Mazda’s new Skyactiv-D efficient diesel engine technologies are helping to switch motorists to cleaner diesel engines, the company claims.
While diesel cars are already very popular in Europe, where more than half of all new cars sold come with an oil-burner, in Japan they represent a mere 0.4 per cent of sales.
Yet the launch of Mazda’s CX-5 last year has led to the four out of five models sold in Japan to come fitted with the 2.2-litre SKYACTIV-D under the bonnet.
Currently, SKYACTIV engines, transmissions, chassis and body technologies are available in the UK on CX-5 compact SUV models, and the all-new Mazda6 Saloon and Tourer – with the addition of the i-ELOOP unique brake energy regeneration system that can boost fuel economy by up to 10 per cent.
What makes the firm particularly proud of its Skyactiv diesel technology is a 14:1 compression ration-unusually low for a diesel– which enhances fuel combustion and efficiency, while reducing harmful emissions, especially of nitrogen oxides (NOx).
Euro 6 emissions
It’s the only diesel to comply with Euro 6 emission standards without NOx after-treatment – long before the new standard takes effect in September 2014.
The engine’s variable twin turbocharger boosts torque and responsiveness throughout the rev range right up to the unusually high redline of well over 5,000rpm. Yet it still delivers best-in-class fuel economy and CO2 emissions – from 119g/km and up to 61.4mpg in the CX-5 and from 108g/km and up to 67.3mpg on the all-new Mazda6 sedan.
Mazda’s clean diesel technology is now destined for North America, another traditionally weak diesel market (at around 3 per cent). Scheduled for arrival later in 2013, the all-new Mazda6 will be the first passenger car powered by a modern clean diesel to be offered by any Asian manufacturer in the USA.
“Mazda’s SKYACTIV-D engines have what it takes to change people’s attitudes and overturn the negative preconceptions towards diesels that prevail in the U.S. and Canada,” explains Mazda North America President and CEO Jim O’Sullivan. “We think they’re going to make a huge splash, especially when you consider how our clean diesel technology addresses growing consumer concerns about rising fuel costs and the environment.”
Another advantage of the SKYACTIV-D is that it not only meets strict emissions requirements in Europe, but also in Japan and North America.
Faye has been writing about cars and environmental issues since 2007. A suspected eco-warrior working on the corporate inside, Faye mainly likes the weird, quirky vehicles that show a distinct environmental advantage. Her ideal car has enough room to fit a bale of hay in the boot. When not working, she likes nothing better than to head out on her bicycle and explore the countryside.
Faye Sunderland
January 31, 2013
Filed under: Mazda
Drew
I'm waiting for the diesel. I can't believe they're waiting so long. Who wouldn't want the power of a V6 with double the fuel economy? "But diesels represent only 3% of sales" - That's because there is only 1 company selling an affordable diesel. If all companies sold diesels, I'd bet they'd sell more than 3%.
March 12, 2013
Shao Huang
I was impressed with the all new gas powered 2014 Mazda 6, except the headrest, which was extremely uncomfortable. I hope the company will address that with the diesel version. I've heard a lot of folks complaining about the headrest of Mazda 3s and Mazda 6s.
January 31, 2013