Mazda bringing diesel and start/stop

More than just the Tribute hybrid

In 2009 Mazda will introduce a new clean diesel engine and a new and improved Smart Idle Stop System that is supposed to increase the fuel economy by 10 percent.

Unfortunately, the clean diesel is focused on Europe, so who cares here in America.

The new Mazda Smart Idle Stop System (SISS) is a whole different story. According to Edmunds this new Mazda system could improve fuel economy by 10 percent.

"SISS shuts down the vehicle's engine automatically when the car is stationary. Instead of restarting the engine normally, the SISS system's innovation is that it uses direct-injection technology¿injecting fuel directly into the cylinder while the engine is stopped and then igniting it to generate downward piston forced to restart after a shutdown. This, Mazda says, ensures a smooth experience for the occupants of the vehicle when driving resumes. Engine restarts happen in 0.35 second, Mazda says, thanks to the precise control the SISS system provides."