It’s been years since Mazda has promised their 2.2-liter SkyActiv Diesel’s entry to the U.S. market. Now, it looks like there’s some progress toward getting it to market this year.
Diesel engines have been on shaky ground these past few years. From emissions cheating scandals to increasing electrification, diesels are becoming a rare sight, at least in light duty cars. Some manufacturers, however, are still introducing diesel options with their newest models. Hyundai, for instance, announced a 2.2-liter turbodiesel in their 2019 Santa Fe, forgoing the old 3.3-liter gasoline V6 in the process. Now, Mazda’s own 2.2-liter SkyActiv turbodiesel, available in global markets, but not the U.S., has been years in the making. Mazda originally slated a diesel version of its CX-5 crossover to go on sale last fall as a 2018 model. The 2.5-liter, four-cylinder gasoline version hit the market in that timeframe, but the diesel? It never surfaced, and there’s been no specific mention of when it will come to market.
CARB certifies Mazda CX-5 diesel engine
Now though, it looks like there’s been some progress. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) recently certified Mazda’s diesel engine, according to documents recently posted on their website. Specifically, it lists “Mazda Motor Corporation” as the certified party for a 2018 model diesel vehicle. Further down, on the last page of the document, it lists “2018 Mazda CX-5” – both 2WD and 4WD versions – as the certified vehicles.
For those still seeking a diesel option for greater fuel efficiency, the SkyActiv Diesel, when it does arrive, shouldn’t disappoint. Barring changes from the global version to suit our emissions regulations, the diesel CX-5 may crest 40 MPG. In its current form, the global market 2.2-liter SkyActiv-D engine makes 175 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. We’d expect a new version of this engine to have the same or slightly more power when it reaches our shores.
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Mazda CX-5 Diesel CARB certification document [Credit: California Air Resources Board]
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