While diesel-powered automobiles have been popular in Europe for decades, they are just recently becoming available in the United States. Although diesel is generally more expensive than traditional gasoline, the fuel economy is often considerably greater. This explains the popularity of the diesel powertrain in Europe, where gasoline is considerably more expensive than it in the United States.
The Mazda CX-5 Diesel
After many years of speculation, Mazda is finally bringing a diesel powertrain version of the CX-5 crossover to the United States market. The diesel engine will be a modified version of the 2.2-liter power plant in the European version. To bring it to North America, and specifically the United States, Mazda had to engineer the engine to comply with the strict emissions standards that don’t exist elsewhere in the world.
In Europe, the 2.2-liter diesel makes up to 173 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Design alterations and improvements for the American market could increase those numbers, which will result in a capable and fun-to-drive vehicle. Mazda has also indicated they have developed systems to keep the engine quiet and intrusive noise out of the cabin. Add that to the already-versatile package that is the CX-5 and what results is a segment standout.
How Does a Diesel Engine Work?
In a gasoline engine, a spark ignites the fuel and air mixture, pushing the piston down and powering the engine. The gas is atomized and injected into the combustion chamber, mixed with air, and the spark creates the ignition.
Diesel engines work differently. The compression stroke only compresses the air, which elevates its temperature. When the air is completely compressed, the atomized diesel is injected into the cylinder, igniting immediately from the surrounding heat. There is no spark needed for a diesel engine. Diesel also burns more efficiently than gasoline. This results in more power from less fuel, and thus, increased fuel economy.
Benefits of Diesel
Alternative fuels are not new to the automotive world. Hybrid systems and even completely electric cars have been around for several years. However, to many people, there is something appealing about the traditional combustion engine. Diesel combines the best of both worlds: increased fuel economy while still having a traditional engine.
At the time of this writing, it is unclear exactly when the CX-5 diesel will be available. Various outlets have reported that Mazda indicates they are committed to bringing the diesel powertrain to the United States. Moreover, there has been speculation that Mazda is working with the EPA and CARB to achieve final approval for the engine and its emissions system. When the CX-5 Diesel does launch, it is sure to be not only a standout in the midsize crossover segment but a fun-to-drive alternative to gasoline power.
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