For 1996, Mazda made only minor changes to its Millennia luxury vehicle, which had been introduced a year earlier. New alloy wheels were among the few upgrades, and a new trim package, called the L sedan, was added to the lineup. Slotted between the Base version and the S package, the L sedan offered a base engine but upgraded features such as leather seats and a power sunroof. The Base version of the Millennia (as well as the new L sedan) was powered by a 170-horsepower 2.5-liter V6, which was linked to a four-speed automatic transmission (standard throughout the line). Standard equipment included air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, 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. To the list of standard features available in the Base model, the S version added leather seats, a power sunroof, and traction control. Generally, drivers were very positive about the Millennia, noting that it was a well-engineered luxury car that was also a good value, in many cases. Standard features were considered to be very generous, though some thought the engine to be a bit underpowered when compared to the powerplants in other luxury vehicles. Drivers reported having very few problems with the car, although some noted that replacement parts could be expensive.