2011 Mazda 3 fuel economy

[Captain Mazda]

First of all, I've been extremely happy with my 2011 Mazda 3 GX. I bought her brand new last June and she's been my precious baby since that fateful day. It's an automatic stock GX and I've clocked in just over 12,000KM over the past 12 months.

However, I have some gripes about the fuel economy. I've noticed almost everyone with the same model and trim has been getting better mileage than me. I started tracking my fill-ups a month ago and so far my best rating has been 9.0—I got 498km on a single tank. I don't floor the gas, I don't idle, I never use AC, and I coast whenever possible; so I know my driving habits aren't the problem.

Right now it looks like I'll get just over 500km on a single tank for the first time, so it seems it's getting better, but still nowhere near what other drivers are reporting.

Anyone else a bit disappointed with the fuel economy on the 2011 models? I know the Mazda 3 is not a crummy sub-compact and it's actually fun to drive compared to other cars in its class, but as a recent graduate I wish I could get more mileage out of each fill-up.

My Fuelly profile in case you're wondering: https://www.fuelly.com/driver/captainmazda/3

[Booter22]

hey captain, as i have said in a few other posts about fuel economy. i didnt even notice an increase in mine until about the 24,000 km mark. and then it got slightly better when i changed the exhaust and intake ( could all be in my head for those mods) but i find i average about 600 km a tank, to a max of in the 700, but i mean to do that in my 5spd its not shifting over 3,000 rpm. no ac, hwy speeds between 90-100 km/h or 60 miles/h.

have a look through my fuelly, http://mefi.us/images/fuelly/smallsig-metric/72652.png (http://www.fuelly.com/driver/booter22/3)

so far ive tracked almost 30,000 km on my car and 4,500km on my gfs car.

http://mefi.us/images/fuelly/smallsig-metric/113573.png (http://www.fuelly.com/driver/booter22/3-4)

so for your average at 9.0L / 100km. its not a bad start and with the habbits you posted so far its a good start.

[tmpz]

I do 95% city driving with my 2.0L auto and get about 500km before the light turns on. It depends heavily on traffic and driving style.

[zzz3]

My driving is a mixture of 60% hwy and 40% cty.

I can get mid 700 if I drive to the last bar. 800 in reserve, of course that is not conducive for keeping your fuel pump in good order. I would do as John says, and wait to see if your fuel economy improves at 24k.

Somethings I do:
-never exceed 100 or whatever the speed limit is
-always drive in the right most lane
-draft behind trucks lol
-leave it in 5th on the highway to avoid unnecessary downshifts (for passing or acceleration)
-smooth but quick acceleration to my desired speed
-minimize throttle inputs, coast if you can (close throttle and downshift)
-turn off car at lights that are 1min+
-make sure vent setting is not on defrost (even if the fan is off, the heater will run if on defrost)
-using 0W20 mazda synthetic
-tire pressure is set to 36psi
-lightweight wheels lol (doubt it helps)

[Booter22]

also, can always bump the tire pressure. mines set to 36 psi right now, with nitro ( i know save the flames about it not being worth it)

[Captain Mazda]

Interesting, thanks. I'll keep tracking it and hopefully I'll see a gradual improvement. I wouldn't recommend drafting behind trucks though, that's a good way to get nasty stone chips on your hood :(

[zzz3]

Interesting, thanks. I'll keep tracking it and hopefully I'll see a gradual improvement. I wouldn't recommend drafting behind trucks though, that's a good way to get nasty stone chips on your hood :(

my front bumper, and to lesser extent my hood, is riddled with stone chips thanks to the crappy/thin paint. i could care less since it is plastic and i plan on repainting/touching it up in the future.

[Elusivellama]

Interesting, thanks. I'll keep tracking it and hopefully I'll see a gradual improvement. I wouldn't recommend drafting behind trucks though, that's a good way to get nasty stone chips on your hood :(

Never mind the stone chips, it's dangerous since you can't see the road ahead.

Truck > you when it comes to an accident. I've personally witnessed ... in real time.... what happens when a truck hits a car going at highway speeds.

[JHX 1138]

um, how much does drafting behind trucks actually help?

[zzz3]

um, how much does drafting behind trucks actually help?

Buy me a scan gauge and I'll tell you lol.

From the other cars I have driven in the past, the trip computer displays a 1-2mpg+ improvement when behind a truck. Drag is one of the biggest hindrances to better fuel economy. That's why you see engineers trying to lower drag coefficient all the time.

[Booter22]

right now for examply im at 365 km and just got to half. i would have been over 400 if i took the hwy home and out to oakville today before half but thats what happens in city driving, and be meing off today with a combo of the defrost and what nots.

[Felks24]

right now for examply im at 365 km and just got to half. i would have been over 400 if i took the hwy home and out to oakville today before half but thats what happens in city driving, and be meing off today with a combo of the defrost and what nots.

Really? I just filled up with 2 bars left (as in less than 1/4 tank) at 400km exactly. I do only have 15k on it though, but all highway.

Is yours a 2.0 or 2.5?

[JHX 1138]

Buy me a scan gauge and I'll tell you lol.

From the other cars I have driven in the past, the trip computer displays a 1-2mpg+ improvement when behind a truck. Drag is one of the biggest hindrances to better fuel economy. That's why you see engineers trying to lower drag coefficient all the time.

but seriously, how close do you need to be to the back of a truck to benefit?

personally i hate driving behind trucks, especially in the small economy cars we all have.
you can't see anything! feels dangerous to me.

[zzz3]

2 car lengths is good enough (and safe at 90-100km/h). did you picture nascar drafting lol?

[JHX 1138]

2 car lengths is good enough (and safe at 90-100km/h). did you picture nascar drafting lol?

hehe yup

2 car lengths is ok, i think that's what i do anyhow.

[Booter22]

2.0L 5Spd

[Captain Mazda]

Got my best tank yesterday, 560.1KM thanks to all the freeway driving I did these past two weeks. Filled exactly 45L.

[Captain Mazda]

I do 95% city driving with my 2.0L auto and get about 500km before the light turns on. It depends heavily on traffic and driving style.

This is my average and I do a ton of city driving too. I remember not being able to get more than 450KM per tank in the first few months, but my mileage has been improving slowly as things get settled in.

[zzz3]

looks like i jinxed myself, managed about 280km on 25L which is about 11 L/100km (21MPG).

:(

[mazda72]

looks like i jinxed myself, managed about 280km on 25L which is about 11 L/100km (21MPG).

:(


I get around 700-720km per gas tank driving leisurely 65% hwy, I have 5sp 2.0l 2011 hatch. Its an improvement over my 2003 Protege 2.0l which gave me not more than 600km /gas tank. I cant complain as my Mazda3 is a big improvement in every way over my previous car.

[zzz3]

I get around 700-720km per gas tank driving leisurely 65% hwy, I have 5sp 2.0l 2011 hatch. Its an improvement over my 2003 Protege 2.0l which gave me not more than 600km /gas tank. I cant complain as my Mazda3 is a big improvement in every way over my previous car.

that's what i usually get too. i think it maybe time to change spark plugs, air filter (im almost at 60000km) and double check tire pressure.

[mazda72]

that's what i usually get too. i think it maybe time to change spark plugs, air filter (im almost at 60000km) and double check tire pressure.

but thats good...works out to around 7.5l/100km...

[Booter22]

that's what i usually get too. i think it maybe time to change spark plugs, air filter (im almost at 60000km) and double check tire pressure.

you dont " need " to change the spark plugs until 120 000 km. or at least thats when its recommeneded. actually with the newer emissions systems you shouldnt have to change them to 160 000km. but im sure trying to even take them out then would be impossible. chryslers say ever 30 000 or something :S least thats what there service board says but who knows.

[Silver Streak]

I get 750-800 km with close to 900 km to Empty after the last bar....works out to about 6-6.3 L/100 km.....combo 401 commuting in stop and go traffic. Mine is a 2.0L Sport GX. My easy mod is I insulated the whole air intake duct with pipe foam and covered it in aluminum foil to keep the heat away from the intake air and keep it as cool as possible. Next I put two plastic dams to force the air up the two air scoops hidden under the lip just below the Mazda insgnia to force the air into the air intake....poke around and you will find them. This rams/forces cool air into the intake and keeps it cool into the engine and the result is about 25% better fuel economy from 6.5-6.7 L/100km down to about 6-6.2L/100km...you also get a bit better grunt on the acceleration to boot!

[Silver Streak]

I get 750-800 km with close to 900 km to Empty after the last bar....works out to about 6-6.3 L/100 km.....combo 401 commuting in stop and go traffic. Mine is a 2.0L Sport GX. My easy mod is I insulated the whole air intake duct with pipe foam and covered it in aluminum foil to keep the heat away from the intake air and keep it as cool as possible. Next I put two plastic dams to force the air up the two air scoops hidden under the lip just below the Mazda insgnia to force the air into the air intake....poke around and you will find them. This rams/forces cool air into the intake and keeps it cool into the engine and the result is about 25% better fuel economy from 6.5-6.7 L/100km down to about 6-6.2L/100km...you also get a bit better grunt on the acceleration to boot!

[Astig02]

.... Next I put two plastic dams to force the air up the two air scoops hidden under the lip just below the Mazda insgnia to force the air into the air intake....poke around and you will find them. This rams/forces cool air into the intake and keeps it cool into the engine and the result is about 25% better fuel economy from 6.5-6.7 L/100km down to about 6-6.2L/100km...you also get a bit better grunt on the acceleration to boot!

This sounds promising and good for you in the fuel economy section! :)
I was wondering if you can write up an instructions for a DIY (or PM me for more info).
I am interested in testing this on my 2.5L. Would it be different since I have a SRI?

[Toby]

I drive a 2.5L automatic. I use the Road Trip app on my phone and find I have been averaging 8.3 l/100km. According to the app, I should be able to get 720 km. going from full to fumes. I drive 60% highway, and don't go more than 10 km/hr above the limit. When I am on the last bar on my gauge I have usually gone about 550 km.

[sammyboi36]

i avg 530-600 km per tank depending how i drive with a 2.5L. it could be better but its a fun car to drive

[old-guy]

Has anyone tried Eco Fuel Saver additive? Heavily advertized during Stanley Cup. Probably bogus but wondering if any actual experience here.

[Lactose]

um, how much does drafting behind trucks actually help?


There was actually a Mythbusters segment on this. Driving at certain distances from trucks to see if there was better airflow reducing the use of gas. Check that on youtube :P

[zzz3]

I get 750-800 km with close to 900 km to Empty after the last bar....works out to about 6-6.3 L/100 km.....combo 401 commuting in stop and go traffic. Mine is a 2.0L Sport GX. My easy mod is I insulated the whole air intake duct with pipe foam and covered it in aluminum foil to keep the heat away from the intake air and keep it as cool as possible. Next I put two plastic dams to force the air up the two air scoops hidden under the lip just below the Mazda insgnia to force the air into the air intake....poke around and you will find them. This rams/forces cool air into the intake and keeps it cool into the engine and the result is about 25% better fuel economy from 6.5-6.7 L/100km down to about 6-6.2L/100km...you also get a bit better grunt on the acceleration to boot!

This sounds promising and good for you in the fuel economy section! :)
I was wondering if you can write up an instructions for a DIY (or PM me for more info).
I am interested in testing this on my 2.5L. Would it be different since I have a SRI?

+1

Would you mind posting pics or making a tutorial.

[Silver Streak]

I can get some pics but how do I post them?. I am new at this

[Silver Streak]

+1

Would you mind posting pics or making a tutorial.

How do I post pics?

[zzz3]

Go to a site such as imgur or imsgeshack. Upload your pictures there and then post the direct image link here. You can also use Flickr or picasa if you have a yahoo or google account, respectively.

[Silver Streak]

<table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/KhynWCCjWvOk1X5OYRXjlZTMtfySaJJp2PbdrK3xtd0?feat=e mbedwebsite"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ykBwSs7ymUA/UA39xUOmviI/AAAAAAAAAA4/KJ6VcZl9CY0/s144/DSCN0879.JPG" height="108" width="144" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/117185088934875878522/Mazda3?authuser=0&authkey=Gv1sRgCL6E77aQ_YS2xQE&feat=embedwebsite">Mazda 3</a></td></tr></table> https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/KhynWCCjWvOk1X5OYRXjlZTMtfySaJJp2PbdrK3xtd0?feat=d irectlink
So let's see of this works. I think the air intake setup is similar for the 2L and the 2.5 L engines.

Above foto shows air dams to force air up into Mazda built-in "S" air scoops to air intake to breathe better as speed increases. The right side (from driver's view) one goes directly to intake. The left hand side goes up to LHS grill then across under the hood to the RHS grill/grating to feed the air intake. I cut out the air dams like a wide upside down tea cup to hold them in place from a windshield washer jug.

<table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/P4mfHGUPjqcpsYSy0t2c5ZTMtfySaJJp2PbdrK3xtd0?feat=e mbedwebsite"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Lyq58wCfr2M/UA39zr6HBAI/AAAAAAAAABA/UT3hmyitAuc/s144/DSCN0882.JPG" height="108" width="144" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/117185088934875878522/Mazda3?authuser=0&authkey=Gv1sRgCL6E77aQ_YS2xQE&feat=embedwebsite">Mazda 3</a></td></tr></table> https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/P4mfHGUPjqcpsYSy0t2c5ZTMtfySaJJp2PbdrK3xtd0?feat=d irectlink


The second foto shows the insulated air intake duct to shield it from heat from the engine, radiator and rad hoses above it. The air intake comes out in parts with some elbow grease. You can get a roll of 12" wide foam duct insulation with aluminum foil on one side and adhesive on the other from Lowes, or get 1 -1/2" foam pipe insulation. Cut it to cover the duct sections as best as possible and reinstall it. Afterwards, Add 1 to 2 layers of aluminum foil over the pipe insulation to reflect the heat all around.

This does what K&N Filters do for $200 but it takes cool air from outside rather than hot air inside the engine bay. I am getting the rated 5.9L/100km hwy for the GX in hot 401 top and go commuting. It works good for about $30 and some elbow grease! Good luck!

[Astig02]

<table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/KhynWCCjWvOk1X5OYRXjlZTMtfySaJJp2PbdrK3xtd0?feat=e mbedwebsite"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ykBwSs7ymUA/UA39xUOmviI/AAAAAAAAAA4/KJ6VcZl9CY0/s144/DSCN0879.JPG" height="108" width="144" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/117185088934875878522/Mazda3?authuser=0&authkey=Gv1sRgCL6E77aQ_YS2xQE&feat=embedwebsite">Mazda 3</a></td></tr></table> https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/KhynWCCjWvOk1X5OYRXjlZTMtfySaJJp2PbdrK3xtd0?feat=d irectlink
So let's see of this works. I think the air intake setup is similar for the 2L and the 2.5 L engines.

Above foto shows air dams to force air up into Mazda built-in "S" air scoops to air intake to breathe better as speed increases. The right side (from driver's view) one goes directly to intake. The left hand side goes up to LHS grill then across under the hood to the RHS grill/grating to feed the air intake. I cut out the air dams like a wide upside down tea cup to hold them in place from a windshield washer jug.

<table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/P4mfHGUPjqcpsYSy0t2c5ZTMtfySaJJp2PbdrK3xtd0?feat=e mbedwebsite"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Lyq58wCfr2M/UA39zr6HBAI/AAAAAAAAABA/UT3hmyitAuc/s144/DSCN0882.JPG" height="108" width="144" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/117185088934875878522/Mazda3?authuser=0&authkey=Gv1sRgCL6E77aQ_YS2xQE&feat=embedwebsite">Mazda 3</a></td></tr></table> https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/P4mfHGUPjqcpsYSy0t2c5ZTMtfySaJJp2PbdrK3xtd0?feat=d irectlink


The second foto shows the insulated air intake duct to shield it from heat from the engine, radiator and rad hoses above it. The air intake comes out in parts with some elbow grease. You can get a roll of 12" wide foam duct insulation with aluminum foil on one side and adhesive on the other from Lowes, or get 1 -1/2" foam pipe insulation. Cut it to cover the duct sections as best as possible and reinstall it. Afterwards, Add 1 to 2 layers of aluminum foil over the pipe insulation to reflect the heat all around.

This does what K&N Filters do for $200 but it takes cool air from outside rather than hot air inside the engine bay. I am getting the rated 5.9L/100km hwy for the GX in hot 401 top and go commuting. It works good for about $30 and some elbow grease! Good luck!

it will be nice to see in person.

[zzz3]

<table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/KhynWCCjWvOk1X5OYRXjlZTMtfySaJJp2PbdrK3xtd0?feat=e mbedwebsite"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ykBwSs7ymUA/UA39xUOmviI/AAAAAAAAAA4/KJ6VcZl9CY0/s144/DSCN0879.JPG" height="108" width="144" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/117185088934875878522/Mazda3?authuser=0&authkey=Gv1sRgCL6E77aQ_YS2xQE&feat=embedwebsite">Mazda 3</a></td></tr></table> https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/KhynWCCjWvOk1X5OYRXjlZTMtfySaJJp2PbdrK3xtd0?feat=d irectlink
So let's see of this works. I think the air intake setup is similar for the 2L and the 2.5 L engines.

Above foto shows air dams to force air up into Mazda built-in "S" air scoops to air intake to breathe better as speed increases. The right side (from driver's view) one goes directly to intake. The left hand side goes up to LHS grill then across under the hood to the RHS grill/grating to feed the air intake. I cut out the air dams like a wide upside down tea cup to hold them in place from a windshield washer jug.

<table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/P4mfHGUPjqcpsYSy0t2c5ZTMtfySaJJp2PbdrK3xtd0?feat=e mbedwebsite"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Lyq58wCfr2M/UA39zr6HBAI/AAAAAAAAABA/UT3hmyitAuc/s144/DSCN0882.JPG" height="108" width="144" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/117185088934875878522/Mazda3?authuser=0&authkey=Gv1sRgCL6E77aQ_YS2xQE&feat=embedwebsite">Mazda 3</a></td></tr></table> https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/P4mfHGUPjqcpsYSy0t2c5ZTMtfySaJJp2PbdrK3xtd0?feat=d irectlink


The second foto shows the insulated air intake duct to shield it from heat from the engine, radiator and rad hoses above it. The air intake comes out in parts with some elbow grease. You can get a roll of 12" wide foam duct insulation with aluminum foil on one side and adhesive on the other from Lowes, or get 1 -1/2" foam pipe insulation. Cut it to cover the duct sections as best as possible and reinstall it. Afterwards, Add 1 to 2 layers of aluminum foil over the pipe insulation to reflect the heat all around.

This does what K&N Filters do for $200 but it takes cool air from outside rather than hot air inside the engine bay. I am getting the rated 5.9L/100km hwy for the GX in hot 401 top and go commuting. It works good for about $30 and some elbow grease! Good luck!

with regards to photos and picasa, you need to go to actions, album properties and edit visibility to 'anyone with link'. as for posting actual image url, just right click picture and copy image location.

[Captain Mazda]

It's a far cry from the 9.4L/100km that I started out with, but I've been getting better mileage consistently, with the exception of my previous tank. City driving is an absolute killer for my 3, despite my good driving habits.

http://mefi.us/images/fuelly/sig-metric/125517.png (http://www.fuelly.com/driver/CaptainMazda/3)

[Silver Streak]

with regards to photos and picasa, you need to go to actions, album properties and edit visibility to 'anyone with link'. as for posting actual image url, just right click picture and copy image location.

Foto 1
https://picasaweb.google.com/117185088934875878522/Mazda3?authkey=Gv1sRgCL6E77aQ_YS2xQE#5768545721416 859170

Foto 2

https://picasaweb.google.com/117185088934875878522/Mazda3?authkey=Gv1sRgCL6E77aQ_YS2xQE#5768545762133 083138

Okay I could only post the shortcut to the fotos so let me know if you can see them.

[zzz3]

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ykBwSs7ymUA/UA39xUOmviI/AAAAAAAAABw/xjDIc1wiQFY/s912/DSCN0879.JPG

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Lyq58wCfr2M/UA39zr6HBAI/AAAAAAAAABw/-9buxfMYNjo/s912/DSCN0882.JPG

[zzz3]

i definitely want to see this in person. have a few questions too.

do you plan on going to meeting of mazda or the 300 mazda charity event?

[Silver Streak]

i definitely want to see this in person. have a few questions too.

do you plan on going to meeting of mazda or the 300 mazda charity event?

Not planning to be there. ask any questions or PM me. It is fairly easy to do, just takes some time using basic materials. It took a couple tries to get it where it is now but any decent attempt will show some gas savings improvement. the Air dams are easy and may give instant improvement as the faster you drive the more air it forces which doesn't happen as much without them. My first try I got down to about 6.3-6.5 L/100km. I improved it- better insulation plus alum foil, better and 2nd air dams and I am getting 5.9-6.2 L/100k in 401 commuting and may be better in more hiway driving conditions. I also anticipate and coast maybe 10-15% of the time also.

I did another mod to keep the cabin air intake a lot cooler from exhaust heat which helps a lot now that it is hot and I don't have to use AC hardly at all which saves a lot of gas also! Let me know how to post the pictures in the blog as I tried but couldnt and you did (where do I copy image location, in Picasa?), and I can post for this mod.

[Silver Streak]

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ykBwSs7ymUA/UA39xUOmviI/AAAAAAAAABw/xjDIc1wiQFY/s912/DSCN0879.JPG

Not planning to be there. ask any questions or PM me. It is fairly easy to do, just takes some time using basic materials. It took a couple tries to get it where it is now but any decent attempt will show some gas savings improvement. the Air dams are easy and may give instant improvement as the faster you drive the more air it forces which doesn't happen as much without them. My first try I got down to about 6.3-6.5 L/100km. I improved it- better insulation plus alum foil, better and 2nd air dams and I am getting 5.9-6.2 L/100k in 401 commuting and may be better in more hiway driving conditions. I also anticipate and coast maybe 10-15% of the time also.

I did another mod to keep the cabin air intake a lot cooler from exhaust heat which helps a lot now that it is hot and I don't have to use AC hardly at all which saves a lot of gas also! Let me know how to post the pictures in the blog as I tried but couldnt and you did (where do I copy image location, in Picasa?), and I can post for this mod.

[Captain Mazda]

Updated stats through winter. I do a lot of city driving which is just killer.

http://badges.fuelly.com/images/sig-metric/125517.png (http://www.fuelly.com/driver/CaptainMazda/3)

[asatattack]

How can I complain about fuel economy? I have been driving trucks for decades... with this I get 35 mpg and I don't baby it. One time I did, I kept it under 65mph on the open highway and I was getting 40 mpg:chuckle

[MoreYummy]

What are those 2 silver metal for near the plat?

[narindra]

liar lol

[Captain Mazda]

Update: http://badges.fuelly.com/images/sig-metric/125517.png (http://www.fuelly.com/driver/CaptainMazda/3)

[Captain Mazda]

I'm balancing out at 8.9L, which isn't great :(

Any point in adding a cold air intake on an automatic?

[Booter22]

I'm balancing out at 8.9L, which isn't great :(

Any point in adding a cold air intake on an automatic?

you can add it. but it wont make the fuel econ better, might not change or make it worse. im running about 9L avg right now :( up to mid 8s - 10.5l per 100km from my 5.8-7.5l per 100km i was getting in the summer. cant wait for some warmer temps

[Captain Mazda]

I haven't hit 7.9 since the summer of '12 :(

Hopefully this year will be better.

[416GXM3]

what gas are you guys using for your 2011 mazda 3?

[Booter22]

what gas are you guys using for your 2011 mazda 3?

in my 2010 - 87 as required. the odd time 91 or 94 for fun even though i know it doesnt make a difference

[416GXM3]

in my 2010 - 87 as required. the odd time 91 or 94 for fun even though i know it doesnt make a difference

I tried pioneer gas and saw a serious drop from 230-250 for half tank to 180-190... i think im gonna go back to shell

[Captain Mazda]

I don't know if it's a placebo effect, but I've been averaging about 7.5L/100km since I switched to Esso in April 0_o

http://badges.fuelly.com/images/sig-metric/125517.png (http://www.fuelly.com/car/mazda/3/2011/CaptainMazda/125517)

[greyseason]

i like petro

[trebororr]

I get similar fuel economy with my stock 2010. I don't drive it hard. Have the RX-8 for that purpose.

[Girds]

I'm sitting at 8.8l/100kms right now but just started my fuelly account
I only fill up at petro

[MoreYummy]

Why petro so special?

[Girds]

Why petro so special?

Idk I have a fuel savings card to save 10 cents per litre

[nomullies]

Getting 8.7 for my 2011 Mazda 3 hb manual.

[2012mazda3hatch]

So I drive a manual 2012 mz3 GS Skyactiv, I average 7.0 litres/100kms, I use 91 octane gas and mainly do country driving (80km an hour zones) very little city. My best was 6.16 litres per 100 kms, and my worst was 8.59/100kms... all my info is kept in the gas cubby app. Been driving for about 8 months with it now!

[sarujo]

So I drive a manual 2012 mz3 GS Skyactiv, I average 7.0 litres/100kms, I use 91 octane gas and mainly do country driving (80km an hour zones) very little city. My best was 6.16 litres per 100 kms, and my worst was 8.59/100kms... all my info is kept in the gas cubby app. Been driving for about 8 months with it now!

Why are you wasting $ on 91 octane fuel when the motor is designed for 87?

Now that my summers are back on and shed almost 7lbs per tire, I'm back down to the low 7's/100km combo of hwy, city and traffic with my 2.0L MZR + 5MT and using 87 octane from ESSO or Shell.

[morganc]

I'm normally 7.5 - 10L/100km depending on traffic and my left foot.

[Captain Mazda]

Living downtown sucks for fuel economy but I do well with good habits

http://badges.fuelly.com/images/sig-metric/125517.png (http://www.fuelly.com/car/mazda/3/2011/captainmazda/125517)

[Flunk]

Here's my lifetime fuel economy. Not too great.
http://badges.fuelly.com/images/sig-metric/31421.png (http://www.fuelly.com/car/mazda/3/2010/quix/31421)

[Booter22]

Here's my lifetime fuel economy. Not too great.
http://badges.fuelly.com/images/sig-metric/31421.png (http://www.fuelly.com/car/mazda/3/2010/quix/31421)

wow my 2010 is 7.8

[oriley]

2010 GX Sport Manual
Summer around 780(best 840)
Winter around 700

[ZoomZoomZda]

Hi all, I got a 2010 Mazda 3 2.5L. I bought it used around 4 months ago. Everything is superb about it except for the fuel economy. I been driving everyday for the pass like 4 months and on my display it shows Average fuel Economy of 16.2-16.3L/100KM. After reading through all the posts on this thread my numbers definitely not good and most likely something is wrong. I do over 95% city driving and seldom go on the highway. Can you guys give me some suggestion what I should and what may be wrong with it?

My car is missing the undertray cover underneath the engine(when I bought it), should this be a concern and could this be the cause of the extra fuel consumption? thanks in advance for help!

[jeff7670]

Hi all, I got a 2010 Mazda 3 2.5L. I bought it used around 4 months ago. Everything is superb about it except for the fuel economy. I been driving everyday for the pass like 4 months and on my display it shows Average fuel Economy of 16.2-16.3L/100KM. After reading through all the posts on this thread my numbers definitely not good and most likely something is wrong. I do over 95% city driving and seldom go on the highway. Can you guys give me some suggestion what I should and what may be wrong with it?

My car is missing the undertray cover underneath the engine(when I bought it), should this be a concern and could this be the cause of the extra fuel consumption? thanks in advance for help!

You need to replace that tray. Yes it is for aerodynamic reasons but it stops all the road dirt and salt from ending up in your engine bay. If you do 95% city driving I think that the fuel economy you're seeing is to be expected. Perhaps you should have got then 2.0L SkyActiv as you don't use the 2.5's extra power often.

[ZoomZoomZda]

You need to replace that tray. Yes it is for aerodynamic reasons but it stops all the road dirt and salt from ending up in your engine bay. If you do 95% city driving I think that the fuel economy you're seeing is to be expected. Perhaps you should have got then 2.0L SkyActiv as you don't use the 2.5's extra power often.


Maybe I should have gone for the 2.0L but I like the extra punch with the 2.5. Couple of the posters here also got the 2.5L but they're getting between 8.3 to 11L/100km...a missing undertray wouldn't cause0 that big of a different in fuel consumption? It's more or less consuming twice as much.

[Default User]

Maybe I should have gone for the 2.0L but I like the extra punch with the 2.5. Couple of the posters here also got the 2.5L but they're getting between 8.3 to 11L/100km...a missing undertray wouldn't cause0 that big of a different in fuel consumption? It's more or less consuming twice as much.

A lot of it has to do with driving habits

A heavy foot at the lights (not necessarily speeding), long idle, and even the winter fuel - all play a part in fuel consumption.

Try keeping it under 2,000 RPM and see if there is an improvement.

[McGuyver_3]

Maybe I should have gone for the 2.0L but I like the extra punch with the 2.5. Couple of the posters here also got the 2.5L but they're getting between 8.3 to 11L/100km...a missing undertray wouldn't cause0 that big of a different in fuel consumption? It's more or less consuming twice as much.

Are you only believing your onboard fuel calculator? If so, don’t. Always calculate it yourself, amount of L filled divided by km driven and multiply by 100. This will give you the real number. Since you do all city driving, expect to have higher consumption this is 100% normal. Then it depends on how hard you accelerate, incline, decline, weather, fuel quality, amount of people in the car, cargo, clean air filter, even the tires can make a difference on your car. There’s a bunch more but when they do testing for fuel Econ, they drive in a straight line on the most perfect conditions.

[mikey3]

I have 2013 gx 2.0 hatch 114k. I've notice that my fuel consumption has gone down quite a bit within the past few months. Ive done all
regular maintanence, oil change 0-20 filter oem, engine air filters, ngk spark plugs, cleaned out the mass air flow sensor and throttle body (which was filthy)
Even got some good comfort tires. but my km seems to still be bad. I was thinking it could be my tranny fluid. I haven't flushed it out yet (dark brown and ugly
sometimes my cars hesitates and has a mild jerk when trying to give it gas. besides that she runs good.

[mikey3]

i do mostly city driving, ocassional highway. very easy on the pedal !!
i use to get 460-500 mix ish. now im only getting roughly 420 before the light comes on.
any suggestions

[Captain Mazda]

Have you done a fuel line flush yet?

[Woodnut]

When I first bought my Mazda I was disappointed with the fuel usage. It was no better then the Mazda3 I just traded in. But I have been doing some playing around. Here are a few things I found.
When the gas light comes on I still have 120Km left in the tank. There is about 45 - 50Km before the last light goes out and about 70KM before you run out, and yes I have miss calculated a few times and have run out. (3 times)
I know a lot of people don't like using the bottom of the tank, but I have always done it with no problems. By doing this I went from 450 - 500 to 500 - 600+km per tank. This is a combination of mostly city driving and some hwy.

For the last 6 months I have been working in London Ont. I live in Burlington, so round trip is 260 - 300 per day. So I really started to play around with what I can do so I am not filling up every 2 days or less.
Today I rolled the trip odometer. When I pulled into the gas station I was 1011.5 KM for a single tank. How? I over fill the tank. I slowly started putting more in every fill up. Last fill up I was able to put in another 15L of gas. My gas light had just come on and the price was down at the gas station. The pump popped at 41L. I overfilled it to 56L. The first light on the gas gauge didn't go off till I hit 320KM. By half tank I was at 600KM. when I finally drove into the gas station (3rd day on this tank) I was at 1011.5 KM and the pump popped at 48L. From My calculations I still had about 7L left, but I didn't have a gas can and wasn't going to push it any more. Now I do 98% hwy driving. I keep my speed down to 110km - 120km. No A/C and only use front defrost when needed. I do carry about 200lbs of tools in my car. For gas I just use the cheapest, usually from Husky. I have 209000+ km on my car. Still have the originally spark plugs. I don't always change the oil on time but did change the trany oil at 200K
Don't take my word for it, go out and see how far you can go (bring a gas can if you are really going to push it). I am sure every car is a bit different.

NOTE: Yes I know you not suppose to over fill the tank as gas needs to expand. I only do this before I drive 1.5hrs to work or on the way home. So far I have never seen or smelled gas around my car. I don't recommend over filling it this much and just letting it sit.

[Booter22]

Woodnut as much as i like your story i wouldnt advise to overfill it that much at all. maybe 2-5L max maybe. but 10-15 + L is way to much to overfill regardless of how far you are driving right away.

[G ~ MINI]

Currently at about 7liters per 100kms...mods and tuned for extra HP and im always in gear and always spirited driving mode.

For those older high mileage engines ...time to clean out all those years of gunk
Im biased toward Liqui Moly ..love their stuff. Recommending you do.
(Liqui Moly preferred or another product)

Fuel system cleaner then do a Engine oil Flush and fill with MolyGen 5W30 with a high flow oil filter
https://www.liqui-moly.us/en/products/molygen.html

I know the non turbo require 0 weight oil but as your engine gets older wear n tear increases so does the gap between metal parts
and a little bit thicker oil helps. Besides...this product is formulated low friction and also has alot of
anti fiction stuff included that it runs like a 0w30..(no additional anti fiction needed) .
And its Green ... tbh i got it because it was green...lolol... it florescent green so any leaks are detectable ....

[Booter22]

Over the 173 000 km i have tracked im about 7.3L/100 km with a cold air intake, mazdaspeed cat back exhaust ( no tune) . running 0W20 for most of the engines life the odd time 5W20. she sees redline a few times a week, my last tank managed to get 5.1L/100KM my best over was 4.3 somehow. overall.. :( :complain :bang have spent $16,000 in fuel.

on a sad side note about the actual cost of fuel.. my jeep grand cherokee 3.6L V6 has tracked 77,000km and averages about 10.9L/100km i have spent about $9,555 so far.