The Mazda 6 II Hatchback (GH) 2.2 CD, produced from 2007 to 2010, represented a significant offering in the European D-segment (compact family car) market. This variant, equipped with a 2.2-liter turbocharged diesel engine producing 163 horsepower, aimed to balance fuel efficiency with respectable performance. Positioned as a mid-range option within the second-generation Mazda 6 lineup (GH platform), it catered to drivers seeking a practical and economical hatchback with a more refined driving experience than the base models. The GH generation Mazda 6 was a crucial model for Mazda, building upon the success of the first generation and establishing the brand as a competitor to established European and Japanese manufacturers.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mazda |
| Model | 6 |
| Generation | 6 II Hatchback (GH) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 CD (163 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 212 km/h (131.73 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.5 kg/Hp, 104.8 Hp/tonne |
| Power | 163 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 74.6 Hp/l |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | R2AA |
| Engine displacement | 2184 cm3 (133.28 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 94 mm (3.7 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1555 kg (3428.19 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2110 kg (4651.75 lbs.) |
| Max load | 555 kg (1223.57 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 510 l (18.01 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 64 l (16.91 US gal | 14.08 UK gal) |
| Length | 4735 mm (186.42 in.) |
| Width | 1795 mm (70.67 in.) |
| Height | 1440 mm (56.69 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2725 mm (107.28 in.) |
| Front track | 1550 mm (61.02 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1550 mm (61.02 in.) |
| 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 brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Mazda 6 II 2.2 CD is the R2AA engine, a 2.2-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine utilized a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) and intercooler were employed to boost power and improve torque across a wider RPM range. The engine featured four valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 16.3:1, contributing to its efficiency. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, providing a good balance between fuel economy and driver control. The engine was designed to meet stringent Euro 5 emission standards, incorporating a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to reduce soot emissions.
Driving Characteristics
The 163 hp 2.2 CD offered a noticeable step up in performance compared to the lower-powered 1.8-liter gasoline variants. While not a sports car, it provided sufficient power for comfortable highway cruising and overtaking. The turbocharger provided a noticeable surge of power in the mid-range, making it responsive for everyday driving. The 6-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 8.7 seconds, which was competitive for its class. Compared to the higher-output 2.5-liter gasoline engine, the 2.2 CD prioritized fuel economy and torque over outright horsepower. The manual transmission offered a more engaging driving experience than the optional automatic, but the automatic provided greater convenience for urban driving.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.2 CD trim typically included features such as air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a CD player with MP3 compatibility, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels added features like automatic climate control, a sunroof, leather upholstery, and a premium sound system. Safety features included ABS, electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), and multiple airbags. Optional extras included navigation systems, parking sensors, and xenon headlights. Interior upholstery was generally cloth on the base models, with leather available as an upgrade. The dashboard layout was functional and well-designed, with a focus on ergonomics.
Chassis & Braking
The Mazda 6 II Hatchback featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The 2.2 CD models typically came equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, offering ample stopping power. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension was tuned to provide a balance between comfort and handling, making it suitable for both city driving and long-distance journeys.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mazda 6 II 2.2 CD was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined driving experience. However, some critics noted that the interior materials were not as premium as those found in some of its competitors. Compared to other diesel hatchbacks in its class, such as the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus, the Mazda 6 offered a more engaging driving experience and a more stylish design. Fuel economy was competitive, averaging around 43.6 US mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the DPF system.
Legacy
The Mazda 6 II 2.2 CD remains a popular choice in the used car market. The R2AA engine is known for its durability and relatively low maintenance costs, provided it has been properly maintained. The diesel particulate filter (DPF) can be a potential source of issues if the vehicle has been primarily used for short trips, as it may not have sufficient opportunity to regenerate. Overall, the 2.2 CD variant represents a well-rounded and reliable option for buyers seeking a practical and economical hatchback with a touch of style and driving enjoyment. Its blend of fuel efficiency, performance, and comfort has ensured its continued appeal in the used car market.
