> They have a new 'X-Active' gasoline engine that also runs like a diesel at times to gain efficiency and power

And in terms of performance and economy matches a "classical" solution nowadays (direct injection + turbo): https://goo.gl/YWZs6v, https://goo.gl/zckvun

> Somehow this small car company always punches above its weight, which is impressive.

Mazdas look a little bit differently but in terms of technology there is nothing impressive about them.