Mazda Putting Diesel Engine into New CX-5

Mazda Motor Corp. announced during its press conference at the Los Angeles Auto Show that it will offer the SkyActiv 2.2-liter clean diesel as an option in the CX-5 utility vehicle, beginning in the second half of 2017.

“We’re confident this engine offers a smart new option for North American drivers who want both performance and fuel economy,” said Akira Marumoto, Mazda’s executive vice president and representative director.

The 2.2-liter diesel used in the all-new CX-5 for North America provides a torque-rich driving experience. It will meet the region’s strict emission standards and make the CX-5 one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles in its class, Marumoto said.

The engine also adopts “Natural Sound Smoother and Natural Sound Frequency Control,” proprietary technologies that reduce diesel knock sound for a quieter and more pleasing sound.

Mazda first said it was preparing to bring a diesel engine to North America more than three years ago, but has repeatedly delayed the introduction because the company’s engineers were not satisfied with the engine’s overall performance, according to Jeremy Barnes, Mazda’s director of communications.

(Mazda sees red with new CX-5. Click Here for the story.)

Barnes said the engine not only had to meet emission standards, but also satisfy Mazda’s own standards for performance and spirited driving, which are critical to Mazda’s image.

However, Mazda is satisfied the diesel engine that will be used in the CX-5 will meet all of the requirements laid down by the external regulations and Mazda’s internal standards that insure the company’s vehicles are both efficient and fun to drive, Barnes said.

(Click Here for complete coverage of the 2016 L.A. Auto Show.)

General Motors also has announced plans to offer a diesel engine in the new Chevrolet Equinox despite the damage done to the reputation of diesels by the Volkswagen emission scandal. VW was the largest seller in the US. of vehicles equipped with diesel engines, but it has not been able to sell a diesel-powered vehicle for more than a year because of the emission cheating scandal.

Launched in 2012, the CX-5 was the first new-generation model featuring SkyActiv technology. It has since grown into a core model that is sold in more than 120 countries and accounts for approximately one quarter of Mazda’s global sales volume.

(SUVs dominate 2016 LA Auto Show. Click Here for the story.)

The all-new Mazda CX-5 crossover sport utility vehicle introduced in LA this week was completely redesigned. Every element of Mazda’s design and technology is expected to offer new dimensions of driving pleasure, Mazda executive noted.