Mazda SkyActiv Diesel Engine

[tditom]

looks like they're serious about it:

September 16, 2010​

Frederick, MD – The Diesel Technology Forum (DTF), the nation’s leading advocate for the use of clean diesel technologies, is pleased to announce that Mazda North American Operations is the newest member of the association.

“This is an exciting time for American drivers as Mazda will soon be the first Japanese automaker to offer clean diesel technology in the U.S. market,” said Allen Schaeffer, executive director of the Diesel Technology Forum. “This will provide a more fuel efficient choice without sacrificing driving performance for American drivers.”

“Mazda is pleased to join the Diesel Technology Forum as we prepare to introduce our first modern, clean diesel-powered vehicle to the US market,” said Mazda Vice President of Public and Government Affairs Jay Amestoy. “The DTF is playing a vital role in helping consumers understand today’s diesels are clean, fuel efficient and fun to drive.”

Mazda’s SKY-D diesel offering will join a dozen other diesel cars and SUVs now available in the U.S. market. Diesel car sales last month (August 2010) were up a whopping 52 percent from the previous August, and up by 20 percent over July 2010, highlighting American consumers growing recognition of the benefits of clean diesel technology as a new fuel efficient, economical choice with proven long-term value.

“Mazda has become one of the leaders in the production of safe and fuel efficient automobiles both in the United States and throughout the world. Their commitment to improving fuel efficiency and reducing CO2 emissions is reflected in their entrance into the U.S. diesel automobile market,” Schaeffer said. “We are extremely pleased to welcome Mazda North American Operations to the Forum.”

Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., Mazda North American Operations oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada and Mexico through nearly 900 dealers.

The all-new next-generation SKY Concept powertrains are the product of Mazda's ongoing Sustainable Zoom-Zoom strategy. The SKY-D (diesel-based) concept engines will deliver the sporty driving experience that Mazda is known for, coupled to superior eco-friendliness. Fuel economy will improve 20 percent on the SKY-D.

 

[66Stang]

BHTOOFER might get his diesel Miata yet!

Would make a nice companion to his 99.5 Golf 2 door....

 

[eyeguy]

Do you even have snow where you live?

In a city like Ottawa, where the winters are very harsh and a lot of salt is used..... You see a LOT of rust!!

In comparison to you, not really! We do get a fair amount of snow, & with my job, that car saw more than its fair share of snow & salt! WV loves to use salt too. Not sand, not cinders, just salt.
I was pretty OCD with keeping that car in perfect condition, so I'm guessing that keeping it waxed helped. Nothing stuck to that paint!
If/when they make this happen, I will be taking a very hard look at whatever they offer. I won't be the first in line to buy, but if the engine & transmission prove to be reliable, I'll be buying at least one. Probably a 5 for my wife. The only thing her 5 needs to make it perfect is a diesel engine!

 

[VW Derf]

looks like they're serious about it:

September 16, 2010​

Frederick, MD – The Diesel Technology Forum (DTF), the nation’s leading advocate for the use of clean diesel technologies, is pleased to announce that Mazda North American Operations is the newest member of the association.

“This is an exciting time for American drivers as Mazda will soon be the first Japanese automaker to offer clean diesel technology in the U.S. market,” said Allen Schaeffer, executive director of the Diesel Technology Forum. “This will provide a more fuel efficient choice without sacrificing driving performance for American drivers.”

“Mazda is pleased to join the Diesel Technology Forum as we prepare to introduce our first modern, clean diesel-powered vehicle to the US market,” said Mazda Vice President of Public and Government Affairs Jay Amestoy. “The DTF is playing a vital role in helping consumers understand today’s diesels are clean, fuel efficient and fun to drive.”

Mazda’s SKY-D diesel offering will join a dozen other diesel cars and SUVs now available in the U.S. market. Diesel car sales last month (August 2010) were up a whopping 52 percent from the previous August, and up by 20 percent over July 2010, highlighting American consumers growing recognition of the benefits of clean diesel technology as a new fuel efficient, economical choice with proven long-term value.

“Mazda has become one of the leaders in the production of safe and fuel efficient automobiles both in the United States and throughout the world. Their commitment to improving fuel efficiency and reducing CO2 emissions is reflected in their entrance into the U.S. diesel automobile market,” Schaeffer said. “We are extremely pleased to welcome Mazda North American Operations to the Forum.”

Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., Mazda North American Operations oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada and Mexico through nearly 900 dealers.

The all-new next-generation SKY Concept powertrains are the product of Mazda's ongoing Sustainable Zoom-Zoom strategy. The SKY-D (diesel-based) concept engines will deliver the sporty driving experience that Mazda is known for, coupled to superior eco-friendliness. Fuel economy will improve 20 percent on the SKY-D.

looks like they're serious about it:

Yes, that would be a serious first step joining VW, MB, BMW, Bosch and others at DTF (Diesel Technology Forum). Here is the list of DTF members:
http://www.dieselforum.org/about-the-forum/member-information

While some may or may not be interested in a diesel Mazda, the additional benefit I see is that this will help bring more clout to the use of diesel in passenger cars in North America. Since they are now a part of the DTF this can only help the state of diesel cars in the US (and hopefully as a by product in Canada as well).

 

[Oberkanone]

MazdaSpeed diesel possibility

http://www.autospies.com/news/Hit-O...iesel-Performance-For-Next-Mazdaspeed3-57199/

MazdaSpeed3 may go diesel.

 

[Derrel H Green]

But Probably Will Not



I will believe that when I see one!

I don't know that I have all that many years left to witness such a 'happening!'



d

 

[Quanger]

Kudos to mazda for trying to make an effort in introducing more diesel engines. I know most of us here are very brand loyal but a little competition will benefit us all. I however would not consider purchasing a mid size sedan whether its gas or diesel. It's just not versatile. I would be more attracted to compact or smaller mid size diesel SUVs and even light duty diesel pickups such as the Amarok or whatever it's called.

Generally speaking, Japanese cars excel when it comes to reliability when compared to German\european cars. They're design is more simplistic and they are generally easier to maintain. However, when you shut the door on a japanese car (luxury models excluded) it sounds cheap. Build quality would have to go to German\European cars.

 

[rocketeer928]

Such old skool wishes...many autos now meet or beat sticks in the mpg wars, unlike autos of the past.

Maybe so, but my wife and I feel that manual transmission vehicles are much better for control with snow tires during those Northeast snowstorms. It's not just about mpg.

Also, manuals are much more fun to drive than an auto. I choose to disregard the auto paddle shifting nonsense, as it's just not the same. If we consumers only had manual transmission vehicles than it would be harder for the numb-skulls to use their mobile phones while driving, and thus causing countless unnecessary accidents. Rant, rant, rant...

And, I'm not that old... I'm not even close to the half century mark.

 

[tlhfirelion]

OK, stupid, stupid question here, but I'm gonna ask anyways so don't blast me. Is this engine a TOTALLY new engine? I mean is the Diesel new to North America, but already overseas elsewhere, or is this an entirely new set up? If it's entirely new, I will be forced to wait at least a year, if not 2-3 to see if the reliability and performance is up to par. Also, is this a proven transmission or is that new too? I prefer automatics.

If it's just a new release of an already existing engine overseas then I'm good to go. My rule of thumb is to NEVER buy a new release of a car for at least a year or two as I don't like being a guinea pig.

Thanks.

 

[German_1er_diesel]

Mazda DOES currently have a 2.2L engine in Europe which replaced a 2.0L (which was known for a VERY problematic particulate filter system, the 2.2 is too new for reliability data)
The Sky-D seems to be completely new with super-low compression and a new twin-turbo system.

The Sky-Drive automatic is also all-new.

 

[tlhfirelion]

Mazda DOES currently have a 2.2L engine in Europe which replaced a 2.0L (which was known for a VERY problematic particulate filter system, the 2.2 is too new for reliability data)
The Sky-D seems to be completely new with super-low compression and a new twin-turbo system.

The Sky-Drive automatic is also all-new.

Thanks!!

 

[abctdi]

OK, stupid, stupid question here, but I'm gonna ask anyways so don't blast me. Is this engine a TOTALLY new engine? I mean is the Diesel new to North America, but already overseas elsewhere, or is this an entirely new set up? If it's entirely new, I will be forced to wait at least a year, if not 2-3 to see if the reliability and performance is up to par. Also, is this a proven transmission or is that new too? I prefer automatics.

If it's just a new release of an already existing engine overseas then I'm good to go. My rule of thumb is to NEVER buy a new release of a car for at least a year or two as I don't like being a guinea pig.

Thanks.

Not stupid at all, in fact probably the most pertinent to this discussion.

 

[Mike_04GolfTDI]

Right on! Maybe there will be a diesel revolution and everyone will start driving diesel cars!

The demand for diesel fuel will go up, and so will the price.

Gasoline will become the alternative fuel used by weirdos who want to save money. We'll have to start a "gasserclub.com" website.

 

[BRUSSELS BELGIAN]

I'll Be First!

I'll make everyone a deal. I'll be returning(hopefully) from the Sinai in 2012. Then, I'll grab a Mazda6 Sky-D, and bring it up to the next GTG at the House of 5 Garages. Julie and Rachel (Mazda gals) will evaluate the "6" versus the VW offerings.

 

[bhtooefr]

BHTOOFER might get his diesel Miata yet!

Would make a nice companion to his 99.5 Golf 2 door....

Hey, it was actually rumored that Mazda was going to do a short run of them for a British MX-5 enthusiast club, but they decided not to do it due to the low RPMs.

 

[tikal]

Bring it on!

If it comes close to 53 mpg and is not overpriced, sign me up. Jetta TDI would have some tough competition.

We have a Golf TDI and a Mazda 5 (gasser of course). I'll be all over a Mazda 5 diesel. Are you kidding me? I have driven a Touran TDI in Europe and I think Mazda can do even better ...

 

[bombero]

Right on! Maybe there will be a diesel revolution and everyone will start driving diesel cars!

The demand for diesel fuel will go up, and so will the price.

Gasoline will become the alternative fuel used by weirdos who want to save money. We'll have to start a "gasserclub.com" website.

Doubt there will ever be a diesel revolution until the prices come down on par with RUG and can stay there.

 

[Oberkanone]

Sustainable Zoom Zoom

http://www.montrealgazette.com/cars/Mazda+chooses+optimize+existing+technologies/3543262/story.html

 

[abctdi]

Hey, it was actually rumored that Mazda was going to do a short run of them for a British MX-5 enthusiast club, but they decided not to do it due to the low RPMs.

Yeah, those tdi's at LeMans don't rev nearly enough to win...rpms don't win, speed does.

 

[bhtooefr]

Keep in mind that the entire point of the Miata isn't to be fast, but rather to be fun. I know of Miata owners that put the cheapest crappiest tires on their cars on purpose - because then the car slides around more, and is more fun.

 

[kjclow]

Right on! Maybe there will be a diesel revolution and everyone will start driving diesel cars!

The demand for diesel fuel will go up, and so will the price.

Gasoline will become the alternative fuel used by weirdos who want to save money. We'll have to start a "gasserclub.com" website.

Part of the problem currently driving diesel pricing up, is that the demand and profit are lower than gasoline. The refineries have had to retool and add a treatment step to remove the sulfur to comply to the ULSD regulations. Those that have determined that the demand did not warrant the expense are just pushing most of that distillate fraction back into the cracker and forcing it into gasoline or high profit producing fuels.

The distillate fraction that includes diesel, home heating oil, karosene, and jetfuel, just by a refinery process stand point, should be at least 15% lower than regular gasoline. This fraction is typically about the second thing that comes out of the reactor, meaning that the energy required to produce it is much less than gasoline. So, more demand for diesel should actually see the price come back down below regular.

As for the topic of mazda bringing a diesel to North America, I will believe it when I see them on the lots. Where is the Subaru diesel that was supposed to be released for the 2010 model year?

 

[Dooglas]

Mazdas are nice cars. The only aspect that will likely keep me in the VW line for awhile is that I have a trusted guru to keep me on the road. If I had to depend on VW service, I would be gone already.

Let's not be too optomistic here. I owned a Mazda 626 for several years. I liked the car, though the auto transmission did give me some trouble. Dealer service and warranty claims were not so great, however. My experience with the local VW dealership has been far better. (And sure, once out of warranty, anyone is probably better off with a small, independent shop that you know and trust - VW, Mazda, Mercedes, or Ford)

 

[bodywash]

Part of the problem currently driving diesel pricing up, is that the demand and profit are lower than gasoline. The refineries have had to retool and add a treatment step to remove the sulfur to comply to the ULSD regulations. Those that have determined that the demand did not warrant the expense are just pushing most of that distillate fraction back into the cracker and forcing it into gasoline or high profit producing fuels.

The distillate fraction that includes diesel, home heating oil, karosene, and jetfuel, just by a refinery process stand point, should be at least 15% lower than regular gasoline. This fraction is typically about the second thing that comes out of the reactor, meaning that the energy required to produce it is much less than gasoline. So, more demand for diesel should actually see the price come back down below regular.

As for the topic of mazda bringing a diesel to North America, I will believe it when I see them on the lots. Where is the Subaru diesel that was supposed to be released for the 2010 model year?

Doing quite well in Europe

 

[Jack_Berry]

believe it when it appears. too many unfulfilled promises of "diesels to come to america"

 

[johnson05]

I owned a mazda3. Hated it. Why? Because it had a guttless engine unless you revved it to the moon. Other than that it was a great car and I go top dollar for it when I traded it in. If subaru brings a diesel over.. hold on I meant to say Honda.. No I meant Nissan.. or was it Toyota. You see its the same thing every year. Some exec makes an off the wall comment and then a thread is started that runs on for 50 pages and three years and then it just fades in to history. One of the problems is that VW is such a crappy run company. They never supply enough TDI's so their sales numbers look low. Other manufactures look at that and say Hey VW only sold this many diesels. Even Audi is saying oops I guess we grossly underestimated demand for our diesel models in NA. If the civic type R came with a diesel I would buy one. If the subaru impreza came with a diesel I would buy one. If the ford focus came with a diesel I would buy one. Yes if a Mazda 6 came with a diesel I would buy one. Is it going to happen. History says not any time soon....

 

[BeetleGo]

The reference to Japanese companies bringing their diesel over is well founded. But the German companies are importing and SELLING theirs. The Audi in particular is doing well with their TDI engine.

Audi:

http://green.autoblog.com/2010/03/02/audi-sales-surge-with-help-from-diesels/

And BMW:

http://www.bimmerfest.com/news/445420/bmw-us-sales-up-2.6-in-march-2010-over-march-2009

And Mercedes:

http://www.usatoday.com/money/autos/2010-04-27-dieselcars27_ST_N.htm

VW:

http://media.vw.com/press_releases/clean-diesel-fuels-volkswagens-june-sales

German diesels are doing well in NA.

 

[kjclow]

A co-worker of my wife's has a M350 blu-tec. I was surprised at how loud it was compared to my JSW. That's how I realized it was a diesel. I was also surprised by how close in size and style it was to my 2008 CR-V. Given that the only major difference is the towing capabilities because of the diesel engine, I'm fairly certain that I would not pay twice the price for the Mercedes.

Not at all surprised that Audi is outselling their estimated diesel demands. VW would also sell more if they would free up more engines for North America. According to the dealer, when I was in for my 10K service, since the new engines are so low in emissions, the EPA has removed the import contraints and we should start to see the 2.0 engine used in most of the vehicles on the VW lot. Again, believe it when I see it!

 

[Brian B]

....very rust prone. Totally different class than a VW.

I would have to agree with this staement. My wife had a Mazda Protege and the rust was terrible on it. My neighbour bought an older mazda 3 style(the original) and had rust after only 2 years.

Although my wife just bought the new Mazda3 2.5 GT (I love the car) BUT I know Mazda has changed nothing about the terrible Rust problems

I would serious think about getting one BUT I wish they would put it in the Mazda3, Hell even the new Mazda2. I think they would get more buyers who are looking at fuel savings.

Just my two cents

 

[booty]

Rust

I had an 87 626 that I kept for 11 years. It was a great car. I sold it with 325,000 hard interior Alaska miles and I sold it only because I was tired of it. It was still running good and looking good with not a bit of rust. Salt on roads here is only used in the sand and never just salt. Also roads only get sanded when needed (very slick not just slick).
I would buy another Mazda in a heartbeat if it were diesel and not priced high like the Jetta.

 

[Kniteman77]

Diesel Rotary anyone?