Synthetic (Refer to manual for specific viscosity grade, typically 5W-30 or 0W-20)
Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter change (approximate)
Coolant Type:
Long-life antifreeze/coolant (OAT or HOAT, Mazda specific recommended)
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 7.5 US quarts (7.1 L)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
6-speed Manual Transmission (Mazda 'Aisin' or Mazda's own gearbox)
Optional
Transmission Type:
6-speed Sport Mode Automatic Transmission (with paddle shifters on some trims)
Features
Manual Gear Ratios:
Refer to manual for specific ratios (e.g., 1st: ~3.76, 2nd: ~2.00, 3rd: ~1.33, 4th: ~1.00, 5th: ~0.85, 6th: ~0.73)
Automatic Features:
Steering wheel paddle shifters, sport mode, manual shifting capability
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Mazda GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (check manual for specific API rating and viscosity)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mazda ATF JWS3309 / Type T-IV (check manual for exact specification)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
175.6 inches (4460 mm)
Width:
69.5 inches (1765 mm)
Height:
53.0 inches (1345 mm)
Wheelbase:
106.4 inches (2700 mm)
Front Track:
59.5 inches (1510 mm)
Rear Track:
59.3 inches (1505 mm)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)
Weights
Curb Weight Manual:
Approx. 3000-3100 lbs (1360-1405 kg) depending on trim
Curb Weight Automatic:
Approx. 3050-3150 lbs (1383-1429 kg) depending on trim
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 3850 lbs (1746 kg)
Cargo
Cargo Volume:
4.8 cu ft (136 L)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
5 Stars (driver and passenger)
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Good (for applicable years)
IIHS Roof Strength Rating:
Acceptable (for applicable years)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Standard (TCS)
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) - Standard
Brake Assist:
Standard (EBD - Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front airbags, side airbags, curtain airbags (side-impact airbags for front passengers)
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load limiters
Srs System:
Supplemental Restraint System for airbags
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Head Unit:
Bose premium audio system (optional), multi-function display, CD player
Navigation:
Optional GPS Navigation System
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard
Keyless Entry:
Standard (with push-button start on many models)
Connectivity
Bluetooth:
Available on later models or as an aftermarket addition
Auxiliary Input:
Standard on most models
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic recommended)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on conditions
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) (specific rotary spark plugs)
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years
Brake Fluid Flush Interval:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Viscosity:
5W-30 or 0W-20 (check manual for exact specification and driving conditions)
Transmission Oil Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (e.g., Mobil 1 Synthetic Gear Lube LS 75W-90)
Transmission Oil Automatic:
Mazda ATF JWS3309 / Type T-IV
Differential Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (e.g., Mobil 1 Synthetic Gear Lube LS 75W-90)
Coolant:
Mazda FL22 Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent HOAT/OAT)
Known Issues
Apex Seals:
Wear and failure of apex seals is a significant concern for rotary engines, often related to oil consumption, carbon buildup, and detonation. Proper maintenance and occasional 'decarbonizing' are crucial.
Oil Consumption:
Rotary engines inherently consume oil as part of their lubrication system. However, excessive consumption can indicate seal wear or other issues.
Ignition System:
Coil packs and spark plugs can be a point of failure, impacting engine performance and misfires.
Fuel Pump Failure:
Some reports of premature fuel pump failure.
Water Pump Leaks:
Potential for coolant leaks from the water pump seal.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mazda Rotary History:
Mazda's long and distinctive history with the Wankel rotary engine, dating back to the Cosmo Sport.
Model Evolution
Predecessor:
Mazda RX-7 (FD generation)
Introduction Year:
2003 North American debut, 2002 Japan debut
Design Philosophy:
Four-door sports coupe, four-seat sports car with practicality
Facelifts Updates:
Minor updates for 2006 (e.g., engine power bump, suspension tweaks, cosmetic changes) and 2009 (e.g., revised styling, updated interior, engine power reduction in later years)
Production
Production Period:
2003-2012
Manufacturing Location:
Mazda's Hofu Plant, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10Best:
Named to Car and Driver's 10Best lists for 2004 and 2005
World Car Of The Year:
Nominated for World Performance Car of the Year
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