Mazda3’s SkyActiv-X engine tech to spread to other models

MAZDA’S CEO has revealed in Los Angeles the company’s revolutionary SkyActiv-X compression ignition engine will be fitted to its entire range.

Akira Marumoto, Mazda’s global president and CEO, made the announcement during a speech at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

“I am pleased to announce that starting from the all-new Mazda3, all upcoming new models will be equipped with the Skyactiv-X gasoline engine,” he said.

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“Skyactiv-X is one of Mazda’s ideal combustion engines. Thanks to SPCCI, which stands for Spark-Controlled Compression Ignition, this revolutionary power plant combines the free-revving characteristics of a gasoline engine with the efficiency, torque and fast initial response of a diesel engine.”

For those of you wondering how the SkyActiv-X engine works, we have a handy explainer here, and you can read our review of a prototype car here.

By ditching conventional spark ignition, Mazda claims the SkyActiv-X engine is able to achieve ground breaking efficiency in both fuel consumption and CO2 outputs.

Marumoto-san’s speech also reaffirmed the brand’s commitment to a well-to-wheel perspective in terms of eco-credentials, to “reduce CO2 emissions throughout the car’s entire life cycle”.

“We are targeting to reduce average CO2 emissions by 50 percent by 2030,” he said.

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“To achieve this, we will take a multi-solution approach tailored to each region. Such solutions include Mazda’s ideal internal combustion engines paired with hybrid, plug-in hybrid, as well as battery EVs with and without the rotary range extender.”