Upscale Japanese luxury sedans began to proliferate across the landscape in the early 1990s, with newly hatched premium brands like Toyota's Lexus and Nissan's Infiniti born to do battle against more established European and American rivals. In such a thriving marketplace, even Mazda planned to get in on the aspirational act with a proposed premium division called Amati. This idea proved a little too rich for the company's pocketbook, however, and the idea was scrapped. But all was not lost, for the junior of two planned Amati sedans came to life as the midsize entry-luxury Mazda Millenia (spelled incorrectly on purpose), which was introduced in 1995 as the company's flagship replacement for the outgoing 929.
A single-generation model produced for eight years, the Mazda Millenia near-luxury sedan was an acceptable but second-tier effort plagued by a lack of upscale presence and a mild case of schizophrenia. While its styling and higher content level qualified it for the entry-luxury market, the Millenia's execution and cachet just couldn't match the competition -- especially considering its $30,000-plus price tag on top-drawer Millenia S models. Available two-tone paint and snazzy (for the time) jelly bean styling added a touch of class to its sporty midsize silhouette, but some low-grade plastic trim and cheap-feeling switchgear soiled the luxury experience. Seating up front was comfortable and well-contoured, but rear passengers suffered from a lack of thigh support and foot space.
This lack of commitment continued on the road, where the Millenia couldn't decide whether it wanted to be a sport sedan or luxury cruiser. Base models came standard with a rather pedestrian 170-horsepower 2.5-liter V6, while those who followed Mazda's suggestion to "get in, be moved" would certainly prefer the more powerful Millenia S. This model featured a 210-hp 2.3-liter "Miller Cycle" V6 engine, a unique power plant that featured a belt-driven supercharger to boost power and torque. It was refined and smooth, but it lacked the low-end response one might expect when opting for an entry-level luxury sedan. Handling was also a mixed bag, with well-controlled body roll through smooth curves, but inadequate damping over rough surfaces. The Millenia's earlier speed-sensing steering assist didn't help matters, as it was touchy and required a fair amount of correction.
Looking past its weaker points and lack of focus, there was more to like about later models. The Millenia received detail improvements throughout its life cycle, including refinements to its exterior styling and interior design, a stiffer body structure, and upgraded suspension and brakes in its final two years. Used midsize sedan shoppers looking for a dash of luxury and something different could find a later model Mazda Millenia an intriguing choice -- especially the supercharged S. Others looking for a luxury-branded used vehicle that's also more complete and finished to a higher standard should consider a previously owned Acura TL, Audi A4 or Lexus ES 300.
Most Recent Mazda Millenia
The Mazda Millenia was produced from 1995-2002. As it was originally intended to be a luxury-branded car rather than a typical Mazda, it featured upscale leather, wood and chrome appointments inside, along with higher-quality paint and better overall fit and finish. Two trim levels were available: base (with or without leather) and S. While they all included a four-speed automatic (manual transmissions were not available), the top-drawer S model upped the ante and interest level with a distinctive and more responsive Miller Cycle supercharged V6 along with traction control and larger tires.
Changes were few over its lone generation. Equipment was upgraded for 1997 and a revised center console design arrived. Two-tone color schemes and a styling refresh showed up for 1999. The following year, the Millenia celebrated the millennium by cutting prices and offering a special-edition model. Available in two eye-catching colors, the Millennium Millenia featured 17-inch wheels, an in-dash six-CD changer and suede upholstery.
The most significant changes occurred for 2001 when Mazda strengthened the Millenia's body structure to improve torsional rigidity, while adding new stabilizer bars (for better handling) and bigger brakes. That year also saw exterior styling tweaked and the interior upgraded. Side airbags were also made standard. Because of these improvements, we'd suggest the '01 and '02 Millenias (the final model years) as the best choices.
http://www.edmunds.com/mazda/millenia/review.html
