The Mazda2 II (DE) 1.6 CD, producing 90 horsepower, was a key variant of Mazda’s subcompact offering in the European market from 2009 to 2010. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and affordable option, it occupied the middle ground within the second-generation Mazda2 (DE) lineup, slotting below the more powerful petrol variants and above the base-level engine options. This model was built on the DY platform, shared with the Ford Fiesta, reflecting Mazda’s partnership with Ford at the time. The 1.6 CD aimed to provide a balance between performance and economy, appealing to drivers seeking a practical and economical city car.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mazda |
| Model | 2 |
| Generation | 2 II (DE) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 CD (90 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.7 l/100 km (63.6 US mpg, 76.3 UK mpg, 27 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 112 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 173 km/h (107.5 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.4 kg/Hp, 87.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 199 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 90 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 57.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 205 Nm @ 2000 rpm (151.2 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Y406, Y646 |
| 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 | 18.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.9 l (4.12 US qt | 3.43 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt | 5.46 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1030 kg (2270.76 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1540 kg (3395.12 lbs.) |
| Max load | 510 kg (1124.36 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 250 l (8.83 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 787 l (27.79 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 43 l (11.36 US gal | 9.46 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 800 kg (1763.7 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Length | 3900 mm (153.54 in.) |
| Width | 1695 mm (66.73 in.) |
| Height | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2490 mm (98.03 in.) |
| Front track | 1485 mm (58.46 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 150 mm (5.91 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 9.8 m (32.15 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 | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 185/55 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Mazda2 1.6 CD was the Y406 or Y646 series 1.6-liter inline-four diesel engine. 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 a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its relatively efficient operation. The 18.3:1 compression ratio was typical for a diesel engine, maximizing thermal efficiency. The engine was transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The 90 horsepower output was achieved at 4000 rpm, while peak torque of 205 Nm (151.2 lb-ft) was available from 2000 rpm. The engine was paired with a five-speed manual transmission, which was the standard offering for this variant. While an automatic transmission was available on other Mazda2 models, it was not offered with the 1.6 CD engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 CD with the five-speed manual transmission offered a practical and economical driving experience. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 11.4 seconds, making it adequate for city driving and short highway trips. The turbocharger provided a noticeable boost in power, but the engine lacked the outright punch of the higher-output petrol versions. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, with a relatively long fifth gear for comfortable cruising. Compared to the petrol-powered Mazda2s, the 1.6 CD offered significantly better fuel economy, but at the expense of some performance. The manual transmission allowed for greater driver control, but the diesel engine’s narrow power band required more frequent gear changes to maintain momentum.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 CD typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and an audio system with CD player. Safety features such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and front airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels offered options such as air conditioning, alloy wheels, and a multi-function steering wheel. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. The dashboard layout was straightforward and user-friendly, prioritizing practicality over luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The Mazda2 1.6 CD utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a coil spring rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, although it wasn’t particularly sporty. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were drums, a cost-saving measure common in this segment. The chassis was relatively lightweight, contributing to the car’s fuel efficiency and agility. The steering was a rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mazda2 1.6 CD was generally well-received by automotive critics for its fuel efficiency and practicality. It was seen as a strong competitor to other subcompact diesel cars, such as the Ford Fiesta TDCi and the Volkswagen Polo TDI. However, some reviewers noted that the engine was somewhat noisy and lacked the refinement of some of its rivals. The 1.6 CD offered a compelling value proposition for buyers seeking a low-cost-to-operate city car. Compared to the petrol-powered Mazda2 variants, the 1.6 CD offered superior fuel economy but lower performance. The manual transmission was preferred by many drivers for its greater control and engagement.
Legacy
The Mazda2 1.6 CD has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. The diesel engine, while requiring regular maintenance, is known for its durability. Common issues include turbocharger wear and potential problems with the fuel injection system. In the used car market, the 1.6 CD remains a popular choice for buyers seeking an economical and practical subcompact. Its fuel efficiency and low running costs continue to make it an attractive option, even as newer and more technologically advanced cars become available. The Mazda2 II (DE) 1.6 CD represents a solid and dependable choice for those prioritizing economy and practicality in a small package.
