I quite like them to drive but anyone who has used one in the real world knows that their advantages in terms of fuel consumption (which is closesly related to emissions) are simply not there.

They were all about getting better figures on tests with little real world economy benefit.

Mazda went their own way - improving efficiency (Read increased power &/or improved mpg) of their rage of exisiting petrol engines, gearboxes, etc

SKYACTIV is a brand name for a series of technologies developed by Mazda which increase fuel efficiency and engine output. The initial announcement of theSKYACTIV technologies include new engines, transmissions, body, and chassis, which appeared in Mazda products from 2011.

One of hire cars Ive had in the last year was a Mazda 3 with skyactive sticker. No idea which engine. It was slow, not very tractable and thirsty.

Another was a Renault clio estate, again no idea of engine, but didnt sound like a 3 potter. Drank fuel like an alcoholic, and no vroom at all. Felt like the French were still stuck in a 90s timewarp.

In comparison my sons lowly Fabia mk2 1.2tsi with only 85bhp is a sports car with remarkable economy.

I think the article is just typical auto journalistic speculation. New engine design will adapt to legalisative change but will always seek to lower cost of production and marketability, there will be always be a drive to reduce vehicle weight. Overheating, turbo or otherwise is simply a design challenge that will be solved in short order, when the marketing department deem its worth the expense.

I think hybrid is the way things will start to go.

Edited by brum on 15/10/2016 at 17:52

Skoda have already introduced the 1.0 litre engine to the Octavia

Replace Skoda with VAG. The 1.0 turbo petrol is available in models form all the manufacturers marques including the new Seat Ateca. All the reports I have read say its exceptionally good but they said that about the 90 PS 1.2 TSi as well. After owning the 1.4 TSi for ove 3 years and is an incredible engine we found the 1.2 TSi fine in town but totally gutless on the open road in a Polo so I hope the 1.0 is better.