RSS
Send Feedback!
By 
Marty Padgett, Executive Editor
Mazda zoom-zoomed into
The original Mazda6 really kicked off the whole zoom-zoom theme, not just as an advertising slogan, but with a more sporty, stand-out look that has helped kick-start Mazda sales around the world (notably, its global profits have increased more than five-fold since the midsize model’s debut). The new car is an example of Mazda’s focus on “kizuna,” which translates into a “strong, emotional commitment.”
While we’ll have to wait awhile to see what that means on the road, the second-generation Mazda6 is visually striking and features an array of upscale features, such as xenon headlights in an adaptive lighting package and LED interior detail lighting, heated seats and an advanced infotainment system. New safety features will include active front headrests and an advanced pedestrian impact system.
There will likely be a few changes in the car the company brings State-side, especially when it comes to powertrain. For Europeans, Mazda will offer a 1.8 and 2.0-liter pair of gasoline engines, as well as a 2.0-liter turbodiesel. These will boost mileage over the old car by 6 to 12 percent. A newly upgraded 2.5-liter gas package will follow. For American motorists, look for a blend of four-cylinder and optional 3.5-liter V-6 packages, but no diesel.
While the sedan is certain for the
Related Articles
2007 Frankfurt Auto Show Coverage by TCC Team (9/10/2007)
2007 Ford Verve Concept by Paul A. Eisenstein (8/23/2007)
Ford’s Fiesta concept preps for
2008 Mazda3: What’s New by Marty Padgett (7/29/2007)
Mazda keeps its entry level covered.
2008 Mazda6: What’s New by Marty Padgett (7/29/2007)
Mazda drops the Mazdaspeed6 and Sport Wagon.
Comments (1 total):
Mr.
Lou | Posted: 10/6/2008
Having read more reviews all around the internet of the North American version of the 2009 Mazda 6, I have to say as an auto-enthusiast that I'm disappointed. I'm sure that the new 6 is a better car in every way by the numbers than the current model, and that Mazda will sell a lot of them, and they succeeded in what they set out to do, but to me, the current 6's appeal is that it's NOT the same size/category as the Accord/Camry/Fusion/Altima crowd. I wanted a car that was smallish, but had 4 doors, and FWD and nimble and sporty, not a family hauler. I think of the current 6 as a value-conscious alternative to a BMW 3-series, which I could afford, but prefer not to spend that kind of money on a car right now. I also think the current 6's styling is more distinctive and sporty. I have a 2006 Grand Sport sedan with the V6 and the 5-speed manual, but I cannot even get a manual with the V6 in the new model. Shame on Mazda. That's not zoom-zoom philosophy, that's Ford-think. If I'd wanted a vanilla V6 auto-trans family hauler that's a great value, I would have gotten a Fusion.
Post a comment: