The Mazda 3 III Hatchback, specifically the facelift model introduced in 2017, represented a significant evolution of Mazda’s popular compact car. Within the BM series, the 1.5 SkyActiv-D (105 Hp) variant equipped with the Skyactiv-Drive automatic transmission was offered primarily in European and Asian markets from 2017 to 2018. This model aimed to provide a balance of fuel efficiency, reasonable performance, and affordability, positioning itself as an entry-level diesel option within the broader Mazda 3 lineup. It was designed to appeal to drivers prioritizing economy and comfort over outright performance, competing with similar diesel-powered hatchbacks from Volkswagen, Ford, and Opel/Vauxhall.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mazda |
| Model | 3 |
| Generation | 3 III Hatchback (BM, facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 SkyActiv-D (105 Hp) Skyactiv-Drive |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 114 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11 sec |
| Maximum speed | 181 km/h (112.47 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.2 kg/Hp, 81.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm, 210.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 105 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 70 Hp/l |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 1600-2500 rpm (199.14 lb.-ft. @ 1600-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | S5-DPTS, S5-DPTR |
| Engine displacement | 1499 cm3 (91.47 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76 mm (2.99 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82.6 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 14.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.1 l (5.39 US qt | 4.49 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.1 l (7.5 US qt | 6.25 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1285-1368 kg (2832.94 – 3015.92 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Max load | 532-615 kg (1172.86 – 1355.84 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) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4470 mm (175.98 in.) |
| Width | 1795 mm (70.67 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2053 mm (80.83 in.) |
| Height | 1465 mm (57.68 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 155 mm (6.1 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic 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 | 205/60 R16; 215/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The Mazda 3 III (BM) facelift, launched in 2017, brought with it revised styling, improved interior materials, and refinements to the SkyActiv technology suite. The 1.5 SkyActiv-D engine, paired with the Skyactiv-Drive six-speed automatic transmission, was a key component of Mazda’s strategy to offer a fuel-efficient and accessible diesel option. This particular configuration was not widely available in the North American market, where Mazda focused primarily on gasoline engines. Instead, it was geared towards European and Asian consumers seeking lower running costs and improved fuel economy, particularly for longer commutes and highway driving. The facelift brought subtle exterior changes, including a redesigned front grille and headlights, and interior upgrades focused on enhancing the perceived quality and comfort.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Mazda 3 variant is the S5-DPTS or S5-DPTR 1.5-liter four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine is a member of Mazda’s SkyActiv-D family, characterized by its exceptionally high compression ratio of 14.8:1. This high compression is achieved through a combination of optimized combustion chamber design, precise fuel injection, and variable valve timing. The engine utilizes a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for efficient combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power and torque. The Skyactiv-Drive automatic transmission is a conventional torque-converter automatic, but it features a quick-shifting design and a wide range of gear ratios optimized for both fuel economy and responsiveness. Unlike some dual-clutch transmissions, the Skyactiv-Drive prioritizes smoothness and refinement over outright speed.
Driving Characteristics
The 105 horsepower and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque produced by the 1.5 SkyActiv-D engine, when coupled with the six-speed automatic, resulted in a comfortable but not particularly sporty driving experience. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) took around 11.6 seconds, which was adequate for everyday driving but noticeably slower than the higher-powered gasoline variants or the 2.2-liter diesel models. The automatic transmission generally shifted smoothly, but could sometimes feel hesitant during quick overtaking maneuvers. The engine’s peak torque was available from a relatively low 1600 rpm, providing decent pulling power for merging onto highways or climbing hills. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine often operated at lower rpm, contributing to the impressive fuel economy figures.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 SkyActiv-D automatic typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. Depending on the specific market and optional packages, these often included air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels added features such as a touchscreen infotainment system, navigation, automatic climate control, and advanced safety features like lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with leather options available as an upgrade. Dashboard design was relatively minimalist, focusing on functionality and ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The Mazda 3 III Hatchback utilized a front-wheel-drive platform with independent suspension at all four corners. The front suspension employed a McPherson strut design, while the rear featured a multi-link setup. This configuration provided a good balance of ride comfort and handling. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. The relatively modest power output of the 1.5 diesel meant that the braking system was generally adequate for the vehicle’s performance capabilities. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the Mazda 3 1.5 SkyActiv-D for its fuel efficiency and refined driving experience. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the punch of its larger displacement counterparts. Compared to the 2.0-liter gasoline engine, the diesel offered significantly better fuel economy but less overall performance. The 2.2-liter diesel provided more power and torque but came at a higher price point. In terms of reliability, the SkyActiv-D engines proved to be generally robust, although, like all diesel engines, they required regular maintenance and were susceptible to issues related to the diesel particulate filter (DPF) if not driven on longer journeys periodically.
Legacy
The 1.5 SkyActiv-D engine, while not a high-performance unit, established itself as a reliable and economical option within the Mazda 3 lineup. On the used car market, these models are often sought after by buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and low running costs. The Skyactiv-Drive automatic transmission, while not as sporty as some alternatives, has proven to be durable and relatively trouble-free. The overall build quality and refinement of the Mazda 3 III continue to make it a popular choice among used car buyers, and the 1.5 diesel variant remains a viable option for those seeking a practical and economical compact hatchback.
