It’s a big missed opportunity, I think.
I’m surprised Mazda hasn’t introduced the MHEV or SkyActiv-X to North America for the Mazda3. I know mild hybrids don’t offer much better fuel economy than basic hybrids, but it’s better than nothing.
This makes me think they only use them to meet emissions standards in places like Europe.
I’m okay with Mazda continuing to improve their engines, but it’s been ten years since SkyActiv-G was first introduced, and I don’t see much improvement with the inline 6 or the turbo.
I think Mazda is in a tough spot, but only time will tell.
@Bell
They’re focusing heavily on large SUVs.
I appreciate the SkyActiv-X Mazda3.
It’s efficient and not like the Corolla.
I appreciate the SkyActiv-X Mazda3.
It’s efficient and not like the Corolla.
I totally agree. A Mazda3 hatchback with 50 mpg to compete with the Civic would be amazing. That’s what I’m looking for. I also wonder why they haven’t announced anything yet.
@Lex
A 50 mpg hatchback?
Kiran said:
@Lex
A 50 mpg hatchback?
My mistake. I meant MPG.
I’m surprised Mazda didn’t bring the MHEV or SkyActiv-X to North America for the Mazda3.
You won’t like it. The SkyX is very fuel-efficient, especially on highways, but it’s not very responsive; it feels almost like a diesel.
I would love a Rav4 hybrid drive on the CX30, but it would take up the already limited cargo space. I guess I could install rooftop cargo storage, but I want better city mileage.
@Grier
There are engines that are more responsive and efficient. Even Hyundai/Kia’s 1.6 turbo powers their small, medium, and SUVs.
Whitney said:
@Grier
There are engines that are more responsive and efficient. Even Hyundai/Kia’s 1.6 turbo powers their small, medium, and SUVs.
Sure, but remember that the SkyX has a large displacement (2.0L) and is naturally aspirated, so it achieves the same power and energy use at lower RPM.
@Grier
The Mazda3 SkyActiv 2.0 has 132kW at 6000rpm and 224Nm at 3000rpm.
The Hyundai 1.6T has 150kW (5500-6000rpm) and 275Nm (1750-4500rpm).
That contradicts what you said, right?
Whitney said:
@Grier
The Mazda3 SkyActiv 2.0 has 132kW at 6000rpm and 224Nm at 3000rpm.
The Hyundai 1.6T has 150kW (5500-6000rpm) and 275Nm (1750-4500rpm).
That contradicts what you said, right?
Are you comparing naturally aspirated engines to naturally aspirated engines? It seems like the turbo is what makes the difference here. The trend is to have smaller turbo engines, so the SkyX is special because it’s one of the few still naturally aspirated on the market.
@Grier
Exactly. That’s why nearly everyone has gone turbo, for more power and better response, while being more efficient.
And also why some have gone hybrid, and some are going electric.
@Bell
It’s been 11 years with the SkyActiv-G with no major changes. They are no longer leading the class in economy or power, and the world isn’t moving to full electric quickly. So Mazda needs a next step.
@Bell
SkyActiv-X was in the works.
No one can be sure.
the biggest issue is that Mazda is a relatively small company, so they might not have many options to develop their own hybrid system.
What they’ve mostly been doing is using other companies’ technology (like Toyota), but that can be difficult.
The Mazda2 hybrid exists. It’s basically a rebadged Yaris but still called Mazda2 hybrid.
Rafe said:
The Mazda2 hybrid exists. It’s basically a rebadged Yaris but still called Mazda2 hybrid.
Mazda2 is probably never coming back to America in any form, I think, which is a shame.
@Keaton
I miss my Mazda2. It was taken out by a red light runner.
Only Mazda knows for sure.
I’d like a mild hybrid Mazda3 or an 8-speed with ventilated seats, please.