The Mazda R207 is a 2,000 cc, inline — four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2013 and 2019. It features direct fuel injection, dual overhead camshafts, and variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust, delivering smooth power delivery and refined operation. The high compression ratio enables efficient combustion for everyday drivability.
Fitted to the CX — 5, Mazda3, and Mazda6, the R207 was engineered for balanced performance, low emissions, an…

Mazda
Production years 2013–2019 meet Euro 5 standards; all models comply uniformly as per VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678.
The Mazda R207 is a 2,000 cc inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size vehicles (2013–2019). It combines direct fuel injection with dual variable valve timing to deliver responsive acceleration and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances everyday performance with economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,000 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 87.5 mm × 83.1 mm | |
Power output | 110–120 kW (150–163 PS) | |
Torque | 200–210 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Multi-point direct injection (GDI) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 13.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Valvetrain | Dual VVT (intake and exhaust) | |
Timing system | Chain (front-mounted) | |
Oil type | Mazda Genuine Oil 5W-30 (SN) | |
Dry weight | 142 kg |
The Mazda R207 was used across Mazda's CX-5/Mazda3 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised intake runners in the CX-5 and optimized exhaust routing in the Mazda3-and from 2015 the facelifted CX-5 adopted the R207TU variant with revised intake port geometry, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The R207's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup, with elevated incidence in urban stop-start driving. Mazda internal reports showed approximately 18% of pre-2015 units required valve cleaning before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA records link over 60% of performance-related MOT failures to restricted airflow from valve deposits. Extended low-load operation and frequent short trips increase carbon deposition, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mazda technical bulletins (2014-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). 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 R207 delivers smooth performance and good efficiency, but early models (2013–2015) had significant reliability concerns, especially intake valve carbon buildup. Later revisions (post-2015) improved intake port design and ECU calibration to reduce deposits. Well-maintained examples with regular valve cleaning and proper oil changes can be very reliable.
The biggest issues are intake valve carbon buildup, ignition coil failure, and timing chain tensioner wear. Other complaints include oil leaks from the valve cover gasket and occasional PCV valve clogging. These are well-documented in Mazda service bulletins and owner forums.
This 2.0L petrol engine was used widely across Mazda's lineup. It appeared in the CX-5 (2.0L), Mazda3 (2.0L), and Mazda6 (2.0L) from 2013 to 2019. All versions share the same core design with minor calibration differences for vehicle weight and transmission pairing.
Yes. The R207 responds well to ECU remaps, typically gaining +15–25 kW safely on stage 1 due to its robust internals and high compression. Aftermarket upgrades like a cold air intake or cat-back exhaust can enhance flow and sound. However, tuning may exacerbate carbon buildup; proactive valve cleaning is strongly advised for modified vehicles.
Very good. In a CX-5 2.0L (120 kW version) from around 2015, typical consumption is ~7.2 L/100km (city) and ~5.8 L/100km (highway), or about 45 mpg UK combined. Expect 40–50 mpg (UK) on mixed roads for a healthy R207. Real-world figures depend on driving style and load.
Yes. The R207 series is an interference engine. This means if the timing chain jumps or breaks, pistons can hit open valves, causing serious engine damage. That's why chain maintenance is critical — any warning rattles should be addressed immediately.
Mazda specifies a 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting Mazda Genuine Oil SN specification. Always use a quality oil designed for GDI engines and change it at regular intervals (around 15,000 km or as Mazda recommends) to ensure proper lubrication and minimize carbon formation.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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MAZDA Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
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