The Mazda 6 II Sedan (GH) 2.2 CD, produced from 2007 to 2010, represented a significant step forward for Mazda in the mid-size sedan segment. This variant, powered by a 2.2-liter turbocharged diesel engine producing 185 horsepower, was primarily aimed at the European market where diesel engines held a substantial share of the automotive landscape. It slotted into the Mazda 6 lineup as a premium offering, balancing performance, fuel efficiency, and refinement. The GH generation, built on the Mazda’s C-platform, aimed to provide a more sophisticated driving experience than its predecessor, focusing on improved handling and interior quality.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mazda |
| Model | 6 |
| Generation | 6 II Sedan (GH) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 CD (185 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 149 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 218 km/h (135.46 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.8 kg/Hp, 128 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.6 kg/Nm, 276.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 185 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 84.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1600 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | R2AA |
| Engine displacement | 2183 cm3 (133.21 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 |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| 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 | 1445 kg (3185.68 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2065 kg (4552.55 lbs.) |
| Max load | 620 kg (1366.87 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 519 l (18.33 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 64 l (16.91 US gal | 14.08 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4755 mm (187.2 in.) |
| Width | 1795 mm (70.67 in.) |
| Height | 1440 mm (56.69 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2725 mm (107.28 in.) |
| Front track | 1550-1570 mm (61.02 – 61.81 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1550-1570 mm (61.02 – 61.81 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 165 mm (6.5 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 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 suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 299 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 280 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16; 215/50 R17; 225/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7J x 17; 7.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Mazda 6 II Sedan 2.2 CD is the R2AA engine, a 2.183-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 with an intercooler was employed to boost power and torque across a wide RPM range. The engine featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, enhancing breathing and contributing to its power output. The high compression ratio of 16.3:1 is typical for diesel engines, maximizing efficiency. The engine was designed to meet stringent Euro 4 emission standards, incorporating a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to reduce soot emissions.
Driving Characteristics
The 185 hp and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque provided by the 2.2 CD engine delivered strong acceleration and effortless cruising. The 0-60 mph time of around 7.9 seconds was respectable for a mid-size sedan of this era. The engine’s peak torque, available from just 1600 rpm, meant that strong pulling power was readily accessible, making overtaking maneuvers easy. Compared to the higher-output 2.5-liter gasoline variants, the diesel offered superior fuel economy and a more relaxed driving experience, albeit with slightly less outright performance. The manual transmission, with its six forward gears, was well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, providing a good balance between responsiveness and fuel efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.2 CD variant of the Mazda 6 II Sedan typically came equipped with a generous level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, a CD stereo system, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels added features such as leather upholstery, a sunroof, automatic climate control, and a premium sound system. Safety features like ABS, traction control, and multiple airbags were standard across the range. Optional extras included navigation systems and parking sensors.
Chassis & Braking
The Mazda 6 II Sedan featured a double wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and responsive handling. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mazda 6 II Sedan 2.2 CD was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined engine, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. Fuel economy was a major selling point, particularly in Europe where diesel fuel was often cheaper than gasoline. Compared to other diesel-powered sedans in its class, such as the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat, the Mazda 6 offered a more engaging driving experience and a stylish design. However, some critics noted that the interior materials weren’t quite as premium as those found in some of its rivals.
Legacy
The R2AA engine, while generally reliable, is known to require regular maintenance, particularly regarding the DPF system. Proper servicing and the use of high-quality diesel fuel are crucial to prevent issues. Today, well-maintained examples of the Mazda 6 II Sedan 2.2 CD can still be found on the used car market, offering a compelling combination of fuel efficiency, comfort, and reliability. The engine’s longevity and relatively straightforward mechanical design make it a popular choice for those seeking a practical and affordable mid-size sedan.
