Back in November 2011, Mazda had high hopes for its new 2013 Mazda CX-5 crossover offering. Despite the fact that the CX-5 isn't a hybrid, the motivated automaker predicted to achieve fuel-economy ratings of 26-mpg city/33-mpg highway. Now, keep in mind that Mazda made this ambitious prediction before the EPA had a chance to officially weigh in. Fast forward a few months and Whitten Brothers Mazda has the actual, EPA-approved ratings. Guess what? They're even higher than expected!

That's right. Even the CX-5 creator itself couldn't foresee just how far its unbelievably efficient model would go on one gallon. But sure enough, the new Mazda compact SUV proved to have the little engine that could...could deliver 35-miles per gallon on highway that is. Offered in several powertrain combinations, the 2013 Mazda CX-5 achieves the following EPA mpg ratings:

-    FWD 2.0-liter with six-speed manual: 35 hwy/26 city/29 combined
-    FWD 2.0-liter with six-speed automatic: 32 hwy/26 city/29 combined
-    AWD 2.0-liter: 31hwy/25 city/28 combined

Some of you Mazda connoisseurs may have already guessed the key to the CX-5 crossover's mileage success. If you're answer is "SkyActiv," then you're right on target. By implementing an unusually high compression ratio, Mazda SkyActiv engineers are able to improve efficiency sans any accompanying knocking problems. In addition to the eco-friendly technology, lowered weight also plays a role in taking the Mazda CX-5 farther on a tank than before. Perhaps one of the lightest compact SUVs available in the market, the 2013 CX-5 packs on a significantly reduced 3,208 pounds.

Whitten Brothers Mazda already knows the 2013 Mazda CX-5 will hold appeal with consumers in the Richmond area looking for lower fuel consumption without having to switch to a hybrid powertrain. Company officials confirm that the model release date will fall sometime in the spring but exact pricing is yet to be unveiled. To find out more information as soon as it arrives, be sure to stay tuned to our Mazda blog. Of course, you can also curb your automotive hunger with the full serving of new Mazda models we have at our convenient 900 Johnston Willis Drive, Richmond, VA, 23236 location.