Used on the newest Mazda vehicles––from the Mazda3 and Mazda6 sedans to the CX-5 crossover, and soon to make its way onto the entire lineup––is the all-encompassing Mazda approach to car building using SKYACTIV® technology. SKYACTIV® is employed on everything, from the platforms to the engines and transmission to the regenerative braking systems.
It starts with the SKYACTIV-G engines. Both the four-cylinder SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter and 2.5-liter engines develop maximum power and fuel efficiency through various features. A high, 13:1 compression ratio that increases both efficiency and torque, advanced direct fuel injection, and a more efficient “4-2-1” exhaust system all create a rewarding driving experience while reducing fuel costs. The transmissions had to match the new engines, so engineers studied all the modern transmissions made and combined the best features of each to develop the SKYACTIV®-Drive six-speed automatic transmission, which shifts quickly and smoothly, and also helps improve fuel efficiency by up to seven percent. Likewise, the SKYACTIV®-MT six-speed manual is an improvement over other manuals, as it is smaller and lighter and has a connected, fun-to-drive nature that drivers crave.
The SKYACTIV® Body and Chassis are foundations of the newest Mazda models, and they accomplish two main goals. The first is weight reduction and the second is enhanced crash test performance. Body rigidity is up by 30 percent and weight has been reduces by up to 220 pounds on the Mazda6, which also helps improve handling and mileage.
In addition to the SKYACTIV® suite of technologies, Mazda employs some of the most cutting edge features in the automotive industry. Among them are the i-ELOOP regenerative braking system and Smart City Brake Support. The i-ELOOP system captures the kinetic energy generated through braking (normally wasted in other cars) and converts it to electricity. That electricity is then used to power some of the electronics, lessening power drain on the engine and improving fuel economy by as much as five percent.
Smart City Brake Support is a safety feature that can bring your Mazda to a complete stop (when you are travelling at speeds between two and 18 mph) to avoid a collision in the event that you fail to stop in time. Using a laser mounted in the front windshield, the system scans the road ahead of you and can both reduce engine power and apply the brakes if the driver fails to take action. Other impressive safety features include Mazda Radar Cruise Control, a Forward Obstruction Warning System, Lane Departure Warning System, and Bi-Xenon High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps.
The excellence of Mazda vehicles continues to attract the attention of the automotive media; one example is the 2014 Mazda3, which was selected by Car and Driver as one of their “10Best.” The all-new 2016 MX-5 Miata is also is sure to continue the trend when it’s released, as well.
Stop by today to learn more and to experience Mazda technology for yourself.
