Mazda has announced that it will not abandon the Skyactiv-X engine and intends to continue its development. Additionally, the company plans to develop engines with larger displacements.

Mazda's achievements in the field of internal combustion engines are undeniable, but the widespread adoption of the Skyactiv-X engine has been slower than anticipated. There have been rumors suggesting that this engine might be discontinued. However, the company recently stated in interviews that there are no plans to discontinue the Skyactiv-X engine. Furthermore, Mazda is actively developing engines with larger displacements.



In 2019, Mazda introduced the Skyactiv-X engine in the Japanese and European markets, which was initially featured in the Mazda3 and CX-30 models. While this engine performed well in the European market initially, its performance in the Japanese and Chinese markets fell short of expectations. Currently, Mazda's Skyactiv-X engine has a displacement of 2.0 liters. Compared to the Skyactiv-G engine of the same displacement, the maximum output has increased from 120 Hp/212 Nm (the European version has significantly lower horsepower due to emission regulations) to 187 Hp/240 Nm. Additionally, fuel consumption has decreased by 20%, and emissions have reduced from 127g/km to 121g/km.

The achievement of such results is attributed to the adoption of compression ignition technology (HCCI), typically used in diesel engines, in this vehicle. Furthermore, to mitigate the tendency of gasoline engines to experience knocking after compression ignition, Mazda incorporated innovative Spark Controlled Compression Ignition (SPCCI) technology, which combines compression ignition with spark ignition. Additionally, to improve the mixture of atomized fuel and air, the manufacturer added a mechanical supercharger to the engine. However, it's important to note that this mechanical supercharger does not contribute to increasing engine power.


 

While the engine technology may be impressive, it's ultimately ineffective if there's no demand for it. Interestingly, Mazda has not introduced vehicles equipped with the Skyactiv-X engine in its largest single market, North America, where sales account for 30% of the brand's total sales. Local executives have indicated that the company plans to introduce naturally aspirated engines, hybrid engines, plug-in hybrid engines, and a new 3.0L Skyactiv-X engine in the North American market in the future to meet consumers' powertrain needs.

However, there is currently no indication whether Mazda will introduce the Skyactiv-X engine in the Chinese market.