2011 Mazda5 Compact Van Gets New 1.6l Diesel Unit

Mazda Motor Europe announced today the addition of a 1.6-liter common-rail diesel unit to its C-MAV line-up, which is set to offer customers low CO2 emission levels, a low fuel consumption and a sporty driving feel. The unit, sporting a 8-valve single camshaft (SOHC) layout, is mated to a six-speed manual lightweight transmission.

Mazda brags the new Mazda5 1.6 diesel is 120 kg (265 lbs) lighter than the powertrain it replaces, which contributes to lower fuel consumption.

The new unit produces 5 PS more power than the 2.0-litre diesel standard power version it replaces, while using 14.8 percent less fuel and producing 13.2 percent less CO2. This means it develops 115 PS and 270 Nm of maximum torque, it has a top speed of 180 km/h (112 mph) and a combined fuel consumption of 5.2l/100km (45.2 US mpg) and emits 138g/km, complying with the Euro V standards.

“For the engine line-up of the new Mazda5, we placed emphasis on environmental performance and fuel economy. This aim led us to use Mazda’s 2.0-litre direct-injection petrol engine with i-stop, and to replace the 2.0-litre diesel engine with a newly developed 1.6-litre turbo diesel unit that leads the class in low CO2 emission levels,” stated Hideki Matsuoka, Programme Manager Mazda5.

Visually, the new Mazda5 introduced a completely new exterior that employs Nagare-flow design, the new Mazda front face, a “hidden” D-pillar and new horizontal rear lamps.

Interior highlights include a new dashboard, steering wheel and centre stack, along with new seats, materials, colors (one all-new color called Clear Water Blue) and seat fabrics. In addition, the new Mazda5 has room for up to seven people and its seats can be easily folded for a variety of configurations, including Mazda’s unique Karakuri seat-folding functionality.

Pricing of the 2011 Mazda5 1.6 diesel is yet to be announced.