2.0 SkyActiv-G (petrol)
2015–2021 · petrol · 1998cc · 120hp
Engine codes: PE-VPS
Reliability, common problems and owner reviews for the Mazda CX-3 2.0 SkyActiv-G (petrol). Check this before you buy used.
The 2.0 SkyActiv-G is a refreshingly sensible modern petrol — high-compression but naturally aspirated (no turbo to fail) and chain-driven, genuinely reliable and frugal. It rewards correct fuel and clean oil because of the high compression, and very-high-mileage cars can show a little carbon, but there are no design vices. With optional AWD it's one of the safer small-crossover petrols; the lower-power version can feel modest loaded but the engine itself is dependable.
Same engine, other cars
This is the same physical engine (PE-VPS) sold under different names across brands. Reliability is broadly shared — cross-check these:
Known Issues
High compression rewards correct fuel; some carbon at very high mileage.
Fix / Workaround: Correct fuel; decarbon if needed.
Repair cost: €100–€400
Typically appears after: 160,000 km
Coils, mounts, cooling with age.
Fix / Workaround: Replace as needed.
Repair cost: €80–€400
Mileage Thresholds
After 200,000 km: Durable, no turbo.
Pre-Purchase Checklist
- ☐No turbo — lower-worry petrol
- ☐Correct fuel + oil history
- ☐AWD option a plus
Frequently asked questions
Is the Mazda CX-3 2.0 SkyActiv-G (petrol) reliable?
Reliable — The 2.0 SkyActiv-G is a refreshingly sensible modern petrol — high-compression but naturally aspirated (no turbo to fail) and chain-driven, genuinely reliable and frugal. It rewards correct fuel and clean oil because of the high compression, and very-high-mileage cars can show a little carbon, but there are no design vices. With optional AWD it's one of the safer small-crossover petrols; the lower-power version can feel modest loaded but the engine itself is dependable.
What are the common problems and reviews for the Mazda CX-3 2.0 SkyActiv-G (petrol)?
The most commonly reported problems: Carbon / fuel quality (high comp), Minor age items.
Is a used Mazda CX-3 2.0 SkyActiv-G (petrol) worth buying?
Minor issues only, easy to maintain, no design flaws. A safe used buy.