The Mazda 3 II Sedan, specifically the 1.6 CD variant produced from 2011 to 2013 (following the 2009 facelift of the BL generation), represented a fuel-efficient entry point into the compact sedan market. Positioned as a diesel-powered option within the second generation Mazda 3 lineup, it aimed to appeal to European drivers seeking lower running costs and reasonable performance. This model occupied the lower-mid range of the available trims, slotting below the more powerful 2.0-liter gasoline and higher-output diesel versions. It was primarily sold in Europe and other markets where diesel engines held significant popularity.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mazda |
| Model | 3 |
| Generation | II Sedan (BL, facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 CD (116 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 US mpg, 74.3 UK mpg, 26.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 115 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 188 km/h (116.82 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.7 kg/Hp, 93.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 217.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 116 Hp @ 3600 rpm |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 1750-2700 rpm (199.14 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2700 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Y650, Y655 |
| Engine displacement | 1560 cm3 (95.2 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.8 l (4.02 US qt | 3.34 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1240 kg (2733.73 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1815 kg (4001.39 lbs.) |
| Max load | 575 kg (1267.66 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 430 l (15.19 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Length | 4580 mm (180.31 in.) |
| Width | 1755 mm (69.09 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2002 mm (78.82 in.) |
| Height | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2640 mm (103.94 in.) |
| Front track | 1535 mm (60.43 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1530 mm (60.24 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 155 mm (6.1 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.27 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.4 m (34.12 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Mazda 3 1.6 CD was the Y650 or Y655 series diesel engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder unit. This engine utilized a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler was employed to boost power output and improve torque across a wider rev range. The engine featured two valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 16:1, contributing to its efficiency. The engine produced 116 horsepower at 3600 rpm and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2700 rpm. The engine was paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, delivering power to the front wheels.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 CD variant offered a balance between fuel economy and acceptable performance. While not a particularly sporty option, the 270 Nm of torque provided adequate pulling power for everyday driving situations. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 10.5 seconds, and top speed was rated at 116.82 mph. The gear ratios were tuned for efficiency, prioritizing fuel savings over rapid acceleration. Compared to the higher-output 2.0-liter gasoline engine, the 1.6 CD felt noticeably slower, but it offered significantly better fuel economy. The manual transmission provided a more engaging driving experience than an automatic would have, allowing drivers to maintain control over the engine’s power band.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 CD trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a basic audio system with CD player, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels added features like alloy wheels, fog lights, cruise control, and a more advanced audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and straightforward dashboard layout. Optional extras included a sunroof, leather upholstery, and a navigation system.
Chassis & Braking
The Mazda 3 II Sedan featured an independent suspension setup, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link system at the rear. This provided a comfortable ride and decent handling characteristics. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The suspension was tuned to prioritize comfort over outright sportiness, making it well-suited for everyday driving.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mazda 3 1.6 CD was generally well-received by critics for its fuel efficiency and reasonable running costs. It was seen as a practical and economical choice for drivers who prioritized fuel savings over performance. Compared to other diesel-powered compact sedans, the Mazda 3 offered a good balance of features and value. However, some critics noted that the engine could be somewhat noisy and lacked the refinement of some of its competitors. Fuel economy figures of around 54.7 US mpg combined were highly competitive for the time.
Legacy
The Y650/Y655 engine family proved to be relatively reliable, although like any diesel engine, it required regular maintenance, including oil changes and filter replacements. The 1.6 CD variant of the Mazda 3 II Sedan remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly for those seeking an economical and practical vehicle. While not a performance icon, it represents a solid and dependable option for everyday transportation. Parts availability is generally good, and the relatively simple mechanical design makes it relatively easy to maintain.
