Mazda Announces New Engines And Reduces EV Spending At The Same Time
Mazda has officially announced the Skyactiv-Z, an all-new gasoline engine set to debut in the next-generation Mazda CX-5, expected in late 2027. The engine will be paired with a hybrid system, and Mazda claims it will offer higher thermal efficiency and a broader operating range than current Skyactiv-G and Skyactiv-X engines.
Key Points
- Mazda is launching an all-new Skyactiv-Z gasoline engine in the next-generation CX-5, arriving in late 2027. T
- The 2.5-liter inline-four will be paired with a hybrid system and designed to meet Euro 7 and North American emissions regulations without sacrificing power.
- Mazda is scaling back its EV investment, reducing spending from ¥2 trillion to ¥1.5 trillion ($10.2 billion to $7.7 billion) and partnering with Toyota and Changan for battery technology.
The 2.5-liter inline-four is being developed to meet Euro 7 emissions regulations in Europe and LEV IV and Tier 4 standards in North America. Mazda says the new engine will be in compliance with strict emissions rules without having to sacrifice power. The company claims its existing engines would need to be detuned by 30% to meet the latest regulations.
Mazda will apply the latest version of its SPCCI (Spark Controlled Compression Ignition) combustion technology to the new engine. SPCCI tech was first introduced in the Skyactiv-X engine. This system aims to combine diesel-like fuel efficiency with the high-revving characteristics of a gasoline engine. Mazda describes its approach as reaching the “ultimate combustion threshold”, optimizing the air-fuel ratio to maximize efficiency and minimize emissions.
In addition to Skyactiv-Z, Mazda is continuing development of its rotary engine as a range extender, following its use in the MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV. A new two-rotor setup is already in the works for a U.S.-bound model, possibly inspired by the Iconic SP concept.
Meanwhile, Mazda is adjusting its electrification strategy. The company has scaled back its EV investment from $10.2 billion to $7.7 billion, choosing to partner with Toyota and China’s Changan for battery development rather than developing its own systems.
Mazda’s first in-house electric SUV is expected to launch alongside the new CX-5.
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An experienced automotive storyteller and accomplished photographer known for engaging and insightful content. Michael also brings a wealth of technical knowledge—he was part of the Ford GT program at Multimatic, oversaw a fleet of Audi TCR race cars, ziptied Lamborghini Super Trofeo cars back together, been over the wall during the Rolex 24, and worked in the intense world of IndyCar.
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