L3-VE vs Skyactiv-G 2.5
Side-by-side reliability comparison
Higher reliability score
Skyactiv-G 2.5
BEST
86/100
+2 points over L3-VE
0
/ 100
BUY
L3-VE
Mazda
0
/ 100
BEST
Skyactiv-G 2.5
Mazda
Specifications
L3-VE
Skyactiv-G 2.5
Brand
Mazda
Mazda
Verdict
BUY
BEST
Reliability
84
86
Years
2002--2018
2012--present
Displacement
2261 cc
2488 cc
Layout
I4
I4
Type
Petrol Na
Petrol Na
Power
150--180 hp
186--194 hp
Known Issues
1
3
Total Risk Cost
€0--€0
€0--€0
Character
L3-VE
"Mazda's naturally aspirated 2.3 MZR (Mazda6 2.3 166 PS, also Mazda3, Mazda5, MPV, Tribute and Ford models). Chain-driven, port injection, no turbo - a much simpler engine than the 2.3 MPS turbo. Its best-known weakness is increased oil consumption, so check the level often. Valve clearances need periodic adjustment (no hydraulic lifters)."
Skyactiv-G 2.5
"Mazda6 and CX-5 2.5 petrol (192-194 PS), naturally aspirated with direct injection; cylinder deactivation on later cars. Simple and long-lived on paper, with no recall on the engine itself in Europe. Direct injection means carbon on the intake and injectors over time, and US owners report some cracked heads and head gaskets that are not yet confirmed by Mazda."
Issues Comparison
L3-VE 1
● MODERATE
Increased oil consumption
Skyactiv-G 2.5 3
○ MINOR
Direct-injection deposits — coked injectors and intake carbon
○ MINOR
Engine stall from PCM software error (recall, 2018-2019)
○ MINOR
Low-pressure fuel pump failure — stall (recall, 2018-2019)