Designed with a focus on improving the emotional connection between the car and the driver, the new Mazda6 is more upscale and more refined. Bearing a resemblance to the RX-8, the car has aggressive front fender bulges and the overall appearance is sportier and more aggressive.

Offered in hatchback, sedan and wagon versions, the Mazda6’s five-door version most represents the sporty nature with a coupe-like silhouette. The sedan has a high tail to give a fastback look similar to the 5-door. Although the new Mazda6 is slightly larger than its predecessor, the weight actually has been reduced by up to 35 kilograms (approx. 77 lbs.) depending on the trim and equipment level.

The uniquely shaped headlights follow the shape of the grille and flow back into the sharp edge of the fender bulges that tie in to the front fascia. The lower grille opening is wider and more aggressive with more detail. Coefficient of drag has been lowered to 0.27 from 0.30 on the previous model.

The sporty theme continues inside the Mazda6 with a snug, cockpit feel to the driving position complemented by clear instruments and intuitive controls. Curved surfaces are used to create a high qualify feel with textured paint, upscale materials and less glossy surfaces.

To better connect the driver and the car, steering, handling and driving dynamics were designed to respond accurately to the driver. Suspension modifications were made to improve ride comfort, reduce road noise and improve handling. Electric power steering replaces the hydraulic system for more comfort during low speeds and more stability at high speeds. Brakes are larger for improved stopping power.

A new 2.5-liter gasoline engine is developed from the previous 2.3-liter version for improved torque and delivers 170 horsepower. Other engine choices are 1.8-liter and 2.0-liter gasoline engines and the MZR-CD 2.0-liter turbodiesel.

Features and Equipment

For easier control of accessories such as navigation, audio system and air conditioning, Mazda’s new CF-Net features switches on the steering wheel and information is displayed on a screen at the top of the center stack.

Equipment includes dual-zone climate control, optional advanced keyless entry system, optional Bose premium sound system and a Bluetooth hands-free mobile phone interface.

Safety equipment includes ABS, DSC, electronic traction control, brake assist, adaptive front lighting system, parking sensor, high-rigidity Mazda Advanced Impact energy Distribution and Adsorption System body, Mazda’s first active headrest and crushable brake and clutch pedals.

The new Mazda6 is scheduled to go on sale in Europe in November 2007. A new Mazda6 will be designed and engineered exclusively for the U.S. market with more details to follow in 2008.