Mazda Adding CNG and Hybrid Versions of the 3

MazdaMazdaJapan, 1920 > present80 models
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has announced two new powertrains for the Mazda 3Mazda Mazda 3 Gen.3Japan, 2013 > present56 versions
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at the Tokyo Motor Show. The Mazda 3 Hybrid will go on sale in Japan in very early 2014, and the compressed natural gas-fueled Mazda 3 is a concept for now but is intended for production. 

Both powertrains are based the Skyactiv-G 2.0 petrol engine. In the case of the hybrid, the engine and electric motor power the front wheels, and the nickel hydride battery system is mounted in the rear. The system has a total power output of 134hp and 153lb-ft (207Nm). This is less power but more torque than the standard 2.0-liter engine in the 3 produces. However, it is rated at 72.45mpg US (3.2l/100km) fuel economy. The hybrid system only has a small effect of overall weight at 3,064lb (1,390kg), compared to 2,855lb (1,295kg) for a 3 hatchback with the 2.0 engine and automatic transmission.

The hybrid is launching in Japan first, and Mazda plans to sell it on other markets, but Mazda has not announced any dates.

The Skyactiv-CNG Concept adds a 75-liter CNG tank to the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and still has a 51-liter petrol tank. It is promising that the system will reduce CO2 emissions by 20%. Mazda is not talking about performance for the engine yet other than saying that "it delivers the same exhilarating driving pleasure as other Mazda vehicles." It did not say when it would go on sale or what type of fuel economy it would have.