Slightly less disguise
We first showed photos of a test-mule for the new Mazda 6 in the summer of last year and now these latest shots, snapped in the United States show the prototype with slightly less disguise. Based on a modified CD3 platform, known as CD3-2, the 2008 Mazda 6 will be sharing the platform with the still-new Ford Mondeo. Down the line, the CD3-2 is also expected to be the platform for various other future models including the Jaguar X-Type replacement and new Volvo S60.
Even though the car is still heavily disguised it is clear the new Mazda 6 will become 30 mm longer and a bit wider, too. On top, we can see glimpses of the new front fascia, including honeycomb inserts in the air intakes and large projector-type headlamp clusters.
The 2008 Mazda 6 will be powered by Ford’s new 250-horsepower 3.5-liter “Cyclone” engine. Other engine offerings may include a 2.5-liter inline-4 powerplant, and all-wheel-drive will be optional on all Mazda 6 versions.
Like all others, a hybrid model will become available using the same 2.5-liter hybrid engine as the American 2008 Ford Fusion. All three body styles which include a sedan, hatchback and wagon will be offered as well as the sporty Mazdaspeed version for the 2009 model year.
North American models will be produced in Flat Rock, Michigan starting in June 2008. Japanese/Asian production is expected to start in late 2007.
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