To no one’s surprise, Mazda unveiled their new CX-3 SUV in preparation for the LA Auto Show. However, what caught a lot of attention was how the new Mazda CX-3 will have the option of the new SkyActiv-D diesel engine… except in the US.
This new engine, which features a low compression ratio of 14:8:1, offers less mechanical resistance due to the cooling water control valves and the water jacket spacers. To help improve upon the acceleration response and efficiency of the turbocharger, it has a water-cooled intercooler in the intake manifold and there is insulation technology that is used to reduce the amount of cooling lost that is usually associated with smaller engine sizes.
Reaching up to 103 hp at 4000 rpm, this engine is impressive despite the downsizing. The motor, according to Mazda, has “torque equal to a 2.5 liter gasoline engine” and power is supplied through a variable turbine geometry turbocharger that is equipped with a rotation sensor that delivers consistent boost pressure regardless of the RPM.
This new in-line four-cylinder direct injection 1.5-liter diesel engine will be able to offer improved fuel economy while still having the performance needed to get around while not deterring from environmental performance.
This means that the European models and the CX-3’s in the other export markets will be able to choose from three engines two of which are the petrol SkyActiv-G 2.0 liter engine and the other being this new clean SkyActiv-D 1.5 liter turbodiesel.
Combine this news with Chevrolet’s announcement yesterday of a new Duramax and Mitsubishi’s new aluminum diesel and it is apparent that the small engine diesel wars have begun!