Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mazda |
| Model | 6 |
| Generation | 6 III Sedan (GJ, facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 SKYACTIV-D (175 Hp) i-ELOOP Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg, 47.1 UK mpg, 16.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 127 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 216 km/h (134.22 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.5 kg/Hp, 117.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.6 kg/Nm, 280.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 175 Hp @ 4500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 79.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 420 Nm @ 2000 rpm (309.78 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | SHY4 |
| Engine displacement | 2191 cm3 (133.7 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 94.3 mm (3.71 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 14:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.1 l (5.39 US qt | 4.49 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.7 l (9.19 US qt | 7.65 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1495-1600 kg (3295.91 – 3527.4 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2070 kg (4563.57 lbs.) |
| Max load | 470-575 kg (1036.17 – 1267.66 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal | 13.64 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 730 kg (1609.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4870 mm (191.73 in.) |
| Width | 1840 mm (72.44 in.) |
| Height | 1450 mm (57.09 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2830 mm (111.42 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 165 mm (6.5 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic 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 |
The Mazda 6 III Sedan, specifically the facelifted version introduced in 2015 (GJ platform), represented a significant evolution of Mazda’s mid-size offering. The 2.2 SKYACTIV-D variant with 175 horsepower and a six-speed automatic transmission, coupled with the i-ELOOP energy recovery system, was a key model in the European and Asian markets, offering a blend of performance, efficiency, and technology. Production of this specific configuration ran from 2015 to 2017, positioned as a mid-to-upper trim level within the broader Mazda 6 lineup.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Mazda 6 variant is the SHY4 2.2-liter SKYACTIV-D diesel engine. This engine is a four-cylinder, inline configuration boasting a high 14:1 compression ratio, a key element in its efficiency. The engine utilizes a twin-turbocharger setup (bi-turbo) with an intercooler, allowing for both strong low-end torque and sustained power throughout the rev range. Fuel is delivered via a common-rail direct injection system, optimized for precise fuel metering and reduced emissions. The i-ELOOP system, Mazda’s kinetic energy recovery system, captures energy during braking and deceleration, storing it in a capacitor to power electrical components, reducing the load on the alternator and improving fuel economy. The six-speed automatic transmission was specifically tuned to complement the engine’s torque curve, providing smooth shifts and responsive acceleration. Unlike some competitors, Mazda opted for a traditional torque converter automatic rather than a dual-clutch transmission, prioritizing smoothness and refinement.
Driving Characteristics
The 175 hp SKYACTIV-D automatic offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as some of the gasoline-powered Mazda 6 variants, it provided ample power for everyday driving and highway cruising. The 420 Nm (309.78 lb-ft) of torque available from 2000 rpm ensured strong acceleration in most situations. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly quick to downshift, meaning overtaking maneuvers required a bit of planning. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the same engine, the automatic offered less driver engagement but greater convenience. The gear ratios were optimized for fuel efficiency, with a relatively tall final drive. The i-ELOOP system was largely transparent to the driver, but contributed to noticeable improvements in real-world fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.2 SKYACTIV-D 175 hp automatic typically came equipped as a mid-to-upper trim level. Standard features generally included automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and a suite of safety features like ABS, traction control, and multiple airbags. Interior upholstery was typically cloth or a combination of cloth and leatherette. Optional extras included a sunroof, leather seats, a premium sound system, and advanced driver-assistance systems like lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control. The specific trim level (e.g., Touring, Grand Touring) dictated the availability of these optional features.
Chassis & Braking
The Mazda 6 GJ utilized a front-wheel-drive platform with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. The suspension was tuned for a balance of comfort and handling. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The steering was an electric power-assisted rack and pinion system, providing light and precise steering feel. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mazda 6 2.2 SKYACTIV-D automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined interior. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission could feel a bit sluggish at times. Compared to other diesel-powered mid-size sedans, the Mazda 6 offered a more engaging driving experience and a more premium interior. The 1.8-liter gasoline variants were less expensive but offered significantly less torque and lower fuel economy. The higher-output 2.5-liter gasoline engines provided more performance but at the expense of fuel efficiency. The 2.2 SKYACTIV-D struck a good balance between the two.
Legacy
The SHY4 2.2 SKYACTIV-D engine, when properly maintained, has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. However, like all modern diesel engines, it is susceptible to issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) if not driven on longer journeys regularly. The i-ELOOP system has also demonstrated good long-term reliability. On the used car market, the 2.2 SKYACTIV-D automatic Mazda 6 models are generally sought after for their fuel efficiency and comfortable driving experience. They represent a good value proposition for buyers looking for a well-equipped and reliable mid-size sedan.
