How is the Mazda6 Atenza's engine?

[ORuth]

The Mazda6 Atenza is equipped with the SKYACTIV engine. Here is an introduction to the SKYACTIV engine: 1. Engine classification: Gasoline engine and diesel engine. 2. Body structure: The SKYACTIV body achieves top-level collision safety performance. The new-generation lightweight and high-rigidity body better supports the pursuit of "driving pleasure." It combines the dual advantages of high rigidity and lightweight (8% weight reduction, 30% strength increase). The basic framework adopts a "straight structure" composed of straight lines as much as possible, and a "continuous structure" that coordinates connecting parts to maximize their effectiveness.

[Josephine]

The Mazda Atenza's engine uses the Skyactiv technology, and I've found it incredibly reliable after driving it for over a year. The 2.5L naturally aspirated version delivers exceptionally smooth power output—it doesn't lurch forward suddenly like turbocharged cars do in city traffic jams. When overtaking, the throttle response is quick, offering linear and responsive acceleration. During highway cruising, the RPM stays impressively low, with surprisingly good fuel efficiency—I once achieved as low as 6.2L/100km on the highway. What I love most is the ZOOM-ZOOM engine sound—deep and powerful when you floor the throttle, yet quiet during normal driving. Many experienced drivers in the car club have clocked over 70,000-80,000 km without major issues, and maintenance costs are low, thanks to the simpler structure of naturally aspirated engines compared to turbos. The only downside is a slight lack of power when climbing steep hills with a full load, but the 6AT transmission compensates well by downshifting quickly.

[VonKendra]

The Skyactiv-G engine in the Mazda6 Atenza is truly remarkable. I've compared it with many peers in its class. The 13:1 high compression ratio design delivers exceptional fuel efficiency – it runs on regular 92-octane gasoline yet achieves even better mileage than official figures. Daily driving reveals no noticeable jerking, with power delivery as smooth as silk. A light tap on the accelerator at red lights provides effortless takeoff. When flooring it, the transmission downshifts decisively while the engine revs climb rapidly, yet without any harsh noise. I've noticed slightly louder cold starts, but it quiets down within thirty seconds – an intentional design for quick warm-up. Some owners report sharper throttle response after intake/exhaust modifications, though the factory tuning proves more than adequate. On highway trips, the fuel gauge drops noticeably slower than my friend's turbocharged car, with a full tank easily covering 700+ kilometers.

[SavannahMarie]

Having driven the Atenza for three years, what I'm most satisfied with is the engine. The 2.0L version is completely sufficient for city commuting, with throttle response that feels particularly intuitive – every time the light turns green, I can pull ahead by half a car length. The transmission is unbelievably smart; even on the continuous curves in my mountainous hometown, it accurately maintains the optimal RPM range. Fuel consumption is lower than expected, around 8L/100km in winter with the AC on, and it runs fine on regular 92-octane fuel. The cold start is a bit noisy, but engineers say it's intentionally designed that way to reach operating temperature faster. During one maintenance visit, the technician praised the engine for its simple and durable structure, noting no oil leaks from the valve cover gasket. However, when fully loaded with the AC on in summer, overtaking requires deeper throttle input, as the power reserve isn't as aggressive as turbocharged cars, though the smoothness compensates for this shortcoming.

[McCassandra]

Mazda's naturally aspirated engine is really well-tuned in the Atenza, delivering exceptional driver engagement. The throttle response is immediate - it gives exactly the power you ask for, unlike some turbocharged cars that require waiting for boost pressure to build. What I love most is the feeling of downshifting and rev-matching on mountain roads, with the engine's growl rising beautifully with the RPM while maintaining decent cabin quietness. Its fuel efficiency outperforms other Japanese cars in the same displacement class, consistently averaging around 7.6L/100km in mixed driving conditions. The 55-liter fuel tank provides a range of over 600 kilometers. Skyactiv Technology achieves an impressive 13:1 compression ratio while still running smoothly on 92 octane fuel. If I had to nitpick, the high-RPM power delivery isn't as linear as Honda's Earth Dreams engines. Maintenance is worry-free with extended service intervals and reasonably priced parts. During test drives, pay special attention to the acceleration response above 3000 RPM - that's where this engine truly shines.