An ultra-efficient diesel engine with 'SkyActiv' technology is going to be fitted under the nose of the all-new Mazda2 when it launches next year, the Japanese company has confirmed.
It's a brand-new 1.5-litre SkyActiv-D unit, taking its inspiration from the 2.2-litre version fitted to cars such as the Mazda3, Mazda6 and CX-5. The aim of these engines is to offer ideal combustion despite the very low compression ratio (14.8:1 in this case), which allows the SkyActiv-D to rev more than you might expect of a diesel.
It'll deliver 105hp at 4,000rpm and 250Nm of torque from 1,500- to 2,500rpm. Mazda's engineering ethos shines through in the bumf about the new 1.5, where the company says 'new innovations for the small-displacement newcomer to the SkyActiv range include an expanded homogenous lean burn range, even less mechanical resistance and new insulation technology to counter the increased cooling loss associated with a smaller engine'. All of which is a way of saying the engine will be cutting edge and offer amazing economy and low emissions, with Euro 6 compliance built in without recourse to a diesel particulate filter.
There will be a choice of two six-speed transmissions, optimised for efficiency, as well as stop-start functionality and brake energy recuperation. Mazda claims the 2 SkyActiv-D will achieve the best fuel economy of any combustion engine car available in Japan (excluding hybrids and micro cars).
Anything else?
Although an exact date for launch hasn't been confirmed as yet, and as such we're not sure precisely what the 2 will look like, there's a strong chance it will closely resemble the Hazumi concept seen at this year's Geneva Show.