SKYACTIV – Automobiles Review

Mazda is named Best Car Brand for the third time. Check out why!

Yes, it has happened for a third time. Mazda has been awarded the prestigious Best Car Brand award by US News & World Report. Praised for aesthetics, advanced drivetrain system solutions and numerous hi-end features, Mazda team confidently greets the new 2018 season year.

In order to determine the winner, US News Best Cars jury has given scores to all competitors, based on certain requirements. And what has caught the eye, was Mazda’s elegant body language, the well-known KODO technology, the advanced technology settings and the meticulous engineering. And as expected, the team has earned the highest available score and was of course, named the winner in the category. In fact, the overall score came directly from the US News Best Cars ranking that place the competitors one after another based on information, gathered from automobile press, safety scores and overall reliable data.

Of course, contribution to the high score was given by Mazda’s obsession with small details, constant refinement of technologies and the innovative SKYACTIV technology that is still one of the most advanced in the world. And let‘s not forget one of the most important things, as it comes to automobile driving: Mazda vehicles deliver incredible driving experience and pleasure.

Source: Mazda

February 25, 2018

Mazda3 comes refined, enriched and more powerful. Here are some details

2016 Mazda3 Continuing to raise its profile as one of the best choices in the C segment, Mazda3 hatchback and sedan model lineup has been further refined with the new and powerful Euro 6-compliant, 105hp (78kW) SKYACTIV-D 1.5 turbodiesel.

As any vehicle enthusiast will tell you, this upgrade significantly increases Mazda3’s competitiveness in the segment. But not only that: the new engine also features low compression ratio of 14:8:1 and distinctive variable turbine geometry turbocharger. What it does is to generate CO2 emissions as low as 99g/km and to return average fuel economy from just 3.8l/100km.

2016 Mazda3

And as expected, this is just one aspect of the overall improvement. Along with the precise SKYACTIV technology, the vehicle also catches the eye with KODO – Soul of Motion design. With its innovative, lightweight and ultra-stiff body construction, the Mazda3 remains one of the lightest and most elegant vehicles in the whole C-segment.

Also, for 2016 model year, the brand enhanced looks and convenience with 18-inch dark alloy wheels, black half leather, half suede upholstery with red stitching and an Aero kit, DAB radio, rear camera and passenger seat lifter.

2016 Mazda3

Of course, let’s not forget that with great power comes and great suite of safety features! Mazda3 benefits from Forward Obstruction Warning, Smart City Brake Support, Lane Departure Warning System and Mazda Radar Cruise Control. Sweet.

Source: Mazda

May 19, 2016

What Will We See at Mazda’s Stand At 2016 Geneva Motor Show?

2016 Mazda RX-VISION Concept There is good reason to wait for this year’s Geneva International Motor Show and it is indeed Mazda’s plan to showcase the award-winning RX-VISION Concept and the efficient and sweet Mazda3 in combination with SKYACTIV-D 1.5-liter clean diesel.

The first vehicle, the RX-VISION Concept will demonstrate Mazda’s idea for the future of sport cars. This one links with brand’s unique RX-badged production models and shines as symbol of power, beauty and emotion. Also, this will be the vehicle to introduce KODO – Soul of Motion that won the RX-VISION “Most Beautiful Concept Car of the Year” award at the Festival Automobile International in France.

On the other hand, we will also see how a fine vehicle as Mazda3 benefits from a SKYACTIV power unit. The award-winning engine system is efficient and functional and will offer linear acceleration, quick response and overall smooth ride. As you might remember, it was first showcased back in 2014 at the Geneva Show and was available for Mazda2 and Mazda CX-3.

Also on stage in this year’s Geneva event will be the latest and greatest Mazda MX-5, fresh and geared with tons of incredible features. The fourth generation of the well-known roadster has already won about 15 prizes that include Japan Car of the Year 2015-2016, Auto, Motor & Sport best import convertible for 2016 and What Car? magazine’s best convertible overall.

Mazda’s exhibit can be found at stand 5150 in hall 5 of Geneva’s Palexpo convention centre.

Source: Mazda

February 11, 2016

Mazda and SKYACTIV: Beneficial or Useless Union?

2014 Mazda3 Mazda geared the smooth and trustworthy 1.5-liter SKYACTIV-D diesel power unit to the Mazda3. Having made its debut in the all-new Mazda2 and Mazda CX-3 models, the 105hp (77kW) powerplant will significantly boost Mazda3’s performance and will also contribute to additional fuel efficiency.

Designed for fleet and private customers the SKYACTIV-D, mated to a six-speed SKYACTIV-MT manual gearbox emits only 99g/km and offers a combined 74.3mpg. It will be available with hatchback and Fastback body shapes and will also be offered with the optional six-speed automatic transmission.

The new powerplant will ensure that Mazda3 will have some additional power and hidden tricks. With its 270Nm of torque and 0 to 100km/h (62mph) for 11.0 seconds sprint, this sweetie really deserves its attention.

This advanced engine also features high-dispersion solenoid fuel injectors to suppress cooling losses and provides optimal injection efficiency for any situation and any given condition. This all means the SKYACTIV powerplant offers enhanced combustion and refined smooth driver. Furthermore, the combustion chamber offers special “shouldered” design that suppress flow around the lip of the chamber and prevents combustion gas cooling.

And as you might have expected, this unit comes as standard with Mazda’s i-stop idle-stop system that delivers world’s fastest restarts on a diesel engine. with complex turbine geometry and boosted low engine speeds, the SKYACTIV-D delivers high levels of flexibility and response.

So far, so good. But the question remains: what do you think about the fresh change?

Soure: Mazda

November 25, 2015

Fleet Managers Are Really Interested in Mazda’s Latest Models

Mazda team aims for a 25 per cent increased fleet sales in 2015/2016 and managers are convinced, that they have just the right range model to achieve this goal. In fact, fleet decision-makers, that attended the Fleet Show at the Silverstone complex were attracted to the brand, when they saw stylish vehicles, reliability, wonderful performance and low CO2 emission, that are result of Mazda’s innovative SKYACTIV technology.

At the show, fleet managers had the chance to drive the redesigned Mazda2 with petrol and diesel engines, Mazda3 and the wonderful 2015 Mazda CX-5, as well the latest 2015 Mazda6. Fleet managers also had the chance to see the latest Mazda CX-3, that will go on sale next month.

In addition, the Civil Aviation Authority already has the Mazda5 and Mazda6 models on its fleet and it is expected, that the rest of the Mazda models will be soon fit in the fleet policy . Graham Hubbard, the world’s largest railway manufacturer is also interested in Mazda brand and the reliability of its models. And he was especially interested in the brand, after he drove Mazda3 2.2-Liter 150 hp (110 kW) SKYACTIV-D Fastback, that brings exceptional fueleconomy, measured at 72.4mpg.

Now, after all the tests and wonderful results for Mazda team and the future premiere of additional Mazda models, the fleet managers just cannot ignore the brand.

Source: Mazda

May 20, 2015

2014 Mazda3 SkyActiv-G

Mazda has unveiled the new ‘3’ model, which is now available with the brand’s award-winning SKYACTIV technology. The model joins to the well-known Mazda6 and Mazda CX-5, which also benefits from the same technology. It delivers low carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions and first-class fuel economy.

The 1.5 liter SkyActiv -G petrol with 100HP (74 kW) boasts an impressive 17 % reduced CO2 emissions compared to the previous generation 1.6 liter petrol.

“MPG from all-new Mazda3 SKYACTIV-G petrol engines is phenomenal and as average company car mileage reduces many drivers do not require a diesel engine model. Furthermore, businesses and drivers benefit from the lower pump price of petrol.”, commented Mazda Head of Fleet Steve Tomlinson.

“Many companies’ link vehicle choice lists to a monthly lease rate allowance and drivers typically select models that deliver the best value for money. The combination of power, performance and specification delivered by the all-new Mazda3 petrol engine range twinned with low CO₂ and top-notch MPG is proving very attractive when factored against a monthly lease rate, which reflects annual mileage and excellent residual values.”, he added.

The all-new Mazda3 is available in both a Hatchback and Fastback (saloon). The engine range of 2014 Mazda3 includes a 1.5 liter SkyActiv-G with 100HP, a 2.0 liter with either 120HP (88 kW) or 165HP (121 kW). The diesel range includes SkyActive-D 2.2 liter with 150HP (110 kW). Petrol engine models offer fuel economy from up to 55.4 mpg UK and CO₂ emissions from as little as 119g/km, while the diesel engine, which meets EURO 6 regulations and returns up to 72.4 mpg UK with emissions from just 104g/km.

2014 Mazda3 is priced from £16,695 OTR and is available in three trim levels – SE, SE-L and Sport Nav.

Source: Mazda

June 13, 2014

Mazda SKYACTIV-D 1.5 liter Diesel

Mazda has unveiled full details about the newly developed four-cylinder, 1.5 liter SKYACTIV-D clean diesel engine. It will power the next generation Mazda2 and boasts a number of technologies improving not only the performance, but the fuel consumption as well. The new engine complies with EURO 6 regulations.

Combined with Mazda’s i-stop idling stop technology, i-ELOOP brake energy regeneration system, and high-efficiency SKYACTIV-DRIVE automatic transmission or SKYACTIV-MT manual transmission, the SKYACTIV-D 1.5 will ensure the all-new Mazda2 achieve among the highest level test mode fuel economy figures for a vehicle powered solely by combustion engine in registered vehicles excluding hybrid and micro-mini vehicles in Japan, as well as drastically improved practical fuel economy.

It is another example of how Mazda is implementing its long-term vision for technology development, Sustainable Zoom-Zoom, which promises to deliver all Mazda customers both driving pleasure and outstanding environmental and safety performance.

The new engine delivers 105HP (77 kW) at 4,000RPM and 250Nm (185 lb-ft) of torque at 1,500RPM.

Key features of the SKYACTIV-D 1.5

Development pursued ideal combustion efficiency despite the lowest compression ratio of any small displacement diesel engine—14.8:1.
Cooling loss is suppressed by combustion mode transition control technology, and high dispersion solenoid injectors which, along with stepped egg-shaped pistons, help to reduce contact between the flame and chamber wall.
The range of homogeneous lean burn is extended through the adoption of high-pressure EGR and low pressure EGR systems, resulting in improved fuel economy, environmental performance and performance feel.
Engine cooling system features cooling water control valves (CCV) and water jacket spacers^*4 for improved combustion efficiency and reduced mechanical resistance.
Variable turbine geometry turbocharger with rotation sensor delivers plentiful boost pressure from low through to high engine speeds.
Water-cooled intercooler integrated into the intake manifold improves acceleration response and turbocharger efficiency.
Outstanding environmental performance to meet Japan’s Post New Long-term regulations and Euro6 emission standards without an expensive NOx aftertreatment system.

Source: Mazda

June 11, 2014

2014 Mazda3 – Improved Design and Fuel Efficiency

Mazda has officially unveiled the 2014 Mazda3 looking quite sleek and sporty. The model boasts Kobo design philosophy which has already been used on the CX-5 and Mazda6.

Lower and leaner than its predecessor, this third generation Mazda3 shares almost nothing with its older siblings other than a name. All new from the ground up, the 2014 Mazda3 sits on a wheelbase of 106.3 inches, which is 2.4 inches longer than the previous generation, yet the hatchback is 1.8 inches shorter in length at 175.6 inches. With a height of 57.3 inches and a width of 70.7 inches, the Mazda3 reduces its ceiling by 0.6 inches and gains 1.6 inches in the hips while retaining similar headroom space and offering rear legroom at 35.8 inches. The rear seatbacks are nearly 2.0 inches taller for added passenger comfort. Front and rear shoulder room also has increased to 57.2 and 54.4 inches, respectively. This efficient use of space is wrapped in the increasingly striking dimensions of KODO, Mazda’s “Soul of Motion” approach to designs that exude emotional proportions and refined strength.

The interior boasts higher quality materials and improved design. There are new instrument cluster, satin chrome trim, piano black accents and more comfortable seats which can be upholstered in cloth, leatherette or leather.

Other interior highlights include a new infotainment system with Bluetooth/USB/AUX connectivity as well as the ability to access the internet via a smartphone.

The engine range includes 2.0 liter SKYACTIV-G with 155HP (115 kW) and 203Nm (150 lb-ft) and a 2.5 liter SKYACTIV-G with 184HP (137 kW) and 250Nm (185 lb-ft). They can be mated to a SKYACTIV-MT 6-speed manual or SKYACTIV-Drive 6-speed automatic.

To improve fuel efficiency, the Mazda3 has i-ELOOP brake energy regeneration and a SKYACTIV-Body that uses high-strength steel for “significant weight savings.”

The safety systems are High Beam Control, Blind Spot Monitoring, Forward Obstruction Warning, Smart City Brake Support and Radar Cruise Control.

Source: Mazda

June 26, 2013

2014 Mazda6 – US Price $20,880

Mazda North American Operations has announced the price list for the all-new 2014 Mazda6. The car is priced from $20,880 excluding $795 destination charge. This is the second vehicle in the Mazda lineup to fully incorporate SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY, the brand’s breakthrough engineering approach toward increasing overall vehicle efficiency. Offering both powerful performance and improved fuel economy.

The entry-level i-Sport is powered by a four-cylinder 2.5 liter engine with 186 (137 kW) and 250Nm (185 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to a 6-speed manual gearbox or a 6-speed automatic available as an option. With the manual, the car achieves 25 mpg in city, 37 mpg on the highway and 29 mpg on combined cycle. With the automatic, it returns 26 mpg in city, 38 mpg on highway and 30 mpg on combined cycle.

The standard equipment includes a push-button start, air conditioning with a pollen filter, power windows with a driver-side one-touch up/down feature, a tilt-and-telescopic adjustable steering column, steering-wheel-mounted audio and cruise control functions, 17” alloy wheels as well as auxiliary and USB connection ports.

When equipped with the optional SKYACTIV-Drive automatic, other added features include Bluetooth phone/audio connectivity, a 5.8” color touch screen display, a rearview camera, HD Radio Technology, Pandora, Radio Broadcast Data System program information, SMS text message receipt/delivery, E911 automatic emergency notification and audio menu voice command.

The mid-range i-Touring is priced from $24,495 and it adds 19” alloys, dual-zone automatic climate control with rear seat vents, 6-way power driver’s seat and leather-trimmed sport seats.

The top-of-range i-Grand Touring is $29,495 – power moonroof, bi-xenon HID headlights, rear lip spoiler, heated front seats and a four-way power front passenger seat.

Source: Mazda

January 4, 2013

Mazda Demio 13C-V Smart Edition II

The Mazda Demio (or Mazda2) 13C-V Smart Edition is getting a samllish update and from now on, it will be known as the Mazda Demio 13C-V Smart Edition II. Fair enough but there’s a problem – only Japan is getting it. Don’t worry, there’s a reason for that.

Because it’s now 0.4 km/l more economical than before, the 13C-V Smart Edition II qualifies for a 50% reduction in tax according to Japan’s eco-car tax reduction program. Now, if we trust the country’s JC08 mode test cycle, we should be able to cover 20.6 km on a single liter of fuel. That… number basically will make the Smart Edition II much more desirable as it moves closer to the 13-SKYACTIV version which is completely exempt from taxes.

If that doesn’t catch our attention, then maybe the rear roof spoiler will do the trick. There’s also a undercover added. As optional extras, you can get a keyless entry system for it as well as an automatic liftgate and start, front fog lights and auto-leveling low-beams.

The 13-SKYACTIV will be available with three color options for the interior (that includes the Border Black shade when taken with the Sporty or Comfort package).

Source: Mazda

May 30, 2012

2013 Mazda CX-5 featuring SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY offers environmentally friendly fun

Mazda CX-5 SUV Thumb 2013 Mazda CX-5

The brand-new generation and one of the most efficient Mazda ever is the all-new 2013 Mazda CX-5, which will hit the growing European compact crossover SUV market in the spring this year. What is ore important here is that the new CX-5 model will feature the ground braking SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY. The latter is Mazda’s innovative new line-up of engines, transmissions, chassis and bodies. It is especially developed for cars which are affordable, fun yet economical to drive, and environmentally friendly. The figures are more than impressive: at 4.6 l/100 km and 119 g/km, the CX-5 with SKYACTIV-D diesel engine has combined cycle fuel economy and CO2 emissions. This makes it one of the best in its segment not only in Europe, but also all around the world.

The key design behind the innovative SKYACTIV technology is the internal combustion. And namely this technology is going to be the predominant engine technology for the next decade, with industry coverage of at least 80%. Mazda made a great step into improving the basics of internal combustion power, coming up with a range of unique innovations. The idea is to progressively supplement this enhanced basis – SKYACTIV petrol and diesel engines – with advanced technology. From the i-stop idle-stop system and regenerative braking to hybrid systems and more, their efficiency will continually enhance. This strategy stands under the name “Sustainable Zoom-Zoom”, and it goes beyond optimizing internal combustion. What is more here is that the Sustainable Zoom-Zoom is also about lightweight designs. Here Mazda’s goal is to make each new model generation 100 kg lighter than its predecessor. The ultimate goal for 2015 is to improve the average fuel efficiency of its global model line-up by 30% relative to 2008 levels.

New Mazda CX-5 diesel CO2 emissions and fuel consumption:

Model	FWD 150 PS 6MT	FWD 150 PS 6AT	AWD 150 PS 6MT	AWD 150 PS 6AT	AWD 175 PS 6MT	AWD 175 PS 6AT
Average fuel consumption (l/100 km)	4.6	5.3	5.2	5.5	5.2	5.5
CO2 (g/km)	119	139	136	144	136	144

Source: Mazda

February 20, 2012

2012 Mazda CX-5 – Price £21 395

Mazda has announced the new 2013 CX-5 at the Frankfurt Motor Show, last year. The all new vehicle is now available on the UK market with a competitive price starting from £21 395 and rising to £28 795 OTR.

The engine range offers a 2.0 litre SKYACTIV 165PS petrol and 2.2 litre SKYACTIV 150PS or 175PS diesel variants. All are offered with either manual or automatic transmissions, 2WD or AWD, and four equipment levels – SE-L, SE-L Nav, Sport and Sport Nav.

Depending on model, the all-new Mazda CX-5 will return a fuel consumption figure of 61.4 to 47.0mpg (combined cycle) and achieve remarkably low CO₂ emissions for a compact SUV of 119 to 144g/km. With a rating of 119g/km the Mazda CX-5 150ps diesel 2WD model is significantly below the class average of 147g/km measured across 11 rivals.

The standard equipment (SE-L) includes 17” alloy wheels, front fog lights, dual‑zone climate control air-conditioning, Smart City Brake Support and privacy glass, plus front and rear parking sensors. Moving up the CX-5 range, Sport grade models will feature 19-inch alloy wheels, Bi-Xenon headlights with Active Front Lighting System, full leather trim, heated front seats, powered driver’s seat and a reversing camera.

While production for the UK market is likely to be limited this year, Mazda has established a pre-ordering facility that will enable customers to order a Mazda CX-5 via their local dealership, allowing them to become one of the first customers to own a vehicle featuring SKYACTIV technology.

Mazda CX-5 / Price List – February 2012

2WD SKYACTIV-G	‘On the road’ Retail	CO₂ (g/km)	RFL Band	Insurance Group	P11D Value	Annual BIK 20 / 40%
2.0 SE-L	£21,395	139	E	TBD	17%	£722 / £1,443
2.0 SE-L NAV	£21,795	139	E	TBD	17%	£735 / £1,471
2.0 Sport	£23,595	139	E	TBD	17%	£796 / £1,593
2.0 Sport NAV	£23,995	139	E	TBD	17%	£810 / £1,620
2WD SKYACTIV-D
2.2 SE-L (150)	£22,995	119	C	TBD	13%	£596 / £1,193
2.2 SE-L NAV (150)	£23,395	119	C	TBD	13%	£607 / £1,214
2.2 SE-L Auto (150)	£24,295	139	E	TBD	20%	£965 / £1,930
2.2 SE-L NAV Auto (150)	£24,695	139	E	TBD	20%	£981 / £1,962
2.2 Sport (150)	£25,195	119	C	TBD	13%	£654 / £1,307
2.2 Sport NAV (150)	£25,595	119	C	TBD	13%	£664 / £1,328
AWD SKACTIV-D
2.2 SE-L (150)	£24,695	136	E	TBD	20%	£981 / £1,962
2.2 SE-L NAV (150)	£25,095	136	E	TBD	20%	£997 / £1,994
2.2 SE-L Auto (150)	£25,895	144	F	TBD	21%	£1,080 / £2,160
2.2 SE-L NAV Auto (150)	£26,295	144	F	TBD	21%	£1,097 / £2,193
2.2 Sport (175)	£27,195	136	E	TBD	20%	£1,081 / £2,162
2.2 Sport NAV (175)	£27,595	136	E	TBD	20%	£1,097 / £2,194
2.2 Sport Auto (175)	£28,395	144	F	TBD	21%	£1,185 / £2,370
2.2 Sport NAV Auto (175)	£28,795	144	F	TBD	21%	£1,202 / £2,403

NB‘On the road’ prices include 20.0% VAT, number plates, delivery, 12 months road fund licence, first registration fee, 3 year or 60,000 mile warranty and 3 years European Roadside Assistance.

All models are available with free 7-day drive away insurance.

Source: Mazda

February 14, 2012

Tag: SKYACTIV