Mazda has officially revealed its new “6” at the Moscow Motor Show. The stylish newcomer will also appear at the upcoming Paris Motor Show before making its debut in South Africa during the first six months of 2013.
It became obvious during a recent round of teaser videos that the new model would feature styling that borrows heavily from the very pretty 2011 Takeri show car. The result is a car that cuts quite a distinctive (and sporty) dash in the medium executive segment.
The interior follows a similarly simplistic design theme as seen on the recent CX-5 crossover. Extravagant design details are avoided, but the focus has been on comfort and quality. You will, however, notice some interior trim in the same colour as the exterior. There is also a new control system for the car’s infotainment system – think BMW iDrive.
The new Mazda6’s front wheels have been moved forwards by 100 mm in relation to the A-pillar, resulting a shorter front overhang. The rear deck is also shorter. The cabin offers improvements in space utilisation – front shoulder room has been improved by 20 mm and rear kneeroom by 43 mm.
Thus far the only engines announced for international markets are the marque’s SkyActiv powerplants – a 2,0-litre SkyActiv G (petrol) that delivers 110 kW/210 N.m and a 2,5-litre unit that makes 141 kW/256 N.m. Two transmissions have been announced – a six-speed SkyActiv-Drive automatic and a six-speed SkyActiv MT manual ‘box. The 2,5-litre will seemingly only be offered with an automatic transmission. A turbodiesel derivative will join the line-up later. The new engines feature a full suite of SkyActiv efficiency-boosting technologies, including the new i-Eloop system (regenerative braking).
The Mazda6 will be offered with a wide range of safety features, including High-Beam Control, Adaptive Front-lighting, Hill Launch Assist, Emergench Stop Signal, Rear Vehicle Monitoring, Lane Departure Warning and Smart City Brake Support (low-speed active collision avoidance).