Mazda Finally Brings Diesel CX-5 To America, Confirms Diesel AWD Mazda6, Too

While many automakers have started dropping diesels completely (be that only in America or widely), Mazda has just launched its first oil-burner in the United States. It powers the CX-5 Signature AWD compact SUV and is on display at the 2019 New York Auto Show.

The 2.2-liter Skyactiv-D unit features a sequential twin turbocharger that provides smooth response from low to high engine speeds, while increasing the low- and high-end torque. The mill produces 168 horsepower (170 PS / 125 kW) at 4,000 rpm and 290 pound-feet (393 Nm) of torque at 2,000 rpm.

Mazda says they worked closely with all federal and state agencies to ensure that the engine meets the required emission standards and passes all appropriate regulations. The unit returns an EPA estimated 27/30/28 mpg (8.7/7.8/8.4 lt/100 km / 32/36/33.6 mpg UK) in city/highway/combined, which it says, represents 15 percent better fuel economy over the equivalent gasoline model.

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“As Mazda continues our climb toward premium, we will offer more powertrain choices that premium customers expect”, said Mazda North America President Jeffrey Guyton. “I am happy to share that Mazda’s Skyactiv-D 2.2-liter diesel engine is joining the U.S. powertrain lineup with our debut model, the 2019 CX-5 Signature AWD with Skyactiv-D.”

The only standard exterior color available for the diesel-powered CX-5 is the Jet Black. For an extra buck, however, customers can have it finished in Snowflake White Pearl, Soul Red Crystal or Machine Grey.

Pre-sales of the vehicle kick off now, though first deliveries are set for this July. With an MSRP of $41,000, excluding the $1,045 destination charge, it’s about $4,000 more expensive than the petrol-powered Signature trim.

As Mazda announced during the press conference, the CX-5 Signature won’t remain their only diesel-powered vehicle in North America, as the Mazda6 will join the party with a low-revving engine of its own and all-wheel drive.