Many figured diesel engines would be gone for good in the aftermath of Dieselgate, at least for conventional cars and crossovers. Figure again. Mazda has unveiled its 2019 CX-5 Signature Diesel AWD, powered by a sequential twin turbocharger with an estimated 168 hp at 4,000 rpm and 290 lb-ft of torque at 2,000 rpm. This setup works by having a smaller turbocharger first at low rpm for quick throttle response. A valve then opens to activate the larger turbocharger at higher rpm.
Mazda says this provides "smooth and linear response from low to high engine speeds, and greatly increase low- and high-end torque." The engine has a rev limit of 5,500 rpm. The EPA has given the diesel CX-5 an estimated 27/30/28 mpg city/highway/combined rating.
For now, only all-wheel-drive is available for this Signature trim, which helps to partially explain the not so wonderful fuel economy figures. To compare, the non-turbo gasoline-engined CX-5 AWD produces 187 hp and 186 lb-ft and achieves 24/30/26 mpg. The more powerful CX-5 Turbo has 250 hp and 310 lb-ft and returns 22/27/24 mpg.
So on the one hand, we're finally getting that SkyActiv-D diesel we've long wanted in the US, but its fuel economy figures are honestly not that amazing. But still, we're hoping the CX-5 Signature will offer that quick torque punch when one's foot hits the accelerator.
Mazda says it is now taking pre-orders for the 2019 CX-5 Signature Diesel AWD. The MSRP is $42,045, including the $1,045 destination fee. Wait. Did you just read a hair over $42 grand? For a CX-5 oil burner? That's right. A CX-5 Signature AWD with the turbo four gas engine starts at $38,235, a price difference of $3,810. Do the diesel's only slightly better fuel economy numbers justify that price increase? Time will tell.
But for those who are set on buying the diesel, you'll have a choice of only four exterior colors: Jet Black, Machine Gray Metallic, Soul Red Chrystal, or the pricier Snowflake White Pearl.