The newMazda6, now in its third generation, is currently on display at the Moscow Motor Show. The 2014 Mazda6 sedan draws inspiration from the Takeri concept car shown at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show and adopts the full range of SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY and the ‘KODO – Soul of Motion’ design philosophy.

New Mazda6 – Specifications and Features

Engine Capability

The Russian specification models include the SKYACTIV-G 2.0-litre engine that offers 110kW at 6000rpm and 210Nm of torque at 4000rpm. This engine is mated to a 6-speed SKYACTIV-Drive automatic transmission or a 6-speed SKYACTIV-Drive manual gearbox.

The SKYACTIV-G 2.5-litre petrol engine, used for the first time in the new Mazda6, offers 141kW at 5700rpm with a maximum torque figure of 256Nm available from 3250rpm. This engine is mated to the SKYACTIV-Drive 6-speed manual or automatic transmission.

The new Mazda6 is the first model to adopt the ‘i-ELOOP’ brake energy regeneration system which along with SKYACTIV technology drastically improves fuel efficiency in real world driving conditions. The ‘i-ELOOP’ is the first passenger car brake energy regeneration system in the world to utilise a capacitor. Mazda’s ‘i-stop’ idling stop system is also introduced to the Mazda6 with a class-leading restart time of 0.35 seconds.

Exterior Styling

The new Mazda6 stands low and wide to convey an “animalistic tenacity, dignity and a sporty flare through its smooth and powerful physique”. The front-end incorporates the ‘signature wing’ into the deeply sculpted face. Hood creases flow from the tips of the signature wing into the character lines to express the feeling of motion.

Signature LED headlights and halo light guides are used for the first time in a Mazda passenger car as well as the new body colour ‘Soul Red’. The new Mazda6 is fitted with 19-inch alloy wheels that further assert its presence.

Interior Styling

The interior is spacious and offers a comfortable environment where the driver can experience the ‘joy of driving’. The driver’s seat is adjustable and the adjustable tilt and telescopic steering wheel makes driving adjustments simple. A multi commander allows control of the audio, navigation and windshield wiper sensitivity. Trip management information is displayed on a 3.5-inch multi-information display while navigation information is displayed on a 5-inch screen.

Safety Features

Safety features for the new Mazda6 include High Beam Control (HBC), Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS), Hill Launch Assist (HLA), Emergency Stop Signal (ESS), Rear Vehicle Monitoring (RVM), Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS) and Smart City Brake Support (SCBS).

The new Mazda6 is expected in South Africa in the first quarter of 2013. South African specifications and prices will be announced closer to launch.