Mazda is purportedly in the process of resurrecting its Mazda6 model, according to well-placed sources. Development has been going on behind the scenes, targeting the North American market as a core focus for its reintroduction. The rumored return will not materialize until 2025 at the earliest, aligning with Mazda’s broader strategic plan to strengthen its premium product line in large vehicles.
The strategy has so far seen a fair amount of success. Globally, Mazda has introduced numerous SUVs including the CX-60 and CX-80 in Japan and Europe and plans to roll out the CX-70 in North America, alongside its three-row counterpart CX-90. Notably, the CX-60 has performed well in the Japanese market, outselling the more budget-friendly CX-5, indicating a favorable reception for Mazda’s push into larger, premium vehicles. Development costs have been kept low due to model-based approaches and economies of scale that emphasize efficiency improvements.
When it comes to the specifics of the next-generation Mazda6, it will share its platform with the latest crop of SUVs and, as such, it’s likely that the vehicle will borrow internals from the CX-90. Available power units may include a 2.5L inline-4 gasoline engine and its plug-in hybrid version, and a turbocharged 3.3L inline-6 with mild hybrid technology. Both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive (AWD) systems are expected to be on offer.
2018 Mazda6 | Photo: Mazda
Design-wise, according to bestcarweb, the new Mazda6 will be the apotheosis of Mazda’s Kodo design language, featuring a uniquely elegant four-door coupe design. This positions the vehicle to fill a niche for those who desire a racy-looking sedan, bolstered by an ultra-efficient PHEV powertrain and high-performance straight-six powerplant and front-engine-rear-drive characteristics.
The adoption of larger, longitudinally mounted engine models for North America seems to be paving the way for the next Mazda6. Our concern is that midsize sedans are all but dead with a number expected to be discontinued over the next year or two, however those that remain have retained a loyal following. Having said that, the sedan could also possibly feature a full EV version in the future, although this remains speculative at this point.
