2.0L (1998cc) Inline-4, 16-valve, DOHC, naturally aspirated (Primarily for Japanese market, some export markets)
Displacement 2:
2.0 Liters
Horsepower 2:
160 hp @ 6500 rpm (approx.)
Torque 2:
133 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (approx.)
Fuel System
Fuel Induction:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium recommended for KL-DE)
Lubrication System
Oil Capacity Kl:
4.8 US quarts (4.5 Liters) with filter change (approx.)
Oil Type Kl:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended (refer to manual for exact specifications)
Cooling System
Coolant Capacity:
7.8 US quarts (7.4 Liters) with engine block heater (approx.)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type Kl:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Optional
Transmission Type Kl Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
Features Kl
Transmission Gear Ratios:
Refer to manual for specific gear ratios (vary by transmission)
Automatic Transmission Control:
Electronically controlled
Fluid Specifications
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil (refer to manual)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mazda ATF J (or equivalent DEXRON III compatible fluid)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
182.7 inches (4640 mm)
Width:
69.1 inches (1755 mm)
Height:
51.6 inches (1311 mm)
Wheelbase:
104.7 inches (2659 mm)
Front Track:
59.1 inches (1500 mm)
Rear Track:
58.5 inches (1485 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3100 - 3300 lbs (1406 - 1497 kg) depending on configuration
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle placard
Towing Capacity:
Not recommended/specified by manufacturer
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
Approximately 10.0 cu ft (0.28 m³)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-star (driver), 4-star (passenger) for 1994 model (typical for the era, consult specific year data)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (typical for the era, consult specific year data)
Active Features
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (optional on some models)
Traction Control:
Not typically available
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags standard from 1995 onwards
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts, driver and front passenger pretensioners (from 1995)
Crumple Zones:
Designed with front and rear crumple zones for energy absorption
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette stereo, optional CD player. Basic controls, often requires aftermarket upgrade for modern features.
Speakers:
Typically 4-6 speaker configuration.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control (depending on trim).
Connectivity
Bluetooth:
Not available (requires aftermarket installation)
Usb Ports:
Not available (requires aftermarket installation)
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact recommendation)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard plugs, longer for iridium/platinum (check manual)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial! Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4-5 years for the KL-DE V6. Failure results in severe engine damage (interference engine).
Coolant Flush:
Every 24,000 miles (38,000 km) or 2 years
Fluid Specifications
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron II or equivalent ATF (refer to manual)
Known Issues
Engine Mounts:
Wear and tear leading to vibration and engine movement, especially on V6 models.
Automatic Transmission:
Potential for harsh shifting or delayed engagement due to internal wear or solenoid issues.
Suspension Bushings:
Degradation over time can lead to clunking noises and compromised handling.
Rear Spoiler Wiper:
Common failure of the rear wiper motor and switch (if equipped).
Window Regulators:
Power window mechanisms can become slow or fail.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mazda Brand Philosophy:
Mazda's commitment to Zoom-Zoom driving dynamics and driver engagement.
Model Evolution
Previous Generation:
First generation Mazda MX-6 (1987–1991), based on the Mazda Capella/Ford Probe platform.
Platform Sharing:
Second generation MX-6 (GE) shared its platform with the Mazda Capella, Mazda Cronos, and the Ford Probe (second generation).
Design Philosophy:
A sleek, sporty coupe with a focus on aerodynamic design and a premium interior for its class.
Production
Production Period:
1991-1997 (Second Generation)
Manufacturing Location:
Hofu, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan
Market Segment:
Mid-size sporty coupe / Grand Tourer
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Journal Awards:
Often praised for its styling and performance in period reviews, though specific major awards are not widely publicized.
Ratings
Consumer Reports:
Variable ratings across model years; typically competent but with some reliability concerns common to vehicles of this era. Detailed historical ratings would require specific search.
Certifications
Emissions Compliance:
Meets relevant US EPA and California ARB emissions standards for its model years. Manual details specific procedures for emissions system service.