Mazda’s reputation as one of the more innovative car brands has been further enhanced with the New Zealand launch of the revolutionary Skyactiv-X engine, soon to be available in the Mazda CX-30 and Mazda3 models.

Mazda’s new 2.0 litre Skyactiv-X engine is the world’s first production petrol unit to exploit the benefits of diesel-like compression ignition. Following the introduction of Skyactiv engine technologies in 2012, Skyactiv-X represents Mazda's next step towards the development of the ideal internal combustion engine as part of Mazda’s multi-solution approach to achieving Sustainability.

Mazda has now combined the high-revving performance of a petrol engine and the fuel efficiency, torque and response of a diesel. Skyactiv-X features Mazda's revolutionary Spark Controlled Compression Ignition (SPCCI). The engine switches seamlessly between conventional spark ignition and compression ignition combustion by using a spark to trigger both types of combustion in different ways.

How does it work?

In Spark Plug Controlled Compression Ignition (SPCCI) mode, a split injection process creates separate zones of fuel-air mixture inside the combustion chamber. First, a very lean fuel to air mixture is injected into the combustion chamber during the intake stroke, then a zone of atomised fuel is precisely injected directly around the spark plug during the compression stroke.

The small injection of atomised fuel directly around the spark plug builds a richer core. When the spark fires, it ignites this core of fuel and air. This increases pressure in the combustion chamber to the point where the lean mixture rapidly combusts.

Greater gains in fuel economy

Skyactiv-X also features the new Mazda M Hybrid system. This is compact and efficient, and the mild hybrid system features a belt-driven integrated starter generator (ISG) and a 24V lithium-ion battery. It supports greater gains in fuel economy by recycling energy recovered during deceleration and powering the ISG, functioning as an electric motor, to assist the engine.

The all-new Mazda Skyactiv-X engines comply with the Euro 5 emission standards and achieve a combined fuel consumption of 5.5L (automatic)/100km and combined CO2 emissions of 135g/km (for the Mazda3 Takami).

New Zealand firsts

The Mazda3 and CX-30 will be the first vehicles in New Zealand to feature the revolutionary Skyactiv-X engine in the new top of the range Tamaki grade and will be available from October 2020.

Mazda has developed this engine in the knowledge that internal combustion engines will help power the majority of cars worldwide for many years to come, and engines like Skyactiv-X, alongside electrification technologies, can make a significant contribution to reducing carbon dioxide emissions now.

Model range and pricing