What you need to know about Mazda\'s Skyactiv engine tech

Skyactiv is Mazda\'s blanket term for the latest and unique technologies for its new generation of vehicles starting with the CX-5, which was launched here last year.

One such aspect is the internal-combustion engine. The Japanese carmaker believes that the energy efficiency of current engine technology is only at 30%. So, instead of putting its resources in creating hybrid or electric vehicles, Mazda has looked to refine the internal-combustion engine even further.

Here, we look at the gasoline and diesel engines that Mazda has imbued with its Skyactiv technologies.

Skyactiv-G

Mazda\'s highly efficient direct-injection gasoline engine boasts of having the world\'s highest compression ratio for a mass-produced powerplant at 14:1, higher than that of a Ferrari 458 Italia\'s mill (12.5:1). Its other notable features are:

* Dramatically improved ignition and combustion resulting in improved fuel economy and increased torque output of 15%;

* Better performance due to its increased torque output from low to medium engine speeds; and

* A racing-inspired 4-2-1 exhaust system, increased displacement, multi-port injectors and other innovations to eliminate engine knocking.

Skyactiv-D

Mazda\'s latest-generation clean-burning diesel engine supposedly passes stringent global emission standards without the need for expensive catalysts to lower pollutants. Some of its new features are:

* 20% lower fuel consumption, thanks to an extraordinarily low 14:1 compresion ratio;

* New dual-stage turbochargers that offer smooth response and high precision from low to medium revs as well as high torque output from low to high revs; and

* Compliant with Euro 6 emission standards without needing costly catalysts to lower pollution.

\"Our Skyactiv technology can provide top-level fuel efficiency at very affordable pricing without compromising the driving pleasure,\" said Mazda Motor R&D director and senior managing executive officer Hirotaka Kanazawa.

Photos by Patrick Everett Tadeo

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