Report: Diesel Mazda coming to the U.S. by 2013

Squashing this past summer's rumors, Mazda spokesman Jeremy Barnes has confirmed that the U.S. will be getting its first diesel-fueled model, and even adds a rough release date.

Barnes says "It'll be here between 15 and 18 months behind the launch of the Skyactiv-G gasoline engine in the Mazda 3." Since the Skyactiv-G 3 hit showrooms in October, this puts the estimate in the early half of next year.

Although it has not been confirmed, it is likely that the CX-5 will be the first U.S. diesel model, as the model boasts a 2.2-liter diesel in Japan and Europe, already. The European version comes in two variants, both four-cylinders with a two-stage turbocharger, making either 150hp at 280.2 lb-ft that does 0-62mph in 10 seconds, or 175hp at 309.7 lb-ft that cuts the 0-62mph down to 9.2 seconds and tops out 3 mph faster, at 126mph. Either way, a 6-speed Skyactive-MT manual transmission comes standard, with an option for a 6-speed automatic.

By: Alexandra Koken

Source: CARandDRIVER