With the unveiling of the Skyactiv-D-equipped 2019 Mazda CX-5 Signature AWD at the New York auto show, Mazda’s long-awaited diesel has finally landed in America. We’ve known this one has been in the works for a long time, but now, after several years of setbacks and delays, Mazda says it has leaped over all of the requisite regulatory hurdles and is ready to bring it to market.
At least at the outset, the oil-burner — can we still call them that post-emissions scandal? — is being positioned as a premium powertrain. The diesel CX-5 is priced at $42,045 (including $1,045 destination fee; in Alaska, that fee rises to $1,090, so you’ll pay a whopping 45 bucks more all told). Since this is offered only on the range-topping Signature trim, you are getting a loaded vehicle. Yet we’ll note that opting for Skyactiv-D adds a very hefty $4,110 premium over the gasoline engine.
Here’s what you’ll get for your money. According to Mazda, the Skyactiv-D twin-turbocharged 2.2-liter engine produces 168 hp at 4,000 rpm and 290 lb-ft of torque at 2,000 rpm. Redline is 5,500 rpm. EPA fuel economy estimates are 27 mpg city, 30 mpg and 28 mpg overall.
This is down on power compared to the 187-hp 2.5-liter gasoline four available on Sport, Touring and Grand Touring CX-5 trim, but way up on torque (compare to that motor’s 186 lb-ft). The 2.5-liter turbo four offered on Grand Touring Reserve and Signature trims, however, bests it with 227-250 hp (depending on fuel octane) and 310 lb-ft.
With all of its torque accessible from 2,000 rpm, we expect the Skyactiv-D-equipped CX-5 to be as sprightly on the road as its gasoline-powered variants. We shouldn’t have to wait long for a drive — pre-sales for the vehicle are open now. Whether it can carve out a niche in a market that, with a few exceptions, seems to have largely moved beyond diesels in the years since Mazda first announced its Skyactiv-D plans remains to be seen.
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