Once Around the Block

The Millenia is here, and it is a Mazda

By Steven D. Gatt, Automotive Editor

The Millenia is a high class compact luxury sedan with few drawbacks. Only the price and rear seat comfort keep this from being a world-class luxury sedan. It competes in the entry-level luxury division; other vehicles in this group include the Lexus ES300, Cadillac Catera, Mercedes-Benz C Class.

The powertrain is smooth even at excessive speeds. The driver is melodious flooded with the wonderful sounds of the engine and whoosh of the supercharger. Throttle response is excellent. What would normally be luxurious ride is somewhat sacrificed to the handling department; it tends to be more of a luxurious performance sedan than anything else. The power comes from a 2.3L, Miller-Cycle, V6 engine with 210 horsepower; it is mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission.

The interior for the front passengers is very nice, rear seat passengers are cramped in legroom and hip space. The seats are full-leather; front seats are heated and feature 8-way power. The door armrest flips open to provide lockable storage space instead of the normal door pockets. While convenient they are deep, removing items from these pockets is a difficult task.

Dual airbags, anti-lock brakes and traction control are three safety features standard on the Millenia. The Millenia also has, as standard content, keyless entry, factory alarm system, in-dash CD player and cruise control. The steering wheel, windows, locks, mirrors and moonroof all are power.

The only change for 1997 is headlamps; the new clear lens reflector headlights provide more and brighter light for better visibility. The Millenia S had only one option available; the 4-seasons package was on the evaluated car. It includes a heavy-duty windshield wiper motor, heavy-duty battery, large capacity windshield-washer tank, monitor for washer fluid, and the heated front seats. The total price as tested was $37,345 including $450 in destination charge and $300 option package. I achieved 23 mpg during the week I had the Millenia. Your mileage may vary between 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway according to the EPA.

Frankly, the backseat is too small and the sticker price is just too high, otherwise the Mazda Millenia is an excellent car.

Coming soon: Mercedes-Benz E420, Editorial on State of the Industry and a Special Feature about the Chicago Auto Show.