Mzada SlyActive Mekes Improvements to the Engine, Transmission, Body and Chassis

MIAMI--Oct. 21, 2013: Mazda introduced their line of SkyActiv technologies back in 2011, and in the last two years the technology has been vastly improved. SkyActiv technology continues to be implemented in the engine, transmission, body and chassis of new models which helps to increase overall safety, performance and fuel efficiency. It's the SkyActiv technology that is providing new Mazda models such as the 2014 Mazda6 with fuel economy ratings up to 40 mpg. Prior to Mazda SkyActiv technology, fuel economy ratings that high could only be found in a hybrid.

According to Mazda, the increased efficiency was achieved by increasing the engine's compression ratio. Typical gasoline-powered engines run at a compression ratio of 10:1, as they are limited by engine knocking. To reduce knocking, Mazda added a few innovations including a customized exhaust system, cavity pistons and multi-hole injectors. The improved systems allow SkyActiv engines to achieve a 14:1 compression ratio which assists in providing a 15 percent increase in both torque and fuel efficiency.

Adding to the high fuel economy is the lightweight SkyActiv body. Mazda reduced the weight of the frame by eight percent, but they increased the rigidity by 30 percent. The manufacturer has already proved that the new SkyActiv body is effective, as it has helped the new 2014 models to achieve the highest possible ratings in government crash safety tests.