2019 Mazda CX-5 Gets a Diesel Engine… For Real

Forget about the long-promised diesel version of the Mazda6 sedan. On Wednesday at the New York Auto Show, the 2019 Mazda CX-5 Signature Diesel was announced as the brand’s first diesel-powered vehicle in North America. Some will say it took more than a while, but I guess it’s better late than never.

There is one important detail, however: As the name above suggests, the 2.2-litre SKYACTIV-D engine will be available exclusively with the most expensive CX-5 model, which already starts at $40,950 in Canada before freight and delivery charges. How much more are you willing to pay?

• Also: The Car Guide’s 2019 Best Buys: Mazda CX-5
• Also: 2019 Mazda CX-5 Signature: The SUV that Drives like a Sports Sedan

Mazda says its diesel engine produces 168 horsepower and 290 pound-feet of torque—a pretty amazing number for a compact SUV—while burning 8.5 L/100 km in combined city-highway driving, or just over 1.0 L/100 km less than the gasoline equivalent. A sequential twin turbocharger greatly increases low- and high-end torque.

And like regular Signature models, the 2019 Mazda CX-5 Signature Diesel will come standard with all-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission.

By the way, Mazda worked closely with all proper federal and state agencies in the U.S. to ensure that the SKYACTIV-D engine passes all appropriate regulations. Special combustion control software and exhaust treatment helps in that regard.

With this new model, Mazda addresses customer demand in North America by providing another option that in no way compromises the CX-5’s sporty DNA. The lineup also includes a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre gasoline engine with cylinder deactivation and a turbocharged 2.5-litre unit.

The 2019 Mazda CX-5 Signature Diesel will be on sale at dealers in Canada beginning in the second half of 2019. Pricing will be released closer to sales start.