Mazda is pushing ahead with development of its next-generation diesel models, despite the increasingly strong push towards petrol-electric hybrids.
The Japanese firm launched a new range of diesel powerplants last year, called Sky D. The motors feature two-stage turbochargers, low-friction engine blocks, direct injection and piezo-electric injectors.
The SKy D unit will feature in the next-generation Mazda 6, which is due in 2012. Mazda sources indicate that the Mondeo rival should be capable of emitting just 105g/km when equipped with the powerplant and accompanying efficiency tech including stop-start, a special six-speed transmission and regenerative braking.
Mazda believes that more efficient internal combustion engines - petrol and diesel - and its push towards lighter vehicles will remain relevant well into the middle of this decade.
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