Frankfurt: 2008 Mazda6

Mazda has unveiled its totally redesign mid-size sedan, the 6. It is available in three bodystyles including a sedan, hatchback and a wagon, just like its predecessor. The 6 grows in every dimension: 65mm longer, 15mm wider, 5mm taller, and a 50mm longer wheelbase on the sedan and the hatchback.

The Mazda6 is penned upon the automaker's next-generation design philosophy, first used in the 2008 Mazda2. The next-generation Mazda3 is next in the line to receive it. The European Mazda6 is available in four different powertrain configurations: a new MZR 2.5L 170hp petrol, 1.8L petrol, 2.0L petrol and a MZR-CD 2.0L turbodiesel. The 2.5L is the only one we, North Americans, will see the daylight of. A 3.5L V6 will be available in the North American models. Personally, we like the sedan's styling the best, and the wagon can count for a design award as well. However, the hatchback does not incorporate a fluent rear hatch design, which creates a sense of awkwardness. The interior is similar to that of the Mazda CX-9.

The (European) Mazda6 is equipped with technological goodies such as xenon headlights, LED detailing and adaptive headlamps. Continue reading to view two hi-res image galleries and the official press release.

[Source: Mazda]

2008 Mazda6 Sedan

2008 Mazda6 Hatchback

PRESS RELEASE: 2008 MAZDA6

Zoom-Zoom evolution is the concept behind the all - new Mazda 6. Along with enhanced environmental and safety performance, the car has a more emphatic Mazda character in its design, dynamic performance, packaging and craftsmanship. Mazda adopted the following key values to embody the development concept:

Key Value One - Emotional and Sporty Design

An engaging styling and dynamic performance creates a sense of delight and kizuna - a Japanese word that implies strong emotional ties such as those found between people - when the owner looks at or drives the Mazda 6. Its captivating, sporty styling connects with the driver emotionally. It is also 65 mm longer, 15 mm wider, 5 mm taller, with a 50 mm longer wheelbase (sedan and hatchback) for more room on the inside and one of the widest boot openings in the segment, that makes the new Mazda 6 a delight to use on a daily basis.

Key Value Two - Exclusive Experience

Exquisite craftsmanship enhances the emotional connection between the customer and the car, adding to the delight of ownership. Exquisite and high quality craftsmanship makes drivers and passengers feel good. On the outside, body gaps are greatly reduced for a look of solid quality and on the inside higher quality materials are introduced for a greatly improved premium feel. And of course the Mazda 6 is supremely comfortable, with space and features for relaxed confidence.

Key Value Three - Insightful Package

The balance of good looks and versatile packaging brings delight to daily driving. Superb balance between engaging, sporty styling and a comfortable space. Simple, easy to use, well-thought out driver interfaces and storage space. This includes an evolution of Mazda’s Karakuri rear seat system for the hatchback and estate. Besides delivering one- touch seat-drop function from a latch in the boot panel, the system now includes an all-new boot tonneau cover for the estate that automatically moves up when the rear liftgate is opened.

Driving Dynamics

The development theme for the Mazda 6’s dynamics was “driving performance that creates oneness between the car and driver. ” This was realized by an emotionally appealing, sporty performance feel, plus handling and brake performance that respond accurately to the driver’s intentions. This was achieved by a series of new features including a new, six-point mounting system for the high- mount double wishbone front suspension , the use of electric power assisted steering for a more rigid steering feel with less transmission of disturbance from the road, lowering of the car’s coefficient of drag (Cd) to 0.27 (down from 0.30) for the sedan and hatchback, and to Cd 0.28 (down from 0.32) for the estate, and by reducing vehicle weight despite the new Mazda 6’s larger dimensions . The solid sense of security created by the confident, predictable handling is central to the Zoom-Zoom evolution concept embodied in new Mazda 6.

Enhanced Engine Line-Up

A new 2.5-litre petrol engine has been developed from the previous 2.3-litre unit. The MZR 2.5 has a bigger bore and a longer stroke, plus freer-flowing intake and exhaust ports which together improve low and mid-range torque by 10 percent. Power is 170 PS. Also available are the existing 1.8 and 2.0-litre petrol engines and the MZR-CD 2.0 turbo diesel, carried over from the previous Mazda 6.

Safety

Improving running, turning and stopping achieves stress- free driving performance that gives the driver predictable control of the vehicle, so every Mazda 6 driver will be in a safe frame of mind. Besides Mazda’s state-of-the-art active safety systems - including large disc brakes, ABS, dynamic stability control (DSC), electronic traction control (TCS) and brake assist (standard in Europe) - and a passive safety package with Mazda’s stiff and strong Triple-H body shell and six airbags (standard in Europe), there are further features to help the Mazda 6 avoid an accident or protect its occupants if an accident is unavoidable. These include Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS), parking sensor, an extensive field of vision, Mazda’s first active head restraints , crushable brake and clutch pedals and extensive pedestrian protection measures.

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