| All-New Model Preview | Frankfurt Motor Show | Mazda6 |
Here's the face of the new Mazda 6. Mazda's
Ford Mondeo and Vauxhall Vectra rival will be revealed completely at September's
Frankfurt Motor Show, but in the meantime the Japanese company couldn't resist showing us this teaser shot.
What is clear is that the 6 adopts the new face of the company, the pronounced bonnet leading into the edgy grille, while prominent headlamps share their style with Mazda's other latest models. Sitting on a platform derived from Ford's Mondeo, it features a slightly wider track and lengthened wheelbase from the
outgoing 6 - meaning it should build on that car's impressive dynamics.
Mazda has made no mention of the engines that'll power it, though expect the range to follow the existing line up of 1.8, 2.0 and 2.3 petrol units. A 2.5-litre unit is also rumoured to be under consideration. European customers will get a 2.0-litre turbodiesel and it's possible that a hybrid version will be introduced to American customers. Mazda's parent company, Ford, has a hybrid system in the
US Fusion model that could be adapted for the 6. Like the outgoing car the new 6 will be offered in both front and four-wheel drive, the latter likely to be fitted to the high performance, turbocharged MPS models.
All the engines will reportedly offer improved performance while also reducing environmental impact through improved economy and reduced emissions. Larger inside and out to the benefit of both safety and interior space, Mazda hopes the 6 will continue the success of the outgoing model - it something of a turning point for Mazda's mainstream achievements. Expected to be on sale in Europe from early 2008, prices have yet to be announced. However, expect an entry-level 6 to start at around £15,000 and for Mazda to announce an estate shortly after the saloon's launch.
Kyle Fortune - 8 Aug 2007