Mazda Motor Corporation recently released their vision for the company’s future – and it’s green. Their new campaign, “Sustainable Zoom-Zoom 2030,” sets long-term goals for their technology development. The hallmark of their vision is a next-gen engine called the SKYACTIV-X, set for release in 2019. If plans go according to schedule, Mazda says, “The SKYACTIV-X engine will be the world’s first commercial gasoline engine to use compression ignition.”

Mazda’s compression-ignition engine uses a piston to compress the engine’s fuel-air mixture. The engine is essentially a gasoline-diesel hybrid. Engineers had been working on the technology for some time but had issues getting sufficient compression, as well as trouble with the delay between compression and spark. They finally figured it out and named the method Spark Controlled Compression Ignition.

According to Mazda, the new engine will increase torque by 10-30 percent and improve fuel economy. The engine could give the popular, three-row crossover, the Mazda CX-9, a dramatic boost.

The Mazda CX-9 was released in 2006 as a midsize three-row crossover in a market of large three-row SUVs. The model was a refreshing option for larger families who didn’t want to drive a tank around town. The 2017 Mazda CX-9 is still fresh and dynamic. It’s agile, responsive and stable with a solid powertrain that is powered by the predecessor to the SKYACTIVX, the 2.5-Litre SKYACTIV Turbo. This engine gives the 2017 Mazda CX-9 the best torque of the segment and a best-in-class combined fuel economy of 9.5 L/100km.

The entry-level 2017 CX-9 GS trim level starts at $35,600 and comes with standard equipment like push-button start, LED headlights that auto-level, three-row auto climate control and an electronic parking brake. All-wheel drive (AWD) can be added for $2500.

The mid-level GS-L starts at $41,500 and includes Smart City Brake Support, leather seats, a power glass moonroof, advanced blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert, a heated steering wheel and a power liftgate.

The high-end GT starts at $45,500 and comes with standard features like 20-inch alloy wheels, navigation, Bose audio with 12 speakers and a windshield-projected Active Driving Digital Display.

The deluxe CX-9 Signature, starting at $50,100, is packed with many luxury details. Nappa leather upholstery and stitching, LED ambient lighting in the cabin, real rosewood centre console panel and door pull panel trim and signature CX-9 grille illumination add to the luxurious feel.

A unique feature of the CX-9 is that it comes standard with Mazda’s Unlimited Mileage Warranty for all parts found to be factory defective for 3 years, regardless of the number of kilometres the owner has driven. Additional Mazda warranties are designed to cover the CX-9’s powertrain components for a period of 5 years with unlimited mileage, body sheet metal perforation for 7 years and unlimited mileage and roadside assistance for 3 years regardless of mileage. 

We’ve got a great selection of mid-size 2017 Mazda CX-9s for you to see. Come take a test drive of the most fuel-efficient and future-oriented three-row crossover on the market.