From 2002 until 2018, the company produced the 2.3-liter Mazda L3-VE gasoline engine, which was fitted to a number of well-known models, including Ford vehicles included in the SEWA index. The L3-DE model without a phase shifter was installed in the second-generation Mazda MPV minivan.
The L-engine family also includes:
- 1.8 L – L8‑DE, L813;
- 2.0 L – LF‑DE, LF‑VD, LF17, LFF7;
- 2.3 L – L3‑VE, L3‑VDT, L3C1;
- 2.5 L – L5‑VE.
The engine was installed on:
- Mazda 3 BK in 2003 – 2008;
- Mazda 5 CR in 2004 – 2010;
- Mazda 6 I (GG) in 2002 – 2008;
- Mazda Biante CC in 2008 – 2018;
- Mazda MPV III (LY) in 2006 – 2016;
- Mazda Tribute EP in 2004 – 2008.
Specifications
| Production years | 2002-2018 |
| Displacement, cc | 2261 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 150 – 180 |
| Torque output, Nm | 200 – 220 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 87.5 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 94 |
| Compression ratio | 10.6 |
| Features | DOHC, balancers |
| Hydraulic lifters | no |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | S-VT, intake |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 3.5 / 4.7 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 4 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Mazda 3 2004) — city — highway — combined |
10.7 6.8 8.1 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~300 000 |
| Weight, kg | 112 |
Disadvantages of the Mazda MZR L3-VE engine
Increased oil consumption is the most well-known issue with such an engine;
An intricate intake manifold flap system is the root of many issues here;
Additionally, a modest resource has motor mounts, a pump, a thermostat, and a lambda probe;
The timing chain and phase shifter may need maintenance after 200–250 thousand kilometers;
You must choose measuring cups to adjust the valves once every 90,000 kilometers.