Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mazda |
| Model | 3 |
| Generation | 3 III Hatchback (BM) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 SkyActiv-G (120 Hp) Skyactiv-Drive |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg, 40.4 UK mpg, 14.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 129 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 194 km/h (120.55 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.3 kg/Hp, 96.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm, 169.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 210 Nm @ 4000 rpm (154.89 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83.5 mm (3.29 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 91.2 mm (3.59 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 14:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.2 l (4.44 US qt | 3.7 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1240 kg (2733.73 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1835 kg (4045.48 lbs.) |
| Max load | 595 kg (1311.75 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 364 l (12.85 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1263 l (44.6 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 51 l (13.47 US gal | 11.22 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Length | 4460 mm (175.59 in.) |
| Width | 1795 mm (70.67 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2053 mm (80.83 in.) |
| Height | 1450 mm (57.09 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Front track | 1555 mm (61.22 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1560 mm (61.42 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 155 mm (6.1 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.6 m (34.78 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, automatic transmission |
| 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 | 205/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
The Mazda 3 III Hatchback (BM) 2.0 SkyActiv-G (120 Hp) Skyactiv-Drive, produced from 2013 to 2016, represents a significant variant within the third generation of Mazda’s globally successful compact car. This model, part of the BM series, was primarily aimed at the European and Asian markets, offering a blend of fuel efficiency, practicality, and Mazda’s signature driving dynamics. It occupied a mid-range position in the 3 hatchback lineup, slotting between the lower-powered 1.5L engine options and the more performance-oriented 2.5L variants. The SkyActiv-Drive designation refers to the six-speed automatic transmission, a core component of Mazda’s fuel-saving technology suite.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Mazda 3 2.0 SkyActiv-G (120 Hp) lies the PE-VPH engine, a 1998cc inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is a cornerstone of Mazda’s SkyActiv technology, designed to maximize combustion efficiency. It features direct injection, a high compression ratio of 14:1, and a lightweight design. The direct injection system allows for precise fuel delivery, contributing to improved fuel economy and reduced emissions. The engine utilizes a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for enhanced performance. The SkyActiv-Drive automatic transmission is a six-speed unit with a torque converter. It’s programmed for smooth shifts and optimized gear ratios to complement the engine’s characteristics, prioritizing fuel efficiency without sacrificing drivability.
Driving Characteristics
The 120 hp output, coupled with the SkyActiv-Drive automatic, delivers a comfortable and predictable driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 9.9 seconds, and 0-100 km/h in 10.4 seconds. While not a performance-focused setup, the engine provides adequate power for everyday driving situations. The automatic transmission is tuned for efficiency, meaning it upshifts quickly to maintain lower engine speeds. This can sometimes result in a slight delay in response when requesting sudden acceleration. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the same engine, the automatic offers less driver engagement but greater convenience. Higher-output 2.5L variants provide significantly more spirited performance, while diesel models offer superior fuel economy and torque.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 SkyActiv-G (120 Hp) Skyactiv-Drive typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These generally included air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels, often denoted by suffixes like ‘Sport’ or ‘Touring’, added features such as automatic climate control, a more advanced infotainment system with touchscreen display, rear parking sensors, and cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather seats on higher trims. Safety features included ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags.
Chassis & Braking
The Mazda 3 BM utilizes a front-wheel-drive platform with a MacPherson strut suspension in the front and a multi-link suspension in the rear. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling precision. The 120 hp variant typically featured ventilated disc brakes in the front and solid disc brakes in the rear. The braking system is assisted by ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) for enhanced safety. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mazda 3 2.0 SkyActiv-G (120 Hp) Skyactiv-Drive was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and Mazda’s renowned handling characteristics. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered, particularly when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to other engines in the lineup, the 1.5L models were more affordable but offered less performance, while the 2.5L variants provided a more engaging driving experience at a higher price point. Diesel options were favored by those prioritizing fuel economy above all else.
Legacy
The PE-VPH engine and SkyActiv-Drive transmission have proven to be relatively reliable powertrains. Common issues are generally minor and often related to routine maintenance items. In the used car market, this variant of the Mazda 3 represents a good value proposition, offering a blend of practicality, fuel efficiency, and Mazda’s driving dynamics at an affordable price. Its longevity and relatively low running costs make it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable and well-rounded compact hatchback.
