31.1.2013 Mazda SKYACTIV engines prove popular

With the combination of class-beating performance, increased fuel efficiency and reduced CO2, Mazda's SKYACTIV-D clean diesel engines are attracting automotive experts and consumers worldwide.

The new diesel technology seems to have reached beyond traditional diesel strongholds and is proving a global success.

While diesel engines power more than half of all new passenger cars sold in Europe, they are virtually non-existent in Japan, previously representing a mere 0.4% of the passenger car market. Now, in contrast, four out of five Mazda CX-5s (80%) sold in Japan have a 2.2-litre SKYACTIV-D engine.

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%.

Mazda's SKYACTIV-D engine uses a 14:1 compression ratio – unusually low for a diesel and the lowest currently available – which enhances fuel combustion and efficiency, while reducing harmful emissions, especially of nitrogen oxides (NOx).

The remarkably smooth and quiet SKYACTIV-D is 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 SKYACTIV-D diesel engine 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. These figures make it a viable alternative to hybrids, for both business and private customers.

Mazda's clean diesel technology is now destined for North America, another traditionally weak diesel market (at around 3%). 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."

The SKYACTIV-D not only meets strict emissions requirements in Europe, but also in Japan and North America, meaning it is likely to be a popular choice in these markets. A 2.2-litre SKYACTIV-D engine has been short-listed for the '2013 International Engine of the Year' awards in Stuttgart, Germany during June 2013.