With the Japan market launch of the all-new 2019 Mazda3, we finally now have a solid idea of how much more expensive the revolutionary Skyactiv-X engine is.

Available as the Mazda3’s top-of-the-line engine, the revolutionary SPCCI or Spark plug Controlled Compression Ignition engine will be released there by October. Surprisingly, Mazda’s banking heavily on the Skyactiv-X because compared to other engine/transmission combinations, it’s the most versatile. Not only can be paired to either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic, but it’s also available in both front- and all-wheel drive configurations.

Going through the variant list, similar-speced 5-door models Mazda3 20S Burgundy Selection costs 2,719,200 yen (~ P 1,297,000), while the Mazda3 X Burgundy Selection costs 3,389,200 yen (~ P 1,616,600). For those keeping track, that’s a 670,000 yen (~ P 319,580) premium. The 4-door variants, as expected, are about 70,000 yen (~ P 33,389) more affordable.

Mazda has yet to release WLTC fuel economy figures for its Skyactiv-X, but the revamped 2.0-liter Skyactiv-G engine already manages an impressive 12.1 km/L city, 15.8 km/L suburban, 17.7 km/L highway for the hatchback, while the sedan does 12.0 km/L city, 16.0 km/L suburban, 18.2 km/L highway. The base 1.5-liter Skyactiv-G engine meanwhile does 13.7 km/L city, 16.5 km/L suburban, and 18.4 km/L highway.

Mazda Philippines has previewed the 2019 Mazda3 for the Philippine market last March. Pricing and availability will be announced at a later date.