Front and rear driveshafts, differentials, CV joints, wheel bearings, power transfer unit (AWD).
Suspension:
Front struts/shocks, rear shocks, control arms, bushings, springs, sway bars, wheel alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic), steering rack, tie rods, steering column, power steering fluid.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system, EBD, brake fluid, master cylinder, brake calipers, rotors, pads, parking brake.
Electrical System:
12V battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting, accessories, power windows, power locks, interior/exterior lights.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass, interior trim, chassis components, structural integrity.
Climate Control:
HVAC system, A/C compressor, refrigerant, climate control panel, blower motor, cabin air filter.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, SRS control module, seat belts, pre-tensioners, safety system diagnostics.
Approximately 7.7 US quarts (7.3 liters) for a drain and fill (verify with fill plug/level check).
Shift Modes:
Sport mode, manual shift capability (TouchShift).
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
199.8 inches (5075 mm)
Width:
78.4 inches (1991 mm)
Height:
68.0 inches (1727 mm)
Wheelbase:
113.0 inches (2870 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 8.0 inches (203 mm)
Interior
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 142.9 cu ft
Cargo
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approx. 14.4 cu ft
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approx. 41.0 cu ft
Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:
Approx. 75.1 cu ft
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4,441 - 4,676 lbs (2014 - 2121 kg) depending on drivetrain and options.
Towing Capacity:
Up to 4,500 lbs (2041 kg) when properly equipped with towing package.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 6,017 lbs (2729 kg)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating:
5-Star (for 2012 model year in specific tests)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for models equipped with specific features/testing protocols for its generation)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Brake Assist:
Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, three-row side-curtain airbags with rollover protection.
Seat Belts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters for all seating positions, LATCH system for child seats.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
System Name:
Mazda Connect (or similar predecessor infotainment system)
Display Size:
Typically 5.8-inch or 8-inch touchscreen display depending on trim level.
Features:
AM/FM/Satellite Radio, CD Player, MP3 playback, Auxiliary Audio Input, USB Port, Bluetooth Hands-Free Phone and Audio Streaming.
Driver Assistance
Parking Sensors:
Available rear parking sensors.
Backup Camera:
Available rearview camera.
Blind Spot Monitoring:
Available Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) on higher trims.
Connectivity
Smartphone Integration:
Limited or no direct Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration in this model year; Bluetooth connectivity is primary.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Inspect oil level monthly.
Tire Rotation:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles/48,000 km).
Cabin Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed (typically every 15,000-30,000 miles/24,000-48,000 km depending on driving environment).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km). Mazda does not typically specify a fixed interval for ATF-FZ fluid changes, recommending inspection for condition and level. Many technicians recommend replacement every 60,000-80,000 miles (96,000-128,000 km) under normal use.
Coolant Change:
First change at 10 years or 120,000 miles (192,000 km), then every 5 years or 60,000 miles (96,000 km) thereafter.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically at 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for platinum or iridium plugs.
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 3 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km) as per manufacturer recommendations for preventative maintenance.
Fluid Specifications
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III H Automatic Transmission Fluid or equivalent meeting the specified requirements.
Known Issues
Common Issue 1:
Water pump leaks: Early models or those with high mileage may experience leaks from the water pump seal.
Common Issue 2:
Transmission shifting issues: Occasional reports of rough shifting or delayed engagement, often related to transmission fluid condition or mechatronics.
Common Issue 3:
Intake manifold runner control (IMRC) issues: Can lead to rough idle or check engine lights in some V6 engines (though less common on this specific V6 than some other Ford/Mazda applications of similar era).
Common Issue 4:
A/C system performance: Refrigerant leaks or compressor issues can impact cooling efficiency.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Philosophy:
Mazda's commitment to driving enjoyment ('Jinba Ittai') and innovative engineering.
Model Evolution
First Generation Launch:
Introduced for the 2007 model year, replacing the Mazda MPV minivan. Designed to compete in the growing mid-size SUV market.
Mid Cycle Refresh:
Received a significant refresh for the 2010 model year, including styling updates (front grille, headlights, taillights), interior refinements, and powertrain enhancements. The 2012 model year largely carries over these updates.
Production
Assembly Location:
Hofu, Yamaguchi, Japan
Production Period First Gen:
2007 - 2015
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
IIHS Award:
IIHS Top Safety Pick (for specific model years and testing criteria).
Family SUV Awards:
Often cited in reviews for its driving dynamics and upscale interior compared to some competitors in its class.
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