Can Mazda topple Toyota? New CX-5 2023 to get six-cylinder mild hybrid to finally put the hurt on the RAV4 - report
The next CX-5 will balance frugality and fun. (image credit: Best Car Web)
The next Mazda CX-5 will adopt a six-cylinder SKYACTIV-X engine as it attempts to reclaim mid-size SUV share against the sales-powerhouse that is the Toyota RAV4, according to new reports out of Japan.
The RAV4 has been a runaway sales success in Australia, landing as the country's best-selling vehicle last month, and arguably cementing hybrid technology as the powertrain of choice for Aussie families.
But Mazda is planning a fightback, with reports out of Japan suggesting the next CX-5 will be equipped with a straight-six SkyActiv-X engine - a compression-ignition petrol engine which provides the low-end torque of a diesel with the power delivery of a petrol, reducing fuel consumption and emissions by between 10 to 30 per cent. The engine will include a 48-volt mild hybrid system, further helping fuel use.
Read More: New Mazda CX-5 2021 detailed! Improved safety and technology for Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Tucson rival
According to the reports, the new engine will produce 220kW and around 345Nm, all while sipping just 6.6L/100km. That's not as fuel efficient as a RAV4, sure, but it's also more powerful.
The bad news the new CX-5 won't appear until 2023, giving Toyota at least another two years to make its mark on the sales charts.
Now, a caveat. Mazda in Australia is yet to confirm these reports, or timing and specification details for the new vehicle. But the details of the six-cylinder engine and its application to Mazda's larger cars comes from a company presentation.
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