The Mazda KF-ZE 2.0-liter V6 gasoline engine was produced in Japan from 1991 to 1999 and was installed on Asian versions of such popular models as Efini, Eunos, Lantis and MX-6. The derated version of this unit with the KF-DE index is known from the Xedos 9 sedan.
K-engine family: K8-DE, K8-ZE, KF-DE, KF-ZE, KJ-ZEM, KL-DE, KL-G4, KL-ZE.
Specifications
| Production years | 1991-1999 |
| Displacement, cc | 1995 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 160 – 170 |
| Torque output, Nm | 180 – 190 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum V6 |
| Block head | aluminum 24v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 78 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 69.6 |
| Compression ratio | 10.0 |
| 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 Efini MS-8 1996) — city — highway — combined |
12.7 7.9 9.7 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~275 000 |
| Weight, kg | 175 (with attachments) |
The engine was installed on:
- Mazda Cronos GE in 1991 – 1995;
- Mazda Efini MS-6 GE in 1991 – 1994;
- Mazda Efini MS-8 MB in 1992 – 1998;
- Mazda Eunos 500 CA in 1992 – 1999;
- Mazda Lantis CB in 1993 – 1997;
- Mazda MX-6 GE in 1991 – 1997.
Disadvantages of the Mazda KF-ZE engine
- The motors of this series are considered reliable, but the aluminum block is afraid of overheating;
- Owners often complain about oil consumption, sometimes it reaches a liter per 1000 km;
- At high mileage, lubricant can also ooze from under the valve covers here;
- The timing belt lasts about 80,000 km, but when it breaks, the valves usually do not bend;
- From cheap lubrication, hydraulic lifters can fail already by 50 – 70 thousand km.
Frequently asked questions about the Mazda KF-ZE
How much power does the Mazda KF-ZE make?
The Mazda KF-ZE develops 160 - 170 hp and 180 - 190 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Mazda KF-ZE take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.0 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Mazda KF-ZE have a timing belt or chain?
The Mazda KF-ZE uses a timing belt.
Is the Mazda KF-ZE turbocharged?
No, the Mazda KF-ZE is naturally aspirated.
Does the Mazda KF-ZE need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Mazda KF-ZE has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Mazda KF-ZE last?
The typical lifespan of the Mazda KF-ZE is ~275 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Mazda KF-ZE?
Mazda Efini MS-8 1996: city 12.7, highway 7.9, combined 9.7 L/100 km.
What cars was the Mazda KF-ZE installed on?
Mazda Cronos GE in 1991 - 1995; Mazda Efini MS-6 GE in 1991 - 1994; Mazda Efini MS-8 MB in 1992 - 1998; Mazda Eunos 500 CA in 1992 - 1999; Mazda Lantis CB in 1993 - 1997; Mazda MX-6 GE in 1991 - 1997.
What are the common problems of the Mazda KF-ZE?
The motors of this series are considered reliable, but the aluminum block is afraid of overheating. Owners often complain about oil consumption, sometimes it reaches a liter per 1000 km. All known problems.
My Mazda MX6 is fitted with the 2 litre KFZE engine. It has been raced in virtually stock condition from 257000 km to 283000 km and still running strong. The key is regular oil changes for reliability.