Mazda has lifted the covers on its new SkyActiv range of technology with the unveiling of its first next generation engine. The 1.3-litre petrol engine has a record 14.0:1 compression ratio, the highest of any road-going petrol engine, which helps it to be more efficient than previous petrol units.
The 1.3-litre engine produces 84hp at 5,400rpm and 112NM of torque at 4,000rpm. Made from aluminium and using direct injection, Mazda says the engine will be capable of using just 3.3 litres/100km (85.2mpg).
Helping the new engine achieve this average economy figure is Mazda's 'i-Stop' stop-start system to switch the engine off when the car is not moving. Mazda has refined its system to use less fuel when restarting the engine.
SkyActiv is Mazda's new technology that embraces all manner of ways of saving fuel and making its car more efficient. The technologies also include new diesel engines that are on the way, lighter transmissions and new ways of making car bodies and chassis.