Mazda6 – National Press Launch

In 2012 Mazda quietly surprised the SUV market with the release of their very accomplished CX-5 and in 2013 it looks like they’re about to surprise even more people with the launch of their new flagship saloon – the Mazda6. It enters into quite a busy segment with a lot of competition but already the 6 sits above many of its competitors on looks alone. The styling of both the saloon and tourer models embody Mazda’s latest design language which draws heavily from “KODO – Soul of Motion”, in other words encompassing fluidity and taut surfaces blended with some very attractive flowing lines.

Two engines will be offered in the Mazda6, a petrol 2.0 litre (143 bhp) and a 2.2 litre diesel, the latter of which is expected to account for the majority of sales and itself will come with two power output options (148 bhp & 172 bhp). Working alongside these engines is Mazda’s SkyActiv Technology which uses a combination of different systems to help reduce emissions that would be more in keeping with a small city car whilst sacrificing virtually no performance – in fact the 2.2 litre diesel has a rather healthy 380 Nm on tap.

The interior loses none of that premium feel that the exterior portrays. A very driver orientated cockpit design demonstrates some excellent well & thought out ergonomics while utilising some nice materials which combined make for a design that is more in keeping with the big German brands.

The Mazda6 is now on sale nationwide with prices starting at €28,745 for the 2.0 litre petrol saloon while the diesel engine starts at €31,795.