With the addition of a diesel engine, the Mazda CX-5 compact crossover lineup just got a bit more comprehensive.
The Skyactiv-D 2.2-liter diesel engine, with sequential twin-turbochargers, is estimated to deliver a decent (for the segment) 168 hp at 4,000 rpm, but a whopping 290 lb-ft of torque at 2,000 rpm. Fuel economy is EPA estimated at 27/30 mpg city/highway. With gasoline prices inching upward (it’s more than $4 a gallon throughout Los Angeles), fuel economy may soon reappear on shoppers’ priority lists.
For those spooked by Volkswagen’s Dieselgate scandal, Mazda stated that it worked with federal and state agencies—including the notoriously strict California Air Resources Board – “to ensure that the Skyactiv-D 2.2 engine meets the required emission standards and passes all appropriate regulations.”
The CX-5 is Mazda’s best-selling vehicle, having recently surpassed the Mazda3 sedan/hatchback in the brand’s sales charts. How much diesel will contribute to the sales tally, however, is questionable, given the 2019 CX-5 Signature Diesel’s $42,045 starting price, including destination charges. A gasoline version in Signature trim costs $37,935 with destination.
Given its likely limited volume, the diesel will only be available in four colors: Jet Black or premium paint colors of Snowflake White Pearl, Soul Red Crystal, and Machine Gray Metallic.
MotorTrend took a shine to the CX-5 in our latest compact crossover Big Test, in which the Mazda finished a strong second place behind our 2018 SUV of the Year, the Honda CR-V.
Source: Read Full Article