The Mazda 3 III Sedan, specifically the facelifted version introduced in 2017, represented a significant evolution of Mazda’s compact car lineup. The 2.5 SkyActiv-G (184 Hp) variant paired with the SkyActiv-Drive automatic transmission, produced from 2018, occupied a mid-to-upper position within the range, offering a balance of performance and fuel efficiency. This model, designated internally as the BM series, was primarily aimed at the North American and select international markets, where sedans remained a popular body style. It built upon the success of the previous generation, focusing on Mazda’s “Kodo – Soul of Motion” design language and SkyActiv technology suite.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mazda |
| Model | 3 |
| Generation | 3 III Sedan (BM, facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 SkyActiv-G (184 Hp) Skyactiv-Drive |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg, 36.2 UK mpg, 12.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.6 kg/Hp, 130.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm, 178.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 184 Hp @ 5700 rpm |
| Power per litre | 74 Hp/l |
| Torque | 251 Nm @ 3250 rpm (185.13 lb.-ft. @ 3250 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | PY-VPS |
| Engine displacement | 2488 cm3 (151.83 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 100 mm (3.94 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 13:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC-VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1406 kg (3099.7 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 351 l (12.4 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4580 mm (180.31 in.) |
| Width | 1796 mm (70.71 in.) |
| Height | 1455 mm (57.28 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Front track | 1554 mm (61.18 in.) |
| Rear track | 1560 mm (61.42 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 155 mm (6.1 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 215/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.0J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Mazda 3 2.5 SkyActiv-G was the PY-VPS engine, a 2.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine was a key component of Mazda’s SkyActiv technology, designed to maximize combustion efficiency. It featured direct injection, a high compression ratio of 13:1, and a sophisticated dual overhead cam (DOHC) valvetrain with variable valve timing (VVT). The SkyActiv-Drive automatic transmission was a six-speed unit with a torque converter, engineered to provide smooth and responsive shifts while contributing to overall fuel economy. Unlike traditional automatic transmissions, the SkyActiv-Drive aimed to mimic the feel of a manual transmission by quickly locking up the torque converter for more direct power delivery. The engine’s design prioritized torque across a broad RPM range, making it suitable for everyday driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 184 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque produced by the 2.5-liter engine, when coupled with the SkyActiv-Drive automatic, provided a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the manual transmission variants or the higher-output turbocharged models, the automatic offered smooth acceleration and adequate power for highway merging and passing maneuvers. The six-speed transmission was well-geared, keeping the engine within its optimal power band during typical driving scenarios. Compared to the base 2.0-liter engine, the 2.5-liter offered a noticeable improvement in performance, while still maintaining respectable fuel economy. The automatic transmission, while efficient, did result in a slightly less engaging driving experience compared to the available six-speed manual.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.5 SkyActiv-G with SkyActiv-Drive was typically offered in higher trim levels, such as the Touring, Grand Touring, and Signature models. Standard features included Mazda’s infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, a rearview camera, and automatic climate control. Higher trims added features like leather upholstery, a premium sound system, navigation, and advanced safety technologies such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on lower trims, upgrading to leather on the Grand Touring and Signature models. Dashboard configurations were consistent across trims, featuring a clean and modern design.
Chassis & Braking
The Mazda 3 III Sedan utilized a front-wheel-drive platform with an independent suspension system. The front suspension employed a McPherson strut design with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension featured a multi-link setup with a stabilizer bar. This suspension configuration provided a good balance of ride comfort and handling precision. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. The chassis was designed to be lightweight yet rigid, contributing to the car’s overall agility.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mazda 3 III Sedan, particularly the 2.5 SkyActiv-G with SkyActiv-Drive, received positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, refined interior, and engaging driving dynamics. The automatic transmission was generally well-received, although some reviewers preferred the more direct feel of the manual transmission. Fuel economy was considered competitive within its class. Compared to other compact sedans, such as the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla, the Mazda 3 offered a more premium feel and a more engaging driving experience. However, some competitors offered more spacious interiors or a wider range of available features.
Legacy
The PY-VPS engine and SkyActiv-Drive transmission proved to be reliable powertrains, with relatively few reported issues. The Mazda 3 III Sedan has maintained a good reputation for long-term durability, and well-maintained examples continue to be sought after in the used car market. The SkyActiv technology introduced in this generation set a new standard for fuel efficiency and performance in the compact car segment, influencing Mazda’s future vehicle development. The combination of a responsive engine, a smooth-shifting automatic transmission, and a well-balanced chassis made the 2.5 SkyActiv-G variant a popular choice for drivers seeking a refined and enjoyable driving experience.
