All the flash talk and the deal about the cat having to last 170,000 miles has me wondering if maybe Mazda changed the cat for 2005. Perhaps something more durable that won't need all the fancy leaning/rich fuel mapping, etc. Something that might allow the engine to develop full power and proper economy and not have to worry about frying the cat.

Any info?

well they already have a newer model of the cat out.. I had to have mine replaced on my 04.