The Mazda 3 III Sedan (BM) 1.5 SkyActiv-G, producing 100 horsepower, was a key variant in Mazda’s third-generation Mazda 3 lineup, produced from 2014 to 2016. Positioned as an entry-level offering, it aimed to provide fuel efficiency and affordability within the compact sedan segment. This model represented Mazda’s continued commitment to the SkyActiv technology suite, focusing on maximizing combustion efficiency and reducing weight. It primarily served the European and Asian markets, where fuel economy and smaller displacement engines were highly valued, though it was also available in select North American markets.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mazda |
| Model | 3 |
| Generation | 3 III Sedan (BM) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 SkyActiv-G (100 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg, 44.1 UK mpg, 15.6 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) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 118 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.9 kg/Hp, 84 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.9 kg/Nm, 126.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 100 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 150 Nm @ 4000 rpm (110.63 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | F-P5 |
| Engine displacement | 1496 cm3 (91.29 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74.5 mm (2.93 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.8 mm (3.38 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 14:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.2 l (4.44 US qt | 3.7 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1190 kg (2623.5 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Max load | 610 kg (1344.82 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 419 l (14.8 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 51 l (13.47 US gal | 11.22 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 600 kg (1322.77 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.) |
| Front track | 1555 mm (61.22 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1560 mm (61.42 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 155 mm (6.1 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.26 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 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 |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Mazda 3 variant is the 1.5-liter SkyActiv-G engine, designated as the F-P5. This engine is a naturally aspirated, inline-four cylinder powerplant. A key feature is its high compression ratio of 14:1, achieved through advanced engine design and precise fuel injection. This high compression ratio, combined with direct injection, contributes to improved thermal efficiency and fuel economy. The engine utilizes a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, optimizing airflow into and out of the cylinders. The SkyActiv-G technology also focuses on reducing internal friction through lightweight components and optimized oil flow. The engine is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, delivering power to the front wheels. While an automatic transmission was available on other 1.5L trims, this specific 100 hp version was primarily offered with the manual gearbox.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5-liter engine, producing 100 horsepower and 150 Nm (110.63 lb-ft) of torque, provided adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 10.2 seconds, and the top speed was around 115 mph. The engine felt responsive at lower RPMs, thanks to the direct injection system, but power tapered off noticeably as the revs climbed. The 6-speed manual transmission offered precise shifts, allowing drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the higher-output 2.0-liter SkyActiv-G variants, this 1.5L engine felt significantly less powerful, particularly during overtaking maneuvers or when carrying a full load of passengers. However, the lighter engine weight contributed to a more balanced feel and improved handling. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, resulting in a slightly higher cruising RPM at highway speeds.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 SkyActiv-G 100 hp model typically represented the base trim level for the Mazda 3 sedan. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a straightforward design with minimal embellishments. Optional extras included alloy wheels, a more advanced audio system, cruise control, and fog lights. Higher trim levels, such as the 2.0-liter variants, offered features like leather upholstery, a sunroof, and a navigation system, which were not available on the base 1.5L model.
Chassis & Braking
The Mazda 3 III Sedan featured a front-wheel-drive layout with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. The suspension was tuned for a balance between comfort and handling. The 1.5L variant, being lighter than its higher-powered siblings, generally exhibited slightly more agile handling. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, providing enhanced braking performance and stability. The steering system utilized an electric power steering rack and pinion, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.5 SkyActiv-G 100 hp Mazda 3 was generally well-received by critics for its fuel efficiency and affordability. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the punch of the larger 2.0-liter variants. Compared to competitors like the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus, the Mazda 3 offered a more engaging driving experience and a more stylish interior. Fuel economy figures were competitive, averaging around 47 US mpg on the combined cycle. Reliability was generally good, with few reported issues specific to the 1.5L engine. However, some owners reported occasional issues with the direct injection system, requiring cleaning or replacement of the fuel injectors.
Legacy
The 1.5 SkyActiv-G engine proved to be a reliable and fuel-efficient powerplant. In the used car market, these models are often sought after by buyers looking for an affordable and economical compact sedan. While not as desirable as the higher-performance variants, the 1.5L models offer a practical and dependable transportation option. The SkyActiv technology introduced in this generation of Mazda 3 laid the foundation for Mazda’s continued focus on efficiency and driving dynamics in subsequent models. The F-P5 engine, while not a powerhouse, remains a relatively trouble-free unit, making these Mazda 3s a viable option for budget-conscious buyers.
