The New Mazda3 i-stop
Published: 25th June 2009
The New Mazda3 i-stop
Mazda continues to follow its 'Sustainable Zoom-Zoom' strategy. With the launch of a Mazda unique and highly efficient start-stop system called 'i-stop' in the new Mazda3 MZR 2.0 DISI, the company takes another step down this path. This innovative system paired with direct-injection petrol technology in the new Mazda3, delivers an impressive mix of driving fun and environmental compatibility.
The unique system uses combustion energy to restart the engine quickly with only a little help by the starter motor and without using much fuel. To accomplish this, the positioning of the pistons and crankshaft, valve opening and direct petrol injection are precisely tuned with one another. The support of the electric starter motor is only required at the very beginning of restart. Initial ignition combined with an impulse to the crankshaft is able to restart the engine in an extremely smooth and fuel-efficient way, and twice as fast as conventional start-stop systems.
When i-stop shuts off the engine, illumination, the audio system and all other electric consumers continue to work. Even the climate control is still operating as usual, as long as the driver does not require the full cooling capability of the system. In this case i-stop recognizes the need to restart the engine and initiates it accordingly. The function of all systems is not interrupted during engine restart.
Combined with the direct-injection petrol engine, aerodynamic optimisation of the exterior and further measures, the new i-stop system reduces the fuel consumption of the all-new Mazda3 2.0 DISI by 14 percent in a combined cycle, compared to the first-generation Mazda3 with conventional 2.0-litre petrol.
The Mazda3 has a wide range of powertrains available to meet the diverse needs of a global market. Besides the new MZR 2.0 DISI i-stop engine with direct injection, six-speed manual and 151 PS, there are several other powertrains.
The petrol line-up includes the lively MZR 1.6-litre petrol with intake manifold fuel injection and five-speed manual producing 105 PS of maximum power at 6,000 rpm and 145 Nm of maximum torque at 4,000 rpm and the MZR 2.0-litre petrol with intake manifold fuel injection and five-speed automatic producing 150 PS of maximum power at 6,500 rpm and maximum torque of 187 Nm at 4,000 rpm.
The second-generation Mazda3 MPS, a high-performance compact with a powerful MZR 2.3 DISI turbo petrol direct-injection engine producing 260 PS of maximum power at 5,550 rpm and maximum torque of 380 Nm at 3,000 rpm and six-speed manual will be available in Europe this Autumn.
The diesel line-up features the newly-introduced MZR-CD 2.2-litre clean diesel offered in two sporty yet frugal derivatives. The Standard Power version produces 150 PS of maximum power at 3,500 rpm and 360 Nm of maximum torque between 1,800 and 2,600 rpm; while the High Power version produces 185 PS of maximum output at 3,500 rpm, and 400 Nm of maximum torque between 1,800 and 3,000 rpm. Also onboard is the very popular MZ-CD 1.6-litre common-rail diesel producing 109 PS of maximum power at 4,000 rpm and 240 Nm of maximum torque at a low 1,750 rpm. This engine uses just 4.5 litres per 100 km (combined) and emits a low 119 g/km of CO2.
Mazda Mazda3
Our Mazda Mazda3 Guide lists the full specification of the current UK Mazda3 range, including car prices, fuel consumption, dimensions and other vital data.
Price Range: n/a - £19,900
Body Styles:
Fuel:
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Models in the range: 15
We have road tested the Mazda Mazda3, to read our in-depth car reviews:
Mazda Mazda3 Review - May 2005
Mazda Mazda3 Review - Aug 2004
Mazda Mazda3 Review - Jun 2007
Mazda Mazda3 Review - Aug 2007
Mazda Mazda3 Review - Aug 2007
Mazda Mazda3 Review - Jun 2008
Our Car Buyer’s Guide covers all of the UK’s major new cars and includes CO2 ratings and car insurance groups. Data updated on the 14th Oct 2009
