Mazda’s way to the future may be reverting to the past. The Japanese automaker believes that diesel engines will give it a competitive advantage over rivals offering hybrids. Hybrid technology is much newer and still vastly untapped, but Mazda, citing the success of Volkswagen, believes offering diesel engine options will help win favor among mpg-conscious shoppers.
Mazda’s CEO Jim O’Sullivan says Mazda sees the Volkswagen model as a way to lure buyers. “Volkswagen, I honestly believe, gets incremental business above and beyond other brands because they do have a diesel, and they buy Volkswagens only because they have it,” he said. A couple of months back we reported that Mazda would likely bring its Skyactiv-D engine to America, and that the 2013 Mazda CX-5 would likely be the first to receive it. The CX-5 hits showrooms this March and will be the first Mazda equipped with the full range of Skyactiv technologies, helping bolster fuel economy. The EPA estimates the 2013 Skyactiv CX-5 to achieve 29 mpg combined.
As for hybrids, Mazda is working with Toyota, an established leader in the field, to offer some hybrid models in Japan. Mazda’s hybrid future in the U.S. is still unclear, but for now it appears the Skyactiv-D diesel engine could be here as early as next year, and will likely debut on the CX-5.
Source: Automotive News (subscription required)
