Japanese automaker Mazda Motor is planning to sell only diesel-powered models of the new CX-3 compact crossover in Japan.
Reuters cited Mazda CEO Masamichi Kogai as saying that improved power offered by diesel engines are selling point of the cars including SUVs.
Kogai added: "In Japan, more and more people are choosing to drive diesels."
Kogai also highlighted that SUV segment in global auto market is expected to double in number by 2020.
However, on the contrary, diesel powered cars only accounted three percent of the total number of cars sold in Japan, due to the image problem it suffered after a former Tokyo governor announced the health hazards caused by the emission.
In order to improve the image of diesel-powered cars, the automaker has also developed a new technology, which is expected to reduce the "knocking" sound made by diesel-powered cars by installing a hollow, cylindrical pin in the piston.
The technology is expected to come as an option for customers opting for higher-end versions of the CX-3.
According to reports, Mazda also aims to sell 1.4 million cars in the financial year ending March out of which 225,000 units are targeted towards its home market.
