2017 Mazda CX-9 gets new turbocharged SkyActiv engine

2017 Mazda CX-9 (Nadine Filion/Autofocus)

SkyActiv technology, sure, it might sound like fancy Mazda marketing speak. But really, it’s so much more than that. It’s an entire philosophy on engine technology that Mazda has used to produce real reductions in fuel consumption and improvements in performance. And now, finally, the all-new second-generation Mazda CX-9, which debuted at the Los Angeles Auto Show this week, is getting a dose for model year 2017.

The first-generation CX-9 that has been with us since 2007 was actually the last vehicle in Mazda's lineup to not wear the SkyActive badge.

For the new generation though, Mazda’s three-row SUV has gone on a serious diet shedding as much as 140kg in AWD variants and has also said goodbye to its old V6 engine. Instead, the new CX-9 will introduce Mazda’s Skyactiv-G 2.5T engine. This 2.5-litre four-cylinder turbocharged powerplant will make 250 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.

Getting rid of the V6 might seem like a risky move given that its competitors such as the Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, Nissan Murano, Toyota Highlander and Hyundai Sante Fe XL all offer six-cylinders. And at just 250 horsepower, the CX-9 also ranks among the least powerful SUVs in the segment.

However, where the CX-9 really sets itself apart is in the torque department. Its 310 lb-ft is significantly higher than any of its direct competitors which range 240-270 lb-ft. This bump means that even though the CX-9 has a little less power on paper than the others, it will actually deliver its drivers as good, or better, real-world power for acceleration. Oh, and the new turbo also reduces fuel consumption by about 20 percent compared to the old V6.

According to Mazda this is all achieved through what it calls Dynamic Pressure Turbo technology which varies the degree of exhaust pulsation depending on engine speed. Mazda also claims that this is a world first in automotive history. In more practical terms, this works at low RPMs by routing engine exhaust to the turbocharger turbine through smaller ports — sort of like how you can increase your garden hose’s pressure by putting your thumb over it. When the revolutions increase, more valves opens to allow a greater intake of fumes. The result according to Mazda is that, even at low speeds, you get instant boost from the turbocharger, and no ‘turbo lag’ on acceleration.

As for the cabin, while we weren’t able to actually climb inside, the new CX-9 sure looks to feature one of the most beautiful interiors in its class. There’s a nice mix of contrasting colours, quality materials and finishes that would not look at all out of place in a German sports car.

We’ll reserve judgments on things like access and leg room until we can actually get inside, but we expect plenty of room for the knees thanks to CX-9’s assembly platform (which is borrowed from the Mazda6) that stretches the wheelbase by 5.5cm compared to the old CX-9.

More information like towing capacity will come closer to when the new CX-9 arrives in dealerships which is expected to be some time in Spring 2016.