How Much Horsepower Does the Mazda3 Axela Engine Have?

[StBryce]

The Mazda3 Axela's 1.5L naturally aspirated engine delivers 117 horsepower, while the 2.0L naturally aspirated engine produces 158 horsepower. The Axela employs two naturally aspirated engines, both featuring Mazda's SKYACTIV Technology. As a compact car, the Axela is available in both hatchback and sedan variants. Manufactured by Changan Mazda, this vehicle integrates the advanced MZD Connect infotainment system while prioritizing driving safety through its human-machine interface. Its entire configuration consistently embodies a technologically advanced and user-centric driving experience.

[Fritz]

I've been driving the Axela for almost two years now. My model is the Mazda3 with a 2.0L naturally aspirated engine, producing a maximum of 158 horsepower, which is more than sufficient for daily commuting. Overtaking on highways is quite effortless, and you can still feel the power surge after the RPM exceeds 4000. The 1.5L version offers 117 horsepower, which is nimble for city driving but struggles a bit when fully loaded or climbing hills. In practice, the transmission is exceptionally smart, downshifting so quickly it feels like it can read your mind. So, while the horsepower figures might seem modest, the driving experience is quite crisp. In terms of fuel consumption, my 2.0L averages around 7.5L/100km in the city and runs fine on 92-octane gasoline. For those seeking more power, there's a 2.5L version overseas with 186 horsepower, unfortunately, it wasn't introduced in the domestic market.

[StNolan]

The Mazda 3's 1.5L engine delivers 117 horsepower, while the 2.0L version produces 158 horsepower, both naturally aspirated. Mazda excels in tuning, providing ample low-end torque, with 90% of torque available at just 2000 rpm, making it particularly responsive from a standstill at traffic lights. Compared to the Civic's 1.5T with 182 horsepower in the same class, the Axela stands out with its more linear power delivery, paired with the industry-leading 6AT transmission for a smooth driving experience. During a test drive, focus on mid-range acceleration, especially between 40-80km/h, where the engine's capabilities are most evident. If the budget allows, opt for the 2.0L version—it's 20,000 yuan more expensive than the 1.5L but offers a noticeably improved driving experience.

[MacLuna]

The Mazda3 comes in two variants: 1.5L and 2.0L. The 1.5L model delivers a maximum of 117 horsepower, making it ideal for urban commuting with its responsive throttle and low fuel consumption. The 2.0L version offers stronger power reserves with 158 horsepower, providing confident overtaking capability especially on highways. The Skyactiv-G engine boasts an impressive 13:1 compression ratio. While its horsepower figures may not be class-leading, its excellent thermal efficiency ensures minimal power loss in real-world driving. As someone who frequently drives mountain roads, I find the 2.0L version particularly satisfying with its precise throttle response when exiting corners, working in harmony with the G-Vectoring Control system to maintain stable body posture. For those prioritizing driving pleasure, I'd recommend the 2.0L+manual transmission combo to fully exploit all 158 horsepower.

[VanBriella]

The 1.5L engine delivers 117 horsepower, while the 2.0L version produces 158 horsepower. Mazda's tuning emphasizes low-end performance, so even the 1.5L model provides decent acceleration at just 2000 rpm. The transmission's shift logic is very intelligent, dropping two gears with a hard press on the accelerator to keep the engine in its optimal power band around 4500 rpm. Compared to the Corolla 1.2T in the same class, which only offers 116 horsepower, the Mazda3's power delivery is more direct. For long-term use, it's recommended to regularly clean the throttle body, as the Skyactiv engine is particularly sensitive to intake conditions—keeping it clean ensures more stable horsepower output. The 2.0L version is recommended to use 95-octane fuel for more refined power response.

[ElliottMarie]

The domestic Mazda3 Axela mainly offers the 117-horsepower 1.5L and 158-horsepower 2.0L engines. In real-world driving, the 2.0L feels more engaging - while the power figures aren't spectacular, the throttle pedal feels directly connected to your foot, delivering instant response. Special praise goes to the engine note - at high revs it produces a metallic roar that's far more exciting than turbocharged cars. Maintenance requires 0W-20 low-viscosity oil, otherwise power delivery suffers. Some owners have tuned the ECU to push the 2.0L to around 180 horsepower, but this sacrifices the factory smoothness. The real shame is Mazda didn't bring the overseas 250-horsepower 2.5T version - now that would've been a proper hot hatch candidate.