The Mazda RTK is a 1,998 cc, inline-four, turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2014 and 2018. It features direct fuel injection, variable valve timing (VVT), and a twin-scroll turbocharger delivering responsive power. High compression ratio enables efficient combustion, providing strong low-end torque for everyday drivability.
Fitted to models such as the CX-5, CX-3, and Mazda 3, the RTK was engineered for balanced performance and fuel economy. Emissions compliance was achieved through direct injection, three-way catalytic conversion, and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing all models to meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards depending on market application.
One documented concern is carbon buildup on intake valves due to port fuel injection absence, highlighted in Mazda Service Information Bulletin SIB-17-002. This accumulation can cause rough idle and misfires. Mazda recommends periodic induction cleaning using approved methods and does not offer a factory recall.
Mazda
Production years 2014–2018 meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Mazda RTK is a 1,998 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engineered for compact and mid-size SUVs and sedans (2014-2018). It combines direct fuel injection with a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver responsive acceleration and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standards, it balances performance with fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged with twin-scroll turbocharger | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.5 mm × 91.2 mm | |
| Power output | 165–188 kW (225–256 PS) | |
| Torque | 380–420 Nm @ 1,800–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d-TEMP | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Twin-scroll turbocharger (Mitsubishi Heavy Industries) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Mazda Genuine 0W-20 | |
| Dry weight | 158 kg |
The GDI system provides high specific power but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals to prevent intake valve carbon buildup. Mazda Genuine 0W-20 oil is critical due to its low ash formulation minimizing deposit formation. Extended idling or frequent short trips accelerate carbon accumulation. Periodic induction cleaning using approved solvent systems is recommended per SIB-17-002. Fuel must meet EN 228 standards to ensure injector integrity and prevent knock. Timing chain wear is not a known issue; however, incorrect oil specification may affect VVT operation.
Oil Specs: Requires Mazda Genuine 0W-20 specification (Mazda SIB-17-002). Supersedes ACEA C2/C3 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 6d-TEMP certification applies to all production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 188 kW output requires RON 95 minimum fuel quality (Mazda TIS Doc. A31022).
Mazda Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A31022, SIB-17-002
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Mazda RTK was used across Mazda's CX-5/CX-3/Mazda 3 platforms with transverse mounting and no licensed external use. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised intake manifold geometry in the CX-3 and tuned ECU mapping in the Mazda 3-and from 2017 the facelifted models adopted revised ECU calibration for enhanced emissions control, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the right-side cylinder head near the camshaft cover (Mazda TIS A31022). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('R' for RT series). Pre-2017 units have silver intercooler piping; post-2017 units feature black anodized piping. Critical differentiation from PY-VPS: RTK has different ECU calibration and lower peak torque output (part number suffix -K). Service parts require production date verification - air intake kits for pre-2017 models are incompatible with later units due to revised throttle body housing (Mazda SIB-17-005).
The RTK's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup, with elevated incidence in urban stop-start driving. Internal Mazda data from 2017 reported increased misfire codes in vehicles exceeding 80,000 km without induction cleaning, while UK DVSA MOT records show a rising trend of emissions-related failures linked to restricted airflow. Low-speed driving and infrequent high-RPM operation exacerbate deposit formation, making regular induction cleaning critical.
Analysis derived from Mazda technical bulletins (2015-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MAZDA RTK.
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