Mazda's revolutionary SkyActiv-X engine in the Mazda3 has been a coveted powertrain that the rest of the world has yet to enjoy. In the United States, for example, the compression-ignition gasoline engine – or Spark Ignition Control Compression Ignition (SPCCI) in Mazda-speak – is still unconfirmed at this point. So much so that the U.S. gets the powerful turbocharged Mazda3 first.
Then again, Mazda isn't done yet with its
development of the SkyActiv-X engine. In fact, the new power plant gets an
update in Japan, which, to nobody's surprise, involves mild electrification. Now
called the e-SkyActiv X engine, Mazda said that it optimized the combustion
control, improved the supercharging, and added a 24V AC synchronous motor into
the mix. This resulted in torque and output increase – from 177 horsepower to 188 hp, and from 224 Nem to
240 Nm.
The increased power output also comes with
other updates such as the improved coil spring and dampers across the 2021
Mazda3 range in Japan. Some characteristics of its adaptive cruise control have
also been updated "to better suit human characteristics," while the
Cruising & Traffic Support (CTS) gets a higher operating speed, though
Mazda didn't disclose the number.
The updated e-SkyActiv X is
now available in Japan for the 2021 model year, along with other updated
variants like the diesel-powered version of the compact car. It's also
available in both sedan and hatchback body types. Mazda has yet to announce
when it will be available in other markets where the complex engine is being
offered. Of note, the current SkyActiv-X engine is only being offered in Europe
and Japan. As for the rest of the world, well, all we can do is wait.
