Update: Mazda spokesperson Drew Cary responded to our query: "This is correct. Skyactiv-X will be available in late 2019 in select markets as part of a phased rollout. Timing of US availability has not yet been announced."

American buyers holding off on purchasing a 2019 Mazda3 until the Skyactiv-X engine arrives might need to be very patient. Mazda North American Operations CEO Masahiro Moro says the powerplant isn't in the immediate plan for the U.S, according to Automotive News.

"Skyactiv-X is on our road map going forward," Moro said at the SAE International WCX conference, according to Automotive News. "We have a lot of technology. And we are introducing each technology in each region when the time is right."

The Skyactiv-X engine can run on standard spark ignition or on what Mazda calls Spark Controlled Compression Ignition that blends the combustion methods of existing gasoline and diesel engines. As the piston reaches top dead center during the compression stroke, the fuel injector adds a little more fuel to the combustion chamber, and the spark plug ignites the entire mixture. Mazda claims this technology can increase fuel efficiency by 20 to 30 percent and increase torque by 10 to 20 percent in comparison to a traditional engine design.

The 2.0-liter Skyactiv-X engine is already available in some markets around the world. In Slovakia, it produces 178 horsepower (133 kilowatts) and 164 pound-feet (222 Newton-meters) of torque.

In the United States, the 2019 Mazda Mazda3 is only available with a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 186 horsepower (139 kilowatts) and 186 pound-feet (252 Newton-meters) of torque. A six-speed automatic the sole gearbox choice. Buyers can select between front- or all-wheel drive layouts. There's also a choice of a four-door sedan or five-speed hatchback body style.

Motor1.com has reached out to Mazda USA for clarification about its plans for the Skyactiv-X engine in the United States. We'll update this story when we hear back.

Source: Automotive News