The Mazda 3 III Sedan (BM) 1.5 Skyactiv-D, producing 105 horsepower, was a key variant in Mazda’s third-generation Mazda 3 lineup, introduced in 2016. This model represented Mazda’s continued push for fuel efficiency and refinement in the compact sedan segment. Positioned as an entry-level diesel option, it aimed to provide a balance between economy and usability for European and Asian markets, where diesel engines remained popular. While not sold in North America, the BM generation Mazda 3 was a significant step forward for Mazda in terms of design, technology, and driving dynamics. This specific 1.5-liter diesel variant was primarily aimed at drivers prioritizing fuel economy and lower running costs.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mazda |
| Model | 3 |
| Generation | 3 III Sedan (BM) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 Skyactiv-D (105 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.5 l/100 km (67.2 US mpg, 80.7 UK mpg, 28.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 US mpg, 74.3 UK mpg, 26.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 99 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 | 186 km/h (115.58 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12 kg/Hp, 83 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 213.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 105 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 70.1 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 | 1498 cm3 (91.41 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 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1265-1340 kg (2788.85 – 2954.19 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1870 kg (4122.64 lbs.) |
| Max load | 530-605 kg (1168.45 – 1333.8 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 419 l (14.8 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 | 4580 mm (180.31 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.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 155 mm (6.1 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 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, manual 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Mazda 3 variant is the 1.5-liter Skyactiv-D diesel engine, specifically the S5-DPTS or S5-DPTR engine code depending on the specific market and year. This engine is a four-cylinder, inline configuration, boasting a relatively high compression ratio of 14.8:1, contributing to its efficiency. The Skyactiv-D technology focuses on maximizing combustion efficiency through optimized fuel injection, piston design, and intake airflow. It utilizes a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for finer atomization and more complete combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power output and improve torque across a wider rev range. The engine produces 105 horsepower at 4000 rpm and a respectable 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque between 1600 and 2500 rpm. This engine was paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, optimized for fuel economy and smooth shifting.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 Skyactiv-D 105 hp variant of the Mazda 3 offered a comfortable and economical driving experience. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) took around 11 seconds, which is adequate for everyday driving but doesn’t offer particularly sporty performance. The engine’s torque delivery, peaking at low to mid-range revs, provided sufficient power for overtaking and navigating city streets. Compared to higher-output versions of the Mazda 3, such as those with larger displacement engines or more powerful turbocharging, this variant felt less responsive. However, the manual transmission allowed for greater driver control and engagement. The gear ratios were tuned to prioritize fuel efficiency, meaning the engine often operated at lower RPMs during cruising.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 Skyactiv-D 105 hp trim typically represented the entry-level diesel offering in the Mazda 3 range. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Safety features like multiple airbags were also standard. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional but relatively simple design. Optional extras could include alloy wheels, a more advanced infotainment system with navigation, rear parking sensors, and climate control. The trim level aimed to provide essential features at an affordable price point.
Chassis & Braking
The Mazda 3 BM utilized a front-wheel-drive chassis with a MacPherson strut suspension in the front and a multi-link suspension in the rear. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The suspension tuning was geared towards providing a comfortable ride for everyday driving, rather than outright sporty handling. Stabilizer bars were included to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.5 Skyactiv-D 105 hp Mazda 3 was generally well-received by critics for its fuel efficiency and refinement. It offered a compelling alternative to petrol-powered rivals, particularly in markets where diesel fuel was cheaper and more readily available. Compared to other trims in the Mazda 3 lineup, such as the 2.0-liter petrol variants, this diesel model offered significantly better fuel economy but less outright performance. Reliability was generally good, with the Skyactiv-D engine proving to be durable and long-lasting. However, diesel engines typically require more expensive maintenance, such as diesel particulate filter (DPF) replacements.
Legacy
The 1.5 Skyactiv-D engine, and the Mazda 3 BM variant featuring it, has established a reputation for reliability and fuel efficiency. In the used car market, these models remain popular choices for drivers seeking an economical and practical compact sedan. While diesel engine technology has faced increased scrutiny in recent years due to emissions concerns, the Skyactiv-D engines are generally considered to be cleaner and more efficient than older diesel designs. The 1.5 Skyactiv-D 105 hp Mazda 3 represents a significant step in Mazda’s commitment to developing innovative and environmentally friendly automotive technology.
