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2011 Mazda5 1.6D Review

January 2011
Filed under: MAZDA Car News | MAZDA Headlines

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Mazda5 1.6D European Introduced during 2010, the New Mazda5 is already a big hit with European customers, especially those with active lifestyles who drive a high mileage. Mazda now completes its new C-MAV line-up with the launch of a 1.6-litre common-rail diesel version.

With this engine under the bonnet, the New Mazda5 offers customers a powerful, small-displacement turbo diesel that is frugal, affordable and fun to drive. When developing the new diesel version Mazda engineers set two key priorities - class leading, low CO2 emission levels combined with low fuel consumption and a sporty and powerful driving feel.

Mazda5 1.6 Diesel 2011

New 1.6 diesel engine
* New MZ-CD 1.6-litre common-rail diesel engine with six-speed manual transmission * Variable-geometry turbocharger
* Lightweight aluminium construction with SOHC cylinder head design
* New Mazda5 1.6 Diesel weighs up to 120kg less than the model it replaces
* Common-rail injection system with piezo injectors
* Produces 85 kW/115 PS (+ 5 PS vs. previous-generation 2.0-litre diesel Standard Power) at 3,600 rpm
* 270 Nm of maximum torque now across a wider engine speed range of 1,750 - 2,500 rpm for dynamic driving coupled with low fuel consumption
* 14.8 percent reduction in fuel consumption at 5.2 litres per 100km (combined)
* 13.2 percent reduction in CO2 emissions to 138g/km and Euro V compliance
* Diesel particulate filter (DPF) system maintenance-free

Design
* New Mazda family face
* 8 exterior colours including one all-new colour called Clear Water Blue Metallic
* Excellent, low drag Cd value for a compact vehicle at 0.30

Interior Functionality & Equipment
* Room for up to seven with Mazda Karakuri seat functionality
* 2nd and 3rd row leg room amongst the best in C-MAV segment
* Front of 2nd row centre seat cushion now extended by 50mm, with seatback extended downward by 50mm for more comfort
* Noise insulation reduces wind noise by approximately 10 percent over the previous Mazda5
* Bluetooth® audio system that plays MP3 players cordless (optional)*
* 4 GB navigation system with hands-free Bluetooth® operation, large 14.7 cm touch screen monitor, maps covering 99 percent of Europe's major markets, integrated CD player + radio, USB connectivity, full iPod® and iPhone® compatibility and 18 languages (optional)*
* Two sliding rear doors that hug the sides of the rear panels (sticking out just 159 mm) for easy parking even in tight spots
* Depending on market and grade

Driving Dynamics
* Exceptional linearity and a balanced driving feel ("Toitsu-Kan" principle), whether accelerating, turning or decelerating, that provides both driver and passengers with a pleasant and secure ride
* Reworked suspension system and steering components added to improve linear operating feel for more predictability and control

Safety
* As standard: six airbags, four-channel ABS, electric brake-force distribution (EBD), brake assist, Emergency Stop Signal (ESS), Traction Control System (TCS) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
* First global vehicle to introduce Mazda's Brake Override System (prioritises brake pedal over throttle pedal in an emergency situation)
* Tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) standard for 17-inch wheels
* New, highly sensitive touch-sensor strip at the front edge of each power sliding door detects minor obstructions more accurately than previous model, and automatically reverses the direction of the door
* New latch mechanism for the sliding doors holds them in place more securely during side impact
* Pedestrian safety measures improved by the revised specifications of the hood and front bumper

Mazda 5 1.6 Diesel 2011
2. Introduction

Small C-MAV, Big Value
Introduced during 2010, the New Mazda5 is already a big hit with European customers, especially those with active lifestyles who drive a high mileage. Mazda now completes its new C-MAV line-up with the launch of a 1.6-litre common-rail diesel version. With this engine under the bonnet, the New Mazda5 offers customers a powerful, small-displacement turbo diesel that is frugal, affordable and fun to drive. When developing the new diesel version Mazda engineers set two key priorities - class leading, low CO2 emission levels combined with low fuel consumption and a sporty and powerful driving feel.

"For the engine line-up of the New Mazda5, we placed emphasis on environmental performance and fuel economy. This aim led us to use Mazda's 2.0-litre direct-injection petrol engine with i-stop, and to replace the previous 2.0-litre diesel engine with a newly developed 1.6-litre turbo diesel unit that leads the class in low CO2 emission levels."
Hideki Matsuoka, Programme Manager Mazda5

Because the 1.6-litre diesel has a smaller-displacement, an aluminium-alloy block and an 8-valve single camshaft (SOHC) layout, and is mated to a compact and lightweight transmission, the New Mazda5 1.6 Diesel is up to 120 kg lighter than the model it replaces, which contributes to lower fuel consumption.

It is also a highly efficient engine. Engineers optimized the mechanical parts of the 8-valve SOHC for low friction, and employed highly-efficient Piezo injectors, all of which contribute to superior combustion efficiency. As a result, the New Mazda5 1.6-litre diesel produces 5ps more power than the 2.0-litre diesel (standard power version) it replaces, while using 14.8 percent less fuel and producing 13.2 percent less CO2. It will appeal especially to customers with active lifestyles looking for a flexible, do-it-all C-MAV with affordable operating costs and superior emissions performance.

Mazda 5 1.6 Diesel 2011
3. Powertrain

Lighter, more Fuel-Efficient and Quieter
Not only is the new diesel cleaner, it is also lighter than the engine it replaces thanks to it's compact size, aluminium block and SOHC layout, with big benefits for fuel consumption. Overall, the Mazda5 1.6 Diesel is 120 kg lighter, uses only 5.2 litres per 100km of fuel and achieves Euro V compliance. It does this in various ways, including using a low compression ratio of only 16:1 -- which lowers the combustion temperature -- and a highly-efficient exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) cooler and EGR cooler bypass system. This enables the engine to warm up faster and reach peak combustion efficiency quicker from cold.

This 8-valve SOHC layout is also less complicated with fewer moving parts than a DOHC system, which means that valve train friction is reduced and NVH performance of the engine is optimised. This included enhancing the precision of the injection system by employing new Piezo injectors that inject fuel at up to 1,600 bar. These injectors allow more precise injection control and multi-point injection to realise smoother combustion. These features - coupled to the New Mazda5's already extensive sound insulation measures - result in a smooth-running diesel C-MAV that is comfortable to drive in every situation.

New Turbocharger, Higher Output
The variable-geometry turbocharger (VGT) helps the engine produce a maximum torque of 270 Nm available across a wider rev range (between 1,750 and 2,500rpm) for improved day-to-day driving. Together with a maximum power output of 85 kW/115 PS at just 3,600rpm, the generous torque supports a dynamic yet comfortable and easy-to-control performance feel; and allows Mazda5 to reach top speed of 180km/h (112mph) in sixth gear.

Clean-Running Maintenance-Free DPF
Mazda5's new diesel also introduces a new maintenance-free diesel particulate filter (DPF) system. The new 1.6-litre diesel uses an oxidation catalyst to increase the exhaust gas temperature and improve particulate combustion. This is user-friendly and also reduces costs for the customer.

Mazda5 1.6 Diesel 2011
4. The New Mazda5

Unique Styling & Enhanced Interior Quality
The New Mazda5 introduced a completely new exterior look that employs Nagare-flow design features, the new Mazda front face, a `hidden' D-pillar and new horizontal rear lamps for a fresh appeal that is unique to the C-MAV segment. On the inside, Mazda5 has a new dashboard, steering wheel and centre stack, along with new seats, materials, colours and seat fabrics for enhanced quality feel.

Family-Friendly Practicality, Storage and Comfort
Immensely practical, the double sliding rear doors can be opened automatically* or manually, and one of the largest rear door openings in the segment, enable easier access and exit than rival vehicles. The Mazda5 has room for up to seven people and its seats can be easily folded for a variety of seat configurations, including Mazda's unique Karakuri seat-folding functionality. It has numerous storage possibilities including an eight litre sub-trunk box*, six cupholders, two bottle holders and an 11-litre glove box. There are also two popup tables with cupholders in the back of the front seats.

The cabin of the New Mazda5 is a comfortable place to be, offering one of the most generous 2nd and 3rd row legrooms in the C-MAV segment. The front section of the driver/passenger centre arm rest is 15mm wider, and the 2nd row seats can be adjusted to a maximum recline angle of 50° and slide-adjusted over a range of 270mm. The floor is raised toward the back of the vehicle to give passengers in the back two rows a clear view ahead and diagonally across the cabin.

Ventilation outlets for the New Mazda5 are now placed higher than on the previous generation, which improves comfort in the cabin on cold or hot days and the rear passengers benefit from air ducts placed under the front seats. The cabin is also quieter and more comfortable at higher speeds with wind noise cut by 10 percent, reduced suspension vibration and engine intake noise, plus the fitting of new foam insulation.
* Depending on market and grade

Powertrain Line-up with new Mazda i-stop
Mazda's new C-MAV has an engine line-up that focuses on Zoom-Zoom driving fun coupled to low consumption and emissions. Besides the new MZ-CD 1.6 diesel, there are two petrol engines available, both with smooth, precise-shifting six-speed manual transmissions. Topping the range is the MZR 2.0 DISI petrol engine with direct-injection and i-stop, Mazda's stop/start technology that offers great performance coupled to double-digit reductions in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. It produces 110kW/150ps of power at 6,200rpm and 191Nm of torque at 4,500rpm, to deliver a top speed of 194 km/h (121mph). Despite all this power, it uses 13 percent less fuel (6.9 litres per 100 km) and produces 15 percent less CO2 (159g/km) than the naturally-aspirated 2.0-litre petrol it replaced.

This engine is joined by an updated version of the popular MZR 1.8 petrol engine with a maximum output of 85 kW/115ps at 5,300 rpm and maximum torque of 165Nm at 4,000rpm. It is newly mated to the six-speed manual transmission with a higher top gear ratio, which helps to lower fuel consumption by 4 percent (to 7.2 litres per 100 km), CO2 emissions by 6 percent (to 168g/km) and to comply with Euro V.

Chassis
When developing the new model, Mazda focused on achieving a "Harmonised Dynamic Driving Feel" (named `Toitsu-Kan') and the result is an exceptional linearity in all responses - whether accelerating, turning or stopping. This provides both driver and passengers with a pleasant and stable ride quality.

Furthermore, the New Mazda5's monocoque bodyshell is designed with more high and ultra high-tensile steel reinforcements to be lighter, stiffer and more crash-resistant than its predecessor. Engineers added new suspension, steering and aerodynamic components that deliver a more linear steering feel for more control and predictability. These chassis updates are especially beneficial when combined with the updated 1.6 diesel version of the new Mazda5, which is 120 kg lighter than the 2.0-litre diesel it replaces, ensuring that this version has handling attributes that make it both agile and easy to control.

Improved Body and Suspension Stiffness for More Control
Chassis engineers also improved local stiffness at bodyshell locations which enhance vehicle control. They enlarged the cross-section for the D-pillars, the upper part of the liftgate, and the corner radius of the liftgate opening, which stiffened the rear of the vehicle and lowers liftgate opening displacement by 17percent compared to the previous Mazda5. Up front, additional spot welds were added to the apron section of the front damper top mounts and at the base of the B-pillars, and a closed-section structure was adopted for the rear pillars to increase rigidity at belt-line level.

The suspension layout for the New Mazda5 employs MacPherson struts in front and a multi-link suspension at the rear, twin-tube dampers in the front and separate coil springs and monotube dampers with integrated rebound springs at the back. To deliver a linear driving feel, engineers introduced new rubber couplings to the steering shaft joint section and stabiliser (anti-roll bar) mounts, modified the dampers and bushings for both the front and rear suspension, and increased all spring rates. These combined changes deliver a smoother response during acceleration, deceleration and when cornering, and also improve straight-line stability when driving at motorway speeds.

New Aerodynamic Design
The new front end design of the New Mazda5 not only sets it apart from other C-MAV's, it also contributes to an aerodynamic performance that is unusually good for a C-MAV. A new front lip spoiler, a flat engine underfloor cover and front tyre deflectors work together to channel the air under the vehicle efficiently, which reduces drag and helps to keep fuel consumption down. The design of the vehicle is also optimised to improve the lift balance at the front and back. These measures give the New Mazda5 a drag coefficient of just Cd 0.30, one of the lowest in the C-MAV segment.

Passive and Active Safety
The New Mazda5 includes a generous standard safety package, with six airbags - front, side and curtain - and active safety features including large 300mm ventilated disc brakes in the front and 302mm rear brakes, four-channel ABS, electric brake-force distribution (EBD), brake assist, traction control (TCS) and DSC; and an Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) that warns the cars behind of a sudden braking manoeuvre by automatically flashing the hazard lights rapidly.

With the 17-inch wheels, a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) is standard. A further enhancement to the Mazda5's safety is the first-ever employment of Mazda's Brake Override System, which always prioritizes the brake pedal over the accelerator pedal should both be engaged simultaneously, allowing the vehicle to be brought to a safe stop.

Using Mazda5's two electric sliding back doors* is now even safer with the introduction of a new, highly sensitive touch-sensor strip, running the length of the door's leading edge, that automatically and dependably returns the door to the open position if obstructed. A park-assist system is also available with four sensors in the rear bumper that continuously measure the distance to any object when parking in reverse gear.
* Depending on market and grade

Equipment
The New Mazda5 is loaded with equipment that makes the trip fun and easy. It can be equipped, for instance, with an affordable, integrated navigation system as an option that delivers 99 percent coverage of Europe's major markets. It has 4 GB memory and 18 languages, a large 14.7 cm touch screen monitor, and a hands-free Bluetooth® telephone and audio connection with external microphone. This equipment package also comes with an integrated CD player + radio that includes iPod®, iPhone® (via optional connector cable) and MP3 CD capability, an AUX jack and steering-wheel controls.

The standard equipment package features power-adjustable side mirrors, manual air-conditioning, driver seat height adjustment, power windows front and back with one-touch driver window operation, and power door locks. Also standard is a new four-speaker audio system with digital signal processor (DSP) technology that reduces unwanted radio noise, and a double tuner (exclusively for Europe) that ensures clear radio reception. It also has a FIX-EQ audio system that automatically optimises sound characteristics according to the interior space.

Available equipment items include rear parking sensors, seat heating, an in-dash 6 CD changer, Bluetooth® audio functionality for playing an MP3 player, a Bluetooth® telephone system with voice recognition and upgraded steering wheel control and Xenon headlamps - among many other features.

Mazda5 1.6 Diesel 2011
5. Technical Specifications

Body Type Monocoque
Doors 2 hinged front /2 sliding back / rear liftgate
Seating capacity 5-seat / 7-seat Karakuri system
Coefficient of drag Cd 0.30
Cross-sectional area m2 2.46

Boot measurements (seven seats)*
Volume all seats up (to belt line) 112 litres
Volume all seats up (floor to ceiling) 158
Volume 3rd row down (to belt line) 426
Volume 2nd and 3rd rows down
(to belt line) 857*
Volume 2nd and 3rd rows down
(floor to ceiling) 1,485**
Height floor to ceiling 902 mm
Liftgate opening width 1,125 mm
* without sub trunk with a space of 8 litres
** measured with front seat slide-adjustment in the middle position

Boot measurements (five seats)
Volume all seats up (to belt line) 538 litres
Volume all seats up (floor to ceiling) 892
Volume 2nd row down (to belt line) 969
Volume 2nd row down (floor to ceiling) 1,597*
Liftgate opening width 1,125 mm
* measured with front seat slide-adjustment in the middle position

Dimensions External
A Overall length mm 4,585
B Overall width mm 1,750
C Overall height mm 1,615
D Wheelbase mm 2,750
E Track front mm 1,530
F Track rear mm 1,520
G Ground clearance mm 130
Interior
H Front head room mm 1,034
I 2nd row head room mm 1,000
J 3rd row head room mm 942
K Front shoulder room mm 1,409
L 2nd row shoulder room mm 1,410
M 3rd row shoulder room mm 1,251
N Front leg room mm 1,035
O 2nd row leg room mm 1,001
P 3rd row leg room mm 775
Q Sliding door opening width mm 686

Mazda5 1.6 Diesel 2011 / Technical Specifications
Powertrain
MZ-CD 1.6
Engine Type In-line 4-cylinder SOHC, 8-valve
Displacement cc 1,560
Bore x stroke mm 75.0 x 88.3
Valves 2 per cylinder
Camshaft drive Timing belt
Fuel injection system Common-rail direct injection
Compression ratio 16.0: 1
Emission control system Electronically controlled w/catalyst + DPF
Max. power kW 85 at 3,600 rpm
PS 115 at 3,600 rpm
Max. torque Nm
Fuel type l Diesel
* Diesel Particulate Filter

Transmission 6-speed manual
Gear ratios
1st 3.727:1
2nd 2.048:1
3rd 1.258:1
4th 0.919:1
5th 0.738:1
6th 0.622:1
Reverse 3.818:1
Final drive ratio 3.824:1

Suspension and Wheels
Front suspension MacPherson struts
Rear suspension Twintube
Damper front Monotube
Stabilisers (front / rear) diameter 21 / 19 mm
Tyre size 205/55 R16 91V
205/50 R17 93V
Wheel size 16 x 6.5J
17 x 6.5J
Steering
Type Rack & pinion
Assistance Electro-hydraulic
Steering wheel turns (lock to lock) 2.9
Turning diameter (curb to curb) 10.6 metres
Turning diameter (wall to wall) 11.2 metres

Brakes
Type front Ventilated discs
Type rear Solid discs
Diameter front 300 mm
Diameter rear 302 mm
Vacuum booster diameter 10 inch
Scheduled maintenance Every 20,000 km/12 months

Mazda5 1.6 Diesel 2011 /- Technical Specifications
Performance
MZ-CD 1.6
Top speed 180 km/h (112 mph)
Acceleration 0-100 km/h* 13.7 seconds
Acceleration 80 - 120 km/h in 5th gear 11.4 seconds

Fuel Consumption**
Urban l/100 km 6.4
Extra urban l/100 km 4.6
Combined l/100 km 5.2
CO2 emissions (combined) g/km 138
Emissions ranking Euro V
* Under Mazda test conditions
** According to EC 715/2007

Weights and Payload
Min. kerb weight (without driver) kg 1,415
Min. kerb weight* kg 1,490
Max. permissible weight kg 2,125
Permissible front axle weight kg kg 1,020
Permissible rear axle weight kg 1,205
Towing capacity (12% slope) kg 1,200
Permissible tow weight,
trailer without brakes (12% slope) kg 600
* According to 92/21/EEC in its latest version (including 75 kg driver)

MARKET INFORMATION
The United Kingdom

Two New Mazda5 1.6-litre diesel models cut CO2 emissions to just 138g/km
Choice of TS2 and Sport models, priced from £20,650 and £21,950 (OTR)
Upgraded equipment levels with air-conditioning and Dynamic Stability Control as standard
Typical 0% APR* and 5.9% APR** finance packages available up to 36 months
New Mazda5 is now available with a new, super-efficient version of Mazda's 1.6-litre diesel, which is also available in the Mazda3. This Euro5 compliant, 1.6-litre MZ-CD diesel engine produces 115ps and 270Nm of torque from just 1,750rpm. It has 4.5 percent more power than the previous Mazda5's `low power' 2-litre unit, delivering faster acceleration, together with a 17.2 percent improvement in fuel consumption and 13.2 percent reduction in CO2 emissions - down to just 138g/km. This engine features a new low friction, eight-valve, SOHC layout and its aluminium block and smaller-displacement cylinders make it a lightweight, compact and extremely efficient unit. It is mated to a six-speed manual transmission.

The arrival of two diesel derivatives (TS2 and Sport) expands the revised line-up for its New Mazda5 Compact Multi-Activity Vehicles (C-MAV) for 2011 to five models. With upgraded equipment - representing even greater value - `first in class' sliding rear doors and `6 plus one' seating, the entire New Mazda5 range will maintain its appeal as a great family car that also delivers a truly sporty driving experience in the best Mazda tradition.

The New Mazda5 has a completely new exterior with a visual appeal that is unique to the C-MAV segment. Measuring 4,585mm overall, New Mazda5 retains the 2,750mm wheelbase and boasts an aerodynamic Cd of just 0.30.

When upgrading New Mazda5, the company's engineers added improved suspension, steering and aerodynamic components that deliver a more linear steering feel for more control and assured predictability, a smoother ride plus improved refinement. The cabin is now quieter and more comfortable at higher speeds, with wind noise reduced by 10 percent.

"We will continue to market New Mazda5 as a fine handling family car that has our brand's typically high driver appeal, and now comes with lower emissions, improved refinement and excellent aerodynamic efficiency, plus a full complement of practical abilities to carry families in considerable comfort and safety. The availability of power sliding rear doors on Sport models with remote operation highlights the convenience of Mazda5 ownership. All models have a uniquely innovative interior - with easy-fold seating and great storage flexibility," comments Mark Cameron, Sales Director, Mazda UK.

On the inside, Mazda5 has a new dashboard that makes the front passenger area seem larger than before, a new steering wheel and centre stack, along with more comfortable seats, high quality materials and a new black seat fabric for enhanced quality feel. The third row seats are a 50/50 split design and can be independently dropped flat into the floor.

Every New Mazda5 has had its already generous standard specification raised to an even higher level. The entry diesel model (1.6D TS2) model retains the 13 new items of equipment on the TS and brings customers privacy glass, rear parking sensors, automatic climate control air-conditioning, automatic wipers and headlights, a trip computer and Bluetooth® hands-free system. Range-topping 1.6D Sport models add 17-inch alloy wheels, a dark silver front grille, front fog lights, body-coloured side skirts and rear spoiler, leather seat trim, heated front seats, and power sliding rear doors.

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