Mazda Diesel Moving in Japan, Export Markets

While Mazda remains noncommittal about the timing for introducing its Skyactiv clean diesel to North America, the automaker continues to sell the engine successfully in other markets.

Between April and December, the first three quarters of the Japanese fiscal year, Mazda delivered 142,000 diesel-powered cars, 12% of its total volume. Of the total diesel sales, 42%, or 66,242 units, occurred in Japan.

“We can meet U.S. emission standards and our internal performance targets, but not both,” says Robert Davis, senior vice president-Mazda North American Operations. “But we remain fully committed to the program.”

In Japan and Europe, Mazda sells diesel versions of the CX-3, CX-5, Mazda2, Mazda3 and Mazda 6. In Australia the engine is offered in the CX-3, CX-5 and Mazda 6.

Meanwhile, the auto maker will introduce the first turbocharged engine in its Skyactiv gasoline lineup this May with the launch of the all-new CX-9 CUV in May. The 7-seater will feature a 2.5L powerplant.

Skyactiv is Mazda’s trade name for a series of technologies designed to improve fuel economy and powertrain performance. In the current fiscal year ending March 31, the auto maker expects 85% of unit sales to be fitted with Skyactiv engines and transmissions, up from 74% in fiscal 2014.