CX-5

Make
Mazda
Segment
SUV

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.