What Is The Mazda SKYACTIV Manual Transmission?

mazda transmission

The Mazda SKYACTIV manual transmission (or SKYACTIV-MT) is a series of compact, light, and efficient traditional manual transmissions. Both large and medium sized transmissions were developed, with the goal to create transmissions with improved fuel economy and a better shift feel more like that of the Mazda MX-5. In order to save weight and reduce complexity, a common 2nd and 3rd gear are used, as is a common 1st and reverse. This design results in a wide-ratio gearbox that is up to 16% lighter than the transmission it replaces. The modifications to the SKYACTIV-MT transmissions also reduce internal friction losses. The end product is a transmission that increases fuel economy by around 1% while still being easy to shift and fun to drive.