I had a 1995 Millenia S in Merlot Mica, sporting the tan interior, and with 78,000 miles.  While looking for a car, I searched for something stylish and dependable.  Bad experiences with my previous cars put dependability tops on my list, but I also wanted some of the extras that I could afford by buying a used car.  Unfortunately, the Millenia proved that not all Japanese cars are dependable.

As I looked more into it, I found that the unassuming Mazda offers more than one would expect.  The standard equipment list surpassed competing loaded models.  The engine is powerful, yet frugal.  The exterior: simple, yet classy.  Each time my friends rode with me, they were impressed by the quiet engine.  People are surprised to discover that it is a Mazda (more in the History Section). 

On the outside, quad projector lamps create an aggressive look.  Diffraction gratings on the 16-inch aluminum rims create a multi-faceted effect while spinning.  A varying chrome surround, encompassing the entire length of the windows, compliments the wheels and the grille perfectly.  One of my favorite styling idiosyncrasies is the bulge integrated into the trunk lid.  Mazda says that this styling element improves the aerodynamic drag coefficient and high-speed stability.

Step in, close the door, and slip the key in.  The leather-wrapped steering wheel quietly maneuvers down to your set position.  For those long or short drives, the harmonious sound quality of the BOSE stereo system will tempt you to boost the volume.  Similar to a personal pod, the sweeping dash positions everything within easy reach of the driver.  The climate controls are perched upon its own little module, and adjusting the temperature merely takes turn of the wrist.  Mazda's strategically-placed sensors keep track of variables such as the intensity of the sun and the temperature of the ambient air to insure a comfortable environment.  Of course, a full range of amenities are available to make traveling more pleasant...damn, that sure sounded like a brochure.