The first vehicle to make use of the brand’s new SkyActiv fuel saving technologies, the 3 will be powered by a direct-injection 2.0-liter 4-cylinder, mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Engine power numbers have yet to be released.
“SKYACTIV is not just an engine; it is the next generation of advanced
vehicle performance and efficiency,” said Jim O’Sullivan, President and
CEO, Mazda North American Operations. “SKYACTIV embodies Mazda’s
philosophy of engineering only vehicles that are fun to drive, satisfying
to own and environmentally responsible; and there is no better vehicle to start with than the Mazda3, one of the most exciting sport compact cars on
the road.”