After years of waiting, Mazda introduces its SkyActiv-D engine to the U.S.
It’s been years in the making, with some of us wondering whether Mazda would ultimately introduce their diesel engine to the U.S. market. Now, the wait is finally over, as the 2019 Mazda CX-5 Diesel is making its way to the U.S. Pre-sales have already started on the diesel model. In addition to actually seeing the car, we also have more details to share on the long-awaited engine.
Mazda’s 2.2-liter SkyActiv-D diesel engine has been around in other parts of the globe, but makes it to the U.S. with 168 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque. While that is a substantial amount of torque, it’s not quite as much as the 2.5-liter turbocharged gas engine. However, that does pay some dividends when it comes to fuel economy.
The 2019 Mazda CX-5 Diesel manages 27 City / 30 Highway / 28 Combined mpg with the 2.2-liter unit. By comparison, the 2.5-liter engine achieves 22 City / 27 Highway / 24 Combined mpg. On the whole, that’s about a 15 percent improvement over the gas engine, according to Mazda. However, there is a substantial price to pay for the diesel option.
Diesel CX-5 models will be available in four colors: Jet Black, Snowflake White Pearl, Soul Red Crystal and Machine Gray Metallic. The only diesel model available at the moment is the top-end Signature AWD, and it starts at a whopping $42,045 with a $1,045 destination charge. The diesel model will go on sale in July 2019.
After waiting for years of CARB certifications and other red tape, at least Mazda’s diesel engine has finally arrived. During their press conference, the company added a low-revving Mazda6 would be joining the lineup down the road as well. Let us know what you think in the comments below! Stay tuned to TFLcar.com for more updates.
Update 4/17/19: Added information about an upcoming diesel Mazda6.
