The Mazda SKYACTIV-X is a 2,000 cc, naturally aspirated, spark-controlled compression ignition (SPCCI) petrol engine produced from 2019 onwards. It features a high 15.0:1 compression ratio, direct fuel injection, and a supercharger to enable lean-burn combustion by using spark ignition to trigger controlled auto-ignition of the air-fuel mixture, delivering diesel-like efficiency with petrol performance characteristics.
Fitted to the Mazda3, CX-30, and CX-5, the SKYACTIV-X was engineered for refined drivability with low-end torque and improved fuel economy under light-load conditions. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalyst and precise air-fuel control, allowing all models to meet Euro 6d-TEMP and Euro 6d standards for their production period.
One documented concern is misfire sensitivity under low-load, high-altitude conditions, highlighted in Mazda Service Bulletin M-20-03. This issue stems from inconsistent compression ignition stability when ambient pressure reduces cylinder charge density. Mazda introduced revised ignition timing maps and enhanced sensor calibration in late 2020 production, significantly improving combustion reliability across diverse environments.
Mazda
Production years 2019–2021 meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards; 2022–present models comply with Euro 6d (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/ENG/142).
The Mazda SKYACTIV-X is a 2,000 cc, four-cylinder, spark-controlled compression ignition (SPCCI) petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size vehicles (2019–present). It combines ultra-high compression with direct injection and a supercharger to achieve lean-burn combustion, delivering diesel-like thermal efficiency while maintaining petrol responsiveness. Designed to meet Euro 6d emissions standards, it balances everyday efficiency with driving dynamics.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated with electric supercharger | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.5 mm × 91.2 mm | |
| Power output | 132–145 kW (180–197 PS) | |
| Torque | 224–240 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (20 MPa), multi-hole injectors | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d-TEMP (2019–2021); Euro 6d (2022–present) | |
| Compression ratio | 15.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Supercharger | Electrically driven centrifugal supercharger | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshafts | |
| Oil type | Mazda Genuine Oil 0W-20 | |
| Dry weight | 138 kg |
The SPCCI technology delivers exceptional low-RPM torque and fuel efficiency under partial load but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals to maintain combustion stability and prevent carbon buildup on spark plugs. Mazda Genuine 0W-20 oil is critical due to its low viscosity and low SAPS formulation protecting the direct injectors and combustion chamber. Extended idling or frequent short trips can degrade ignition reliability; warm-up cycles should be gradual. Fuel must meet premium octane (RON 95 minimum) to prevent pre-ignition. Post-2021 models feature revised ignition maps per Mazda SIB M-20-03 to improve altitude adaptability.
Oil Specs: Requires Mazda Genuine Oil 0W-20 (Mazda SIB M-20-03). Supersedes API SN/SP specifications.
Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to all 2022+ units (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/ENG/142). Pre-2022 models meet Euro 6d-TEMP.
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. 197 PS output requires RON 95+ fuel quality (Mazda TIS Doc. S-X-04).
Mazda Technical Information System (TIS): Docs S-X-01, S-X-02, S-X-03, S-X-04
JAMA Type Approval Database (JAMA/ENG/142)
JIS D 1001 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Mazda SKYACTIV-X was used exclusively across Mazda's BJ/BK platforms with transverse mounting and licensed solely to Mazda for use in front-wheel-drive applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised intake runners for the CX-30 and enhanced ECU calibration for the Mazda3—and from 2022 the model update introduced revised ignition maps and supercharger control logic, creating interchange limits. No external licensing partnerships exist for this engine. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left side of the cylinder head near the camshaft cover (Mazda TIS S-X-01). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('G' for SKYACTIV-X). All units feature a distinctive electric supercharger mounted atop the intake manifold. Critical differentiation from SKYACTIV-G: The SKYACTIV-X has an additional electric supercharger, dual-stage fuel injectors, and a unique high-pressure combustion pressure sensor. Service parts require production date verification - ignition coils and ECU software for pre-2022 models are incompatible with post-update units due to revised SPCCI control algorithms (Mazda SIB M-20-03).
The SKYACTIV-X's primary reliability risk is misfire under low-load, high-altitude conditions, with elevated incidence in mountainous regions. Mazda internal reports from 2021 showed over 15% of early builds experienced intermittent misfires beyond 50,000 km, while JAMA repair data linked 30% of combustion-related warranty claims to degraded ignition stability. Cold starts and prolonged idling reduce combustion chamber temperature, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mazda technical bulletins (2019–2023) and JAMA failure statistics (2020–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MAZDA SKYACTIV-X.
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