and empowering them with vehicle knowledge.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair of engine components (block, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valvetrain).
Engine Management:
Ignition system, fuel injection system, emissions control systems, sensor diagnostics, ECU operation.
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox disassembly/assembly, gear shift mechanisms, internal components.
Transmission Automatic:
Torque converter, valve body, planetary gear sets, hydraulic controls, shift control, diagnostics.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, CV joints, drive axles, differential.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Steering rack, power steering system (pump, lines, reservoir), steering column, steering wheel.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), hydraulic components, ABS system (if equipped), parking brake.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), lighting, accessories, fuses, relays.
Body And Frame:
Body panel removal/installation, chassis structure, doors, windows, glass, seals, bumpers.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heating system, ventilation, blower motor, controls, refrigerant handling.
Interior:
Dashboard, seats, upholstery, trim panels, seat belts.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting procedures for common problems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation for all major systems.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle circuits.
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, engine data.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostics and component-level repairs.
Engine Code Common:
BP (1.8L Inline-4), KF-DE (1.8L V6)
Displacement Inline4:
1.8 Liters (1839 cc)
Displacement V6:
1.8 Liters (1845 cc)
Configuration Inline4:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16 valves
Configuration V6:
V6, DOHC, 24 valves
Horsepower Inline4:
Approximately 122-128 hp @ 6000 rpm (depending on market/spec)
Torque Inline4:
Approximately 109-114 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (depending on market/spec)
Horsepower V6:
Approximately 128-135 hp @ 6500 rpm (depending on market/spec)
Torque V6:
Approximately 113-118 lb-ft @ 5500 rpm (depending on market/spec)
Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Recommended Octane:
87 Octane (Regular Unleaded), though higher octane may be recommended for optimal performance with the V6.
Type Inline4:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Type V6:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Type Inline4 Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
Type V6 Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mazda ATF M-III (or equivalent Dexron III)
Length:
Approx. 166.7 inches (4235 mm)
Width:
Approx. 67.1 inches (1705 mm)
Height:
Approx. 51.4 inches (1305 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 98.2 inches (2495 mm)
Curb Weight Inline4 Manual:
Approx. 2500 - 2600 lbs (1134 - 1179 kg)
Curb Weight V6 Manual:
Approx. 2750 - 2850 lbs (1247 - 1293 kg)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4x100
Standard Tire Size Inline4:
185/65R14
Optional Tire Size V6:
195/55R15 or 205/50R15
Engine Oil Change:
Every 3,750 - 5,000 miles (6,000 - 8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Engine Oil Filter:
Replace with every oil change.
Spark Plugs:
Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km); replace as needed. Typically platinum-tipped plugs.
Fuel Filter:
Replace every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km).
Timing Belt:
Crucial: Replace every 60,000 - 90,000 miles (96,000 - 144,000 km) or 5-7 years. This is an interference engine, so belt failure can cause severe engine damage.
Engine Oil:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity recommendations based on climate).
Coolant:
Mazda genuine long-life coolant (blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitors. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mazda Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron II/III ATF.
Timing Belt Wear:
Critical to follow replacement schedule to avoid catastrophic engine failure due to belt breakage.
Engine Oil Leaks:
Can develop leaks from valve cover gaskets or oil pan gaskets over time.
Exhaust Manifold Cracks:
Some models experienced exhaust manifold cracking, especially the V6.
Cv Joint Wear:
Front CV joints can wear out, leading to clicking noises during turns.
Suspension Bushings:
Rubber suspension bushings can degrade over time, affecting ride and handling.