Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Oil Specifications
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
0W-20 Synthetic (check manual for specific regions/conditions)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 5.5 US quarts (5.2 L) with filter
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type Standard:
6-speed Manual Transmission (Mazda Type-II)
Optional
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission with Sport Mode
Features
Manual Transmission Features:
Short-throw shifter, lightweight design
Automatic Transmission Features:
Steering wheel paddle shifters (optional on some trims/markets)
Fluid Specifications
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
Mazda GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., 75W-90, consult manual for specific part numbers)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Mazda ATF-FZ or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
174.6 inches (4,435 mm)
Width:
70.2 inches (1,785 mm)
Height:
53.1 inches (1,348 mm)
Wheelbase:
106.4 inches (2,700 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight Manual:
Approx. 3,000 - 3,050 lbs (1,360 - 1,385 kg)
Curb Weight Automatic:
Approx. 3,050 - 3,100 lbs (1,385 - 1,405 kg)
Cargo
Trunk Capacity:
4.8 cu ft (135 L) - often cited as small due to fuel tank placement
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-Star (for 2003 model year)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-Star (for 2003 model year)
IIHS Small Overlap Front:
N/A (Test not performed on early models)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Passive Features
Airbags Front:
Dual front airbags
Airbags Side:
Front side-impact airbags, Side-impact curtain airbags (in B-pillars)
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Bose premium audio system (optional on some trims), CD player, AM/FM radio.
Navigation:
Optional GPS Navigation system
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard Cruise Control
Keyless Entry:
Standard Keyless Entry and Ignition
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Auxiliary audio input jack (may vary by trim/market)
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (check manual for specific conditions, synthetic oil recommended)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (check manual)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Specific interval for apex seals and plugs; requires specialized knowledge for rotary engines (refer to manual).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles or 2-4 years (check manual)
Fluid Specifications
Coolant Type:
Mazda FL22 Long Life Coolant or equivalent (typically a pink/red OAT coolant)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (check manual)
Known Issues
Rotary Engine Specific:
Premature apex seal wear, carbon buildup in ports, oil consumption (inherent to design, requires monitoring), need for regular decarbonization services, potential for hydro-locking if starting procedures are incorrect.