Although Mazda doesn’t have an EV or a hybrid in its lineup at this time, the automaker still wants to lure green-thinking consumers to showrooms. With its SKYACTIV tech, the automaker believes it will be successful in doing exactly that.
The face-lifted Mazda2 hasn’t arrived in the U.S. just yet, but it has gone on sale in Japan and boasts a fuel economy rating that’s on part with most hybrids. Equipped with Mazda’s new SKYACTIV engine technologies, the Japan-spec Mazda2 (aka Demio) can reach more than 70 miles per gallon. And, because it lacks costly batteries and electric motors, the updated Mazda2 will cost Japanese consumers thousands less than the Prius.
According to Phoenix Mazda, U.S. consumers won’t be getting the SKYACTIV-equipped Mazda2 anytime soon. But SKYACTIV tech is coming this fall within the face-lifted Mazda3. After that, Mazda will launch the all-new CX-5 small crossover in the U.S., which will boast the new engine, transmission, and chassis technologies.
SKYACTIV combines direct injection, high compression, and stop-start engine technology with a new, more fuel-efficient transmission to improve fuel economy. Mazda Of Manchester said that although this technology is not as glamorous as some of today’s advanced hybrids and EVs, Mazda is betting that it will appeal to consumers that want MPG, but don’t want to pay a premium for it.
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