MAZDA plans to improve the average fuel economy of its vehicles globally by a staggering 30 per cent by 2015.
While most manufactures at the Geneva Motor Show are displaying electric or hybrid vehicles as the way forward – Mazda believes there is an alternative.
The innovative Japanese company used the show to introduce its new SKYACTIV programme which will combine breakthrough innovations with state-of-the-art technology.
The result will be lighter stronger vehicles with more efficient engines and transmissions resulting in major reductions in fuel consumption and emissions.
Mazda claims that its new range of direct-injection petrol engines will feature the world’s highest engine compression ratio for mass production vehicles – more than a current Formula 1 car – resulting in improvements so great that they will be more economical than current diesels.
Diesel engines will also be cleaner. The one which is planned to replace the current 2.2-litre diesel will offer 20 per cent better fuel economy.
Weight will be reduced by using lighter materials, new bonding methods and use of high tensile steel.
New six-speed automatic transmissions will also be introduced and Mazda is confident that the SKYACTIV vehicles will make more sense than hybrids or plug-in electric vehicles.
At the same time a new range of light weight chassis will be introduced which will enhance ride quality and increase stability building on the company’s sporting image.
To preview the new technology Mazda displayed the Minagi – a handsome super-efficient SUV – which will be its first entry into the class.
It is firmly aimed at Ford’s Kuga and the BMW X1 and features all the new technology for the first time.
The Minagi builds on the company’s flowing Kodo design language and has a nice clean look with some dramatic touches.
It enjoys sweeping curves, a large shield-shaped grille which extends into the lights and although it is billed as a concept it is certain to be built later this year.
It is likely that the Minagi will become the Mazda CX-5 and will be built in two and four-wheel-drive versions.
Sources at Geneva also said that the cabin quality will be improved to a new level with the use of high quality materials designed to rival Audi and BMW.
Pricing will be competitive and the Mazda will probably also feature more standard equipment than its main rivals.
With its great looks and new technology it is sure to win plenty of admirers.