The Mazda Lantis, known as the Mazda 5 in some export markets, was a front-wheel drive compact sedan produced by Mazda from 1993 to 1996. Representing a departure from Mazda’s more traditionally styled offerings, the Lantis (chassis code CBA8P) featured a sleek, aerodynamic design influenced by the Italian design house, I.DE.A Institute. The 2.0i V6 24V variant, producing 170 horsepower, was positioned as the premium offering within the Lantis lineup, aimed at buyers seeking a more refined and powerful driving experience. It was primarily sold in Japan and Europe, and represented Mazda’s attempt to compete with established players in the compact sedan segment like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mazda |
| Model | Lantis |
| Generation | Lantis (CBA8P) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0i V6 24V (170 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1993 |
| End of production | 1996 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12 l/100 km (19.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 7000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 85.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 180 Nm @ 5500 rpm (132.76 lb.-ft. @ 5500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1995 cm3 (121.74 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 78 mm (3.07 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 69.6 mm (2.74 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4490 mm (176.77 in.) |
| Width | 1695 mm (66.73 in.) |
| Height | 1355 mm (53.35 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2605 mm (102.56 in.) |
| Front track | 1465 mm (57.68 in.) |
| Rear track | 1465 mm (57.68 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/50 R16 87 V |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 ET 45 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Lantis 2.0i V6 was the Mazda J5-DE engine, a 1995cc, 24-valve, naturally aspirated V6. This engine utilized a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain and multi-port fuel injection to deliver a respectable 170 horsepower at 7000 rpm and 180 Nm (132.76 lb-ft) of torque at 5500 rpm. The engine’s 60-degree V-angle contributed to a relatively smooth and balanced operation. The J5-DE was known for its responsiveness and willingness to rev, characteristics that set it apart from some of its four-cylinder competitors. The engine was paired exclusively with a five-speed manual transmission in most markets, offering drivers a direct connection to the powertrain.
Driving Characteristics
The Lantis 2.0i V6 offered a noticeably more engaging driving experience than the base models equipped with the 1.6L or 1.8L four-cylinder engines. The V6 provided ample power for both city driving and highway cruising, with smooth acceleration and a pleasing exhaust note. The five-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to fully exploit the engine’s powerband, while the relatively lightweight chassis contributed to nimble handling. While not a sports car, the Lantis V6 offered a good balance of comfort and performance, making it a pleasant daily driver. The gear ratios were well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, providing strong acceleration in the lower gears and comfortable cruising at highway speeds.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0i V6 trim was the top-of-the-line Lantis model, and as such, it came equipped with a generous array of standard features. These typically included power windows, power door locks, central locking, air conditioning, and a decent audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, although leather options were sometimes available. The dashboard featured a straightforward layout with easy-to-read gauges. Optional extras could include a sunroof, alloy wheels, and upgraded audio systems. The overall interior design was functional and modern for its time, although it lacked the luxurious appointments found in some of its more expensive competitors.
Chassis & Braking
The Lantis utilized a front-wheel drive layout with independent wishbone suspension in the front and a coil spring setup in the rear. This suspension configuration provided a comfortable ride while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. The front brakes were ventilated discs, providing ample stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard on the 2.0i V6 model, enhancing safety and control during hard braking. The steering was a rack and pinion system with hydraulic power assistance, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lantis 2.0i V6 was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its stylish design, responsive engine, and comfortable ride. However, some critics noted that the interior quality was not quite up to par with some of its competitors. Compared to the lower-trim Lantis models, the 2.0i V6 offered a significant performance upgrade, but it also came with a higher price tag. Fuel economy was reasonable for a V6 engine of its time, but it was not as efficient as the four-cylinder models. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the electrical system.
Legacy
The Mazda Lantis, while not a massive sales success, remains a fondly remembered model among Mazda enthusiasts. The 2.0i V6 variant, in particular, is sought after for its smooth power delivery and engaging driving experience. The J5-DE engine proved to be a durable and reliable powerplant, and many examples are still on the road today. In the used car market, the Lantis 2.0i V6 typically commands a premium over the lower-trim models, reflecting its desirability and relative rarity. It represents a unique chapter in Mazda’s history, showcasing the company’s willingness to experiment with design and engineering.
