The name "Sentia" is derived from the Latin word "sentir", meaning to sense, feel or hear.

After struggling with development of a theme known as "Prince's Coach" (after the Japanese Crown Prince, later Emperor, Akihito), leading to an unusually large number of rejected full-size models, a young American designer named Peter Montero was tasked with developing a theme with 1/5 scale model.

During development of this theme, Montero proposed that, as a non-luxury brand targeting luxury models, a proper rear-wheel drive proportion should be emphasized.

The 3.0-liter JE-ZE received a new variable-length intake manifold to boost its power rating to 200 PS (147 kW; 197 hp).

Two different engine displacements were offered in Japan so as to give buyers a choice between which annual road tax obligation they were willing to pay.

The Sentia continued for one more generation, but export of the 929 to North America stopped in 1995 with the front-wheel drive Mazda Millenia remaining at the top of the company's lineup.

The 929 was withdrawn from North America due to a lack of interest in non-luxury brand Japanese imports of this size, evidenced by the withdrawal of the Toyota Cressida in 1992.

During the early 1990s Mazda had considered introducing its own luxury brand, Amati, to compete with Lexus, Infiniti and Acura but later withdrew their plans.

Anticipating that it would take over the role of formal-use vehicles (i.e. chauffeur-driven transport for executives) in the product line, this Sentia is considerably geared towards private owners in its focus.

The exterior and interior received a mild redesign to make the car more stately, and suitable for formal corporate use.

This includes a larger grille, taller roofline for improved rear headroom, as well as large expanses of woodgrain panelling.