Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mazda |
| Model | 6 |
| Generation | 6 I Sedan (Typ GG/GY/GG1) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 CD (121 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2002 |
| End of production | 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.3 l/100 km (28.3 US mpg, 34 UK mpg, 12 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 179 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 198 km/h (123.03 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 3 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.7 kg/Hp, 85.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm, 219.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 121 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 310 Nm @ 2000 rpm (228.64 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | RF5C |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1410 kg (3108.52 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1930 kg (4254.92 lbs.) |
| Max load | 520 kg (1146.4 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 64 l (16.91 US gal | 14.08 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs.) |
| Length | 4680 mm (184.25 in.) |
| Width | 1780 mm (70.08 in.) |
| Height | 1435 mm (56.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2675 mm (105.31 in.) |
| Front track | 1550 mm (61.02 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1550 mm (61.02 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 130 mm (5.12 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.8 m (35.43 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 | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 H |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
The Mazda 6, internally designated the GG/GY/GG1 generation, was a mid-size sedan manufactured by Mazda from 2002 to 2008. It replaced the aging 626 and represented a significant step forward for the brand, aiming for a more contemporary design and improved driving experience. The 2.0 CD variant, powered by a 121 horsepower diesel engine, was particularly important in European markets, where diesel fuel was favored for its efficiency. Production of this specific configuration spanned from 2002 to 2005, positioning it as a practical and economical option within the broader Mazda 6 range.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Mazda 6 2.0 CD’s engine was the RF5C, a 1.998-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine employed a common rail direct injection system, enabling precise fuel delivery and enhanced combustion. A turbocharger and intercooler were integrated to increase power output to 121 horsepower at 3500 rpm and 310 Nm (228.64 lb-ft) of torque at 2000 rpm. The engine featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. Its high compression ratio of 18.3:1, typical for diesel engines of the period, contributed to its fuel efficiency. While a five-speed manual transmission was standard, a five-speed automatic transmission was also offered, though less frequently chosen.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 CD Mazda 6 offered a good balance between fuel economy and acceptable performance. While not designed for sporty driving, the 121 hp engine and 310 Nm of torque provided sufficient power for daily commutes and longer journeys. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 10.8 seconds, with a top speed of 198 km/h (123 mph). The manual transmission provided precise gear changes, while the automatic, though smoother, resulted in a slight reduction in performance. Compared to the gasoline engines available in the Mazda 6 lineup, the 2.0 CD prioritized fuel efficiency. The diesel engine’s torque curve delivered usable power from low engine speeds, making it suitable for overtaking and highway cruising.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 CD trim level generally included standard features like air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, and a basic audio system. Higher trim levels added features such as alloy wheels, a sunroof, and upgraded interior upholstery. Interior materials were of reasonable quality for the price point, emphasizing practicality and durability. Optional extras included a CD changer, leather seats, and a navigation system. Safety features included ABS brakes and dual front airbags, with side airbags available on some models.
Chassis & Braking
The Mazda 6 GG/GY generation utilized a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout. The suspension consisted of MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear, providing a comfortable ride and reasonable handling characteristics. The 2.0 CD models typically had ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear. The steering was a rack-and-pinion system, offering responsive and accurate control. The chassis was engineered to balance rigidity and weight, contributing to the car’s overall stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mazda 6 2.0 CD was well-received in European markets, where diesel engines were popular due to their fuel efficiency and lower operating costs. Reviewers praised the car’s attractive design, comfortable interior, and refined driving experience. Compared to other diesel-powered sedans in its class, the Mazda 6 offered a competitive combination of performance, economy, and value. The 2.0 CD was often considered a more sensible alternative to the higher-performance gasoline models, appealing to drivers who valued practicality and fuel savings. Fuel economy figures around 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg) were considered excellent for a vehicle of its size.
Legacy
The Mazda 6 GG/GY generation, including the 2.0 CD variant, helped establish Mazda as a significant player in the mid-size sedan segment. The RF5C diesel engine proved to be generally reliable, although, like all diesel engines, it required regular maintenance and careful servicing. Today, well-maintained examples of the Mazda 6 2.0 CD can still be found on the used car market, offering a cost-effective and fuel-efficient transportation option. While not a highly sought-after collector’s item, the car remains a popular choice for those seeking a dependable and practical sedan.
