The 2.0-liter V6 Mazda KF-DE engine was produced at the company’s factories from 1992 to 2002 and was installed on European versions of such popular models as 323, Xedos 6 and Xedos 9. A modification for 160-170 hp was put on cars for the Japanese market with index KF-ZE.
K-engine family: K8-DE, K8-ZE, KF-DE, KF-ZE, KJ-ZEM, KL-DE, KL-G4, KL-ZE.
Specifications
| Production years | 1992-2002 |
| Displacement, cc | 1995 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 140 – 145 |
| Torque output, Nm | 180 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum V6 |
| Block head | aluminum 24v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 78 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 69.6 |
| Compression ratio | 9.5 |
| Features | DOHC, VRIS |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | belt |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.0 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 3 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Mazda Xedos 6 1995) — city — highway — combined |
10.5 7.1 8.8 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~300 000 |
| Weight, kg | 175 (with attachments) |
The engine was installed on:
- Mazda 323 BA in 1994 – 1998;
- Mazda Xedos 6 CA in 1992 – 1999;
- Mazda Xedos 9 TA in 1992 – 2002.
Disadvantages of the Mazda KF-DE engine
- The aluminum block here is very afraid of overheating, keep an eye on the cooling system;
- After 100-150 thousand run, these power units often already consume oil;
- Approximately at the same runs, there are lubricant leaks from under the valve covers;
- The timing belt changes every 80,000 km, but when it breaks, the valves almost never bend;
- From low-quality oil, hydraulic lifters can knock even up to 50 thousand km.
Frequently asked questions about the Mazda KF-DE
How much power does the Mazda KF-DE make?
The Mazda KF-DE develops 140 - 145 hp and 180 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Mazda KF-DE take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.0 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Mazda KF-DE have a timing belt or chain?
The Mazda KF-DE uses a timing belt.
Is the Mazda KF-DE turbocharged?
No, the Mazda KF-DE is naturally aspirated.
Does the Mazda KF-DE need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Mazda KF-DE has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Mazda KF-DE last?
The typical lifespan of the Mazda KF-DE is ~300 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Mazda KF-DE?
Mazda Xedos 6 1995: city 10.5, highway 7.1, combined 8.8 L/100 km.
What cars was the Mazda KF-DE installed on?
Mazda 323 BA in 1994 - 1998; Mazda Xedos 6 CA in 1992 - 1999; Mazda Xedos 9 TA in 1992 - 2002.
What are the common problems of the Mazda KF-DE?
The aluminum block here is very afraid of overheating, keep an eye on the cooling system. After 100-150 thousand run, these power units often already consume oil. All known problems.
I own a Mazda Xedos 6 2 litre V6 SE . I bought it in 1999 and still have it in 2025 . It was running perfectly untill a week ago when it broke down. I have a spark and fuel but no compression. The belt hasn’t broken but may have jumped , mechanic said it is all lined up with cam pulley marks but still no compression, any help would be appreciated thanks . I don’t want to scrap a beautiful looking car.
This was helpful information.