Mazda’s Millenia: A Surprisingly Luxurious Bargain
In the vast landscape of used luxury sedans, where depreciation is a significant factor, there are often incredible deals to be found. While brands like Maserati and Alfa Romeo can be appealing, they can also be daunting. Opting for a reliable Japanese alternative like a Lexus or Infiniti is a great choice. However, Mazda also entered the luxury car market in the late 1990s and early 2000s, and its underrated sedan, the Millenia, has become a bargain in the used market.
This article delves into the Mazda Millenia, examining what makes it a compelling choice for those seeking a luxury sedan at a reasonable price. All the technical and pricing details were sourced from reliable providers, including the manufacturer and consumer websites.
Mazda’s Attempt to Enter the Luxury Market
Before the Millenia, Mazda was a brand known for its affordable and functional vehicles, generally staying clear of the luxury segment. However, with the new luxury brands founded by Toyota, Honda, and Nissan (Lexus, Acura, and Infiniti, respectively) making a splash in the late 1980s, Mazda wanted a piece of the action.
The Millenia was developed to replace the aging 929, which had been a part of Mazda’s lineup for almost two decades.
The Millenia’s Original Identity: Amati
Initially, Mazda planned to launch a luxury offshoot brand called Amati, which was announced in 1991. The brand was supposed to sell a model called the 500. This car was to surpass the level of luxury offered by the Mazda 929. However, the 1992 financial crisis in Japan forced Mazda to cancel the Amati project. Instead of abandoning the vehicle entirely, Mazda decided to offer it under the existing brand, renaming it the Millenia. It went on sale in 1993.
Unfortunately, poor sales led to its discontinuation in 2002.
Engine Choices: A Powerful V6
As the flagship model, the Millenia, also known as the Xedos 9 in some markets, came equipped with a powerful V6 engine. While some markets offered 2.0- and 2.5-liter units, the US version exclusively featured a supercharged 2.3-liter V6. This engine produced 210 horsepower.
The Millenia, unlike many performance cars, used Miller Cycle technology. This method used an altered combustion cycle characterized by the intake valve closing or opening earlier or later, with the reduction in power compensated for by a supercharger. This combustion method improved fuel efficiency with little power loss.
Power was delivered to the front wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission.
Advanced Suspension for a Smooth Ride
Mazda’s engineers equipped the Millenia with an advanced suspension setup designed to handle the imperfections of public roads. The car had a multi-link suspension system both front and rear, with a front stabilizer bar for responsiveness and control. This helped to reduce body roll, enhancing passenger comfort.
It also featured a disc braking system on all four wheels with ABS. While ABS is standard today, it was an exciting development for the 1990s.
A Great Value in the Used Market
Although older models are good deals too, a final-year 2002 Millenia can be found for around $2,500. There were two trim levels available: the standard version and the S. Given it came with more features as standard, the S is considered the better buy.
Considering how modern and stylish these cars are, and that it underwent a redesign in 2001, the Millenia is a good consideration for those looking for a slightly different luxury vehicle.
Reliability You Can Depend On
The Millenia has proven to be a dependable luxury car. Based on 253 owner reviews posted on Kelley Blue Book, the Millenia achieved a strong average reliability score of 4.4 out of five stars. RepairPal estimates that yearly maintenance will cost around $396.
Common issues include misfires caused by leaking valve cover gaskets and oil consumption stemming from leaking supercharger seals. Make sure there’s no blue smoke coming from the car’s exhaust, as this indicates a leaking supercharger.
A Well-Equipped Luxury Car
Drivers who choose a Millenia will also be treated to good features. The S variant boasts a power moonroof, heated leather seats and steering wheel, and a nine-speaker Bose audio system.
It has an automatic climate control system, a power steering column, and a remote trunk release.
Ultimately, the Millenia might not be as well-known or prestigious as some of its rivals, but for less than $3,000, it’s hard to go wrong, especially when considering its awesome supercharged V6.
