The Mazda K819 is a 2,488 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and Mazda's Skyactiv — G direct injection technology. This engine was designed for a balance of power and refinement, delivering outputs around 140 kW (190 PS) and 252 Nm of torque, making it suitable for larger Mazda SUVs.
Fitted primarily to the second — generation CX — 5 (KF) and the first — generation CX — 8 (KJ),…
Mazda
Production years 2018–2023 meet Euro 6d standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9876).
The Mazda K819 is a 2,488 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-size SUVs (2018-2023). It combines Skyactiv-G direct injection with a high compression ratio to deliver smooth, refined performance and efficient fuel consumption. Designed to meet Euro 6d standards, it balances power with environmental compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,488 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 100.0 mm | |
Power output | 140 kW (190 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
Torque | 252 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Direct Injection (Skyactiv-G) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6d | |
Compression ratio | 13.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC | |
Oil type | Mazda Genuine 0W-20 | |
Dry weight | 135 kg |
The Mazda K819 was used across Mazda's KF and KJ platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the CX-8 for its 7-seat configuration-creating minor service part variations. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The K819's primary reliability risk is elevated oil consumption in early production batches, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips. Mazda internal quality reports noted a correlation between oil consumption and specific piston ring batches, while owner feedback frequently cites low oil level warnings. Maintaining strict oil quality and change schedules is critical, and affected engines should be inspected per the service bulletin.
Analysis derived from Mazda technical bulletins (2018-2023) and aggregated owner-reported failure data (2020-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The K819 is generally a very reliable and robust engine. Its main known issue is elevated oil consumption affecting a subset of early 2019 production vehicles, which Mazda addressed with a service bulletin. With regular servicing using the correct 0W-20 oil, the K819 can easily surpass 250,000 km without major issues.
The most frequent issues are elevated oil consumption (specific to early 2019 builds), carbon buildup on intake valves, degradation of PCV system components, and occasional VVT solenoid failure. These are generally manageable with proper maintenance and adherence to service bulletins.
The K819 engine was primarily used in the second-generation Mazda CX-5 (KF chassis, 2018-2023) and the first-generation Mazda CX-8 (KJ chassis, 2018-2022). It was the standard 2.5L naturally aspirated petrol engine for these models in most global markets.
Yes, the K819 responds well to tuning. A simple ECU remap can yield gains of 10-15 kW and 20-30 Nm. More aggressive modifications like a performance exhaust and intake can extract further power. The engine's high compression ratio limits forced induction without internal upgrades.
Fuel economy is respectable for a 2.5L naturally aspirated petrol engine. Expect combined figures of around 7.5 L/100km (38 mpg UK) for the CX-5 and 8.0 L/100km (35 mpg UK) for the heavier CX-8. Real-world consumption will vary based on driving style and conditions.
Yes. The Mazda K819 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail (an extremely rare event on this engine), the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic internal damage. Fortunately, the chain is very durable.
Mazda strongly recommends using their Genuine 0W-20 oil for optimal fuel economy and engine protection. Using the correct low-ash oil is vital for the direct injection system to minimize carbon buildup and for the longevity of the VVT system.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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