The 2021 model year versions of the Mazda CX-30 and Mazda3 see the debut of the updated version of Mazda's unique Skyactiv-X SPCCI Spark Controlled Compression Ignition petrol engine. Renamed e-Skyactiv X, the updated version delivers increased performance and even more efficiency.

The latest 2.0-litre e-Skyactiv X engine produces 183bhp and 240Nm of torque, an increase of 6bhp and 16Nm respectively. The torque improvement is most noticeable from 2000rpm onwards, and particularly under acceleration from partial-load driving situations most commonly found during daily driving.

Also, fuel efficiency has also been improved, with CO₂ emissions dropping by 5g/km to 11g/km - depending on model, transmission and trim level. 

The updates to Mazda's 2.0-litre Spark Controlled Compression Ignition engine have been achieved through adjusting the compression ratio from 16.3:1 to 15.0:1, while other modifications include the optimisation of combustion control, modified pistons and updating the Mazda M Hybrid mild-hybrid system's software.

This results in a broader operating band of combustion efficiency, which ensures e-Skyactiv X not only delivers higher maximum engine torque but also improved real-world fuel economy. The intake valve timing has been adapted through modifying the intake camshaft, this leads to a reduction in pumping losses and further increases the engine's specific heat ratio, resulting in improvements to the e-Skyactiv X's fuel consumption.

Additionally to the updates to the combustion engine, the Mazda M Hybrid mild-hybrid system has had a software update that enables faster reactions of the system's belt-driven Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) torque control. This improvement on control smooths drivability by increasing or reducing torque control when needed.

For example, when the e-Skyactiv X's air supply unit turns on - to provide sufficient air needed for a lean combustion fuel-air mixture - or off again, the units inertia creates torque fluctuations. The Mazda M Hybrid's enhanced software enables torque reactions issued through the belt-driven ISG that are quick enough to flatten the torque curve. As a result, the engine feels even smoother during linear acceleration.