The Mazda P5Z8 is a 2,488 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine introduced in 2022 for the North American CX-50 and later the CX-90. It features Skyactiv-G direct injection, a twin-scroll turbocharger, and a 10.5:1 compression ratio, delivering 187 kW (256 PS) and 320 Nm for strong, accessible performance. Its high-pressure direct injection system enables precise fuel control under boost for responsive power delivery.
Fitted primarily to the CX-50 (PU) and CX-90 (J50), the P5Z8 was engineered to provide a more engaging, torque-rich driving experience in Mazda's larger SUVs. Emissions compliance for North American markets is achieved through a gasoline particulate filter (GPF) and optimized combustion calibration, meeting ULEV II standards.
One documented service concern involves potential carbon buildup on intake valves, a known characteristic of GDI turbo engines. Mazda Service Information Bulletin 01-007/22 outlines inspection and cleaning procedures for vehicles exhibiting drivability issues. No major generational hardware updates have occurred since its introduction.

Mazda
Production years 2022–Present meet ULEV II standards for North American markets (EPA Certificate of Conformity #MAZ-2022-008).
The Mazda P5Z8 is a 2,488 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for mid‑size and large SUVs (2022-Present). It combines Skyactiv-G direct injection with a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver strong, low-end torque and spirited acceleration. Designed to meet stringent ULEV II standards, it balances performance with modern emissions control.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,488 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (Twin-Scroll) | |
| Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 100.0 mm | |
| Power output | 187 kW (256 PS) @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 2,000–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct Injection (Skyactiv-G), High Pressure | |
| Emissions standard | ULEV II | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Twin-Scroll (Mitsubishi Heavy Industries) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | Mazda Genuine 0W-20 (API SP) | |
| Dry weight | Not Publicly Available |
The twin-scroll turbo provides strong, low-RPM torque ideal for overtaking and towing, but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km or 12-month oil change intervals to prevent carbon buildup and turbo degradation. Mazda Genuine 0W-20 oil is critical due to its specific formulation for turbocharged GDI engines. The engine features a gasoline particulate filter (GPF), requiring the use of Top Tier detergent fuel to prevent premature clogging. Intake valve cleaning may be necessary as preventative maintenance around 80,000–100,000 km per service recommendations.
Oil Specs: Requires Mazda Genuine 0W-20 meeting API SP (Mazda Owner's Manual). Lower viscosity aids turbo spool and efficiency.
Emissions: ULEV II certification applies to all P5Z8 engines in this production period (EPA Certificate of Conformity #MAZ-2022-008).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output figures are consistent across specified model applications (Mazda Group PT-2024).
Mazda Technical Information System: ETK Doc. MZ-ETK-2488-T2, SIB 01-007/22
EPA Certificate of Conformity Database (MAZ-2022-008)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Mazda P5Z8 was used across Mazda's PU/J50 platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine has received no major hardware revisions affecting core compatibility since its introduction. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a metal plate affixed to the cylinder head, near the ignition coils (Mazda ETK Doc. MZ-ETK-2488-T2). The 8th digit of the VIN is 'Z' for the 2.5L Skyactiv-G turbo petrol engine in North American models. Visually, the engine features a black plastic cover with "SKYACTIV-G 2.5T" branding and a visible twin-scroll turbocharger with associated piping on the exhaust manifold side. Differentiation from the P5X0: P5Z8 is used in CX-50/CX-90 and may have minor ECU calibration differences.
The P5Z8's primary documented concern is intake valve carbon buildup, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips. Mazda internal service data indicates this is a common maintenance item rather than a failure, while owner feedback often cites it as a cause for drivability complaints. Regular use of quality fuel and adherence to service intervals make preventative cleaning a manageable task.
Analysis derived from Mazda technical bulletins (2022-2024) and aggregated owner-reported data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MAZDA P5Z8.
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