In its fifth year in production, the Mazda Millennia received a much-needed redesign. And even though it was not an extensive redo, it helped freshen up an appearance that some drivers liked but others thought was rather bland and uninspired for a luxury vehicle, especially one that had to compete with the best from Acura, Lexus, and Infiniti, not to mention other luxury marques.
Design changes for 1999 included a new grille, new headlights and taillights, and larger alloy wheels. Interior upgrades included new chrome and wood trim, as well as new color schemes.
Engine options remained the same, however.
The Base Millennia sedan was powered by a 170-horsepower 2.5-liter V6, which was linked to a four-speed automatic transmission. Standard features included air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, power seats in the front, a tilt steering wheel with a memory feature, cruise control, automatic climate control, dual airbags, and a lighted entry system.
The S version received a supercharged 2.3-liter V6, which pushed horsepower up to 210. It was equipped with an upgraded list of standard features that included leather seats, a power sunroof, and traction control.
There's no doubt that as a luxury vehicle the Millennia met its goal, and drivers responded with plenty of positive comments. The Millennia's handling, sport-tuned suspension, braking, interior appointments, and reliability were all cited as positive points. Performance was called adequate, though not spectacular. And the Millennia was considered a good value by most drivers. However, although Mazda dropped the price on the Millennia sedan for 1999, drivers noted the vehicle's resale value was a sore spot.