Mazda6 Diesel Delay Due to Underwhelming Performance
Mazda has solved the problems with its new Mazda6 diesel meeting emissions standards but the family sedan is still not ready for prime time.
According to Mazda CEO Jim O’Sullivan, the original emissions issues have been sorted out but he has delayed the vehicle’s launch because it does not live up to Mazda’s performance standards.
SEE ALSO: Mazda6 Diesel Prototype Drive
O’Sullivan also says that the Japanese automaker wanted to ensure that the diesel powerplant wouldn’t “damage the clean-diesel reputation for the North American market.” Expected to make its debut last fall, the Mazda6 diesel was first held back to meet emissions targets, but now the company is working on meeting performance goals to ensure the Mazda6 diesel lives up to the automaker’s “zoom-zoom” mantra.
SEE ALSO: 2014 Mazda6 Review – Video
Currently, timing for the launch of the Mazda6 diesel is unknown while the automaker continues to massage the 2.2-liter diesel powerplant to meet the performance aspects of the brand. Rumor has it that the powerplant will make 173 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. Currently, O’Sullivan said that the Mazda can meet EPA and California requirements without a urea exhaust after-treatment, though it could switch tactics and incorporate an after-treatment system into its application.
GALLERY: 2014 Mazda6
[Source: WardsAuto]
Discuss this story at our Mazda6 forum.
Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
More by Jason Siu
Comments
Join the conversation
Yeah yeah....about the Mazdaspeed6....lol