2012 Mazda3 Update Debuts In New York With SkyActiv Engine

Mazda has at least revealed details for its all-new 2.0 litre four-cylinder SkyActiv-G petrol engine, set to debut in the 2012 Mazda3 that was revealed at Toronto in February.

The Mazda3 will be the first model in the carmaker's line-up to launch with a Skyactiv engine, along with the Skyactiv-MT six-speed manual transmission and the SkyActiv-Drive six-speed auto.

The SkyActiv-G engine utilises multi-hole injectors and a higher compression ratio of 12.0:1. Power has increased from 108kW to 115kW, and torque has climbed from 182Nm to a round 200Nm. 

For the sedan, fuel consumption when paired with the SkyActiv-MT manual is listed at 8.7 l/100km for city driving and 6.0 l/100km on the highway.

The current MZR 2.0 litre petrol engine returns 10.8 and 6.2 l/100km respectively, when combined with a six-speed manual transmission.

Paired with the SkyActiv-Drive six-speed auto, the SkyActiv-G petrol engine returns 8.4 l/100km in the city and 5.8 l/100km in highway driving. 

In five-speed auto form, the current MZR 2.0 litre petrol engine returns 11.3 and 6.3 l/100km respectively.

While the fuel savings are largely thanks to the new engine and transmission technologies, the SkyActiv Mazda3 models also gain some aerodynamic improvements that include larger underbody covers and an optimised front bumper design.

Styling updates for the 2012 Mazda3 include a redesigned front grille, foglight bezels and headlights.

Australia

Mazda's new SkyActiv-G petrol engine, and the SkyActiv transmissions, are expected to debut with the updated Mazda3 later this year.