2002 Mazda Millenia S - Last Chance for this Upscale Mazda
It's true. After eight years the upscale quality Mazda Millenia is being discontinued. I suppose it was inevitable. After all, it was never designed to be a Mazda at all. The Millenia was created with the intent of going head to head with Lexus and Infiniti as an Amati, Mazda's aborted premium brand. It makes sense that the Japanese brand wouldn't want to spend the money needed for its costly replacement being that they were only able to sell 19,849 of them in 2001?
With all due respect to other models in the zoom-zoom tribe the Millenia is by far its best creation from the perspective of build quality, materials and fit and finish. That makes it an excellent buy on the used market as well. Still, according to Mazda Canada there are a few new ones left for discriminating buyers.
What can you expect? Seamless welds, superb panel fit, high quality interior materials and excellent fit and finish. Also, true to Mazda tradition the Millenia incorporates pioneering technology under the hood. A Miller Cycle engine puts out an impressive 210-hp and 210 lb-ft of torque from as low as 3,500 rpm, resulting in an 8.2 second sprint to 100 km/h. Miller Cycle? The engine uses a Lysholm compressor and delayed intake valve timing to produce big performance from its diminutive 2.3-L displacement. A smooth and responsive 4-speed automatic transmission with a button actuated gear holder is standard. Fuel economy is the obvious benefactor with the Millenia achieving 12.2 / 8.0 L/100km (city/hwy). That's fairly impressive for such a substantial car - it weighs in at 1,582 kg (3,488 lb).
