International

Starting at December 1, the Mazda3 will be offered with a new 1.5-liter Skyactiv-D diesel engine.

Available for the hatchback and Fastback models, the new unit debuted with the Mazda2 and delivers 105 HP (77 kW) at 4,000 rpm and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) at 1,600-2,500 rpm. When mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox, the motor emits 99 g/km of CO2 with a combined economy of 74.3 mpg (UK). The hatchback version will also be available with a 6-speed Skyactiv-Drive automatic.

When equipped with the 1.5 diesel, the Japanese car accelerates from a standstill to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 11 seconds and hits a top speed of 187 km/h (116 mph).

The producer says that engine has been developed with the same Defy Convention approach as the larger Skyactiv-D 2.2 and features low 14.8:1 compression ratio that sets “new standards of efficiency and performance.”

“Putting the 1.5-liter Skyactiv-D into the Mazda3 will significantly increase the appeal of the Mazda3 to those fleets who prefer their drivers to run vehicles with a sub 2.0-liter engine, and with CO2 emissions from 99g/km this will also make the car more popular with drivers who place low BIK taxation near the top of their consideration criteria,” Steve Tomlinson, head of fleet Mazda UK, commented.