Mazda in North America has released official details of the new turbocharged 2,5-litre petrol engine that is set to be offered in the Mazda3.

While the company’s Mexican division earlier announced the blown four-pot would generate 169 kW and 420 N.m, it turns out those figures are achieved on 87-octane petrol.

Supplied with 93-octane fuel, Mazda says the turbocharged Skyactiv-G 2,5T unit will churn out a healthy 186 kW and 434 N.m, directed to all four wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. For the sake of comparison, the new Volkswagen Golf 8 GTI generates 180 kW and 370 N.m from its turbocharged 2,0-litre unit.

The Japanese firm says while the engine is already offered in other models (such as the Mazda6 and CX-5) in some markets, this version has been “specifically calibrated” to the Mazda3 so as to “deliver the unique driving dynamics expected by our most passionate drivers”. Interestingly, the engine will be available in North America in both hatchback and sedan body styles.

As things stand, Mazda has yet to confirm whether this engine will be available in the Mazda3 outside of North America.

The local Mazda3 range, which touched down in South Africa in July 2019, currently includes a naturally aspirated 1,5-litre unit (88 kW/153 N.m) and a similarly atmospheric 2,0-litre with 121 kW and 213 N.m. Some other markets also receive the Japanese firm’s Skyactiv-X motor.

Original article from Car