Mazda has announced both pricing and specification for the Saloon and Tourer versions of its mid-size model. Featuring an upgraded cabin, revised styling and enhanced technology, plus the UK debut of Mazda’s ‘cylinder deactivation’ SKYACTIV-G 2.5-litre petrol engine, the updated Mazda6 also sees the popular SKYACTIV-D 2.2-litre diesel engine benefit from a power upgrade to 181bhp.
Priced from £23,195 to £33,585, before FCD discounts are taken into account, the combined Saloon and Tourer line-up features 25 models across four trim levels (SE-L Nav+, SE-L LUX Nav+, Sport Nav+ and GT Sport Nav+). Matched exclusively to the new range-topping GT Sport Nav+ trim, Mazda’s 2.5-litre SKYACTIV-G engine makes its UK debut in the new Mazda6. With a ‘cylinder deactivation’ system, the direct-injection four-cylinder engine switches seamlessly between four and two-cylinder operation to improve real-world fuel economy at zero cost to performance. It is paired with Mazda’s SKYACTIV-DRIVE six-speed automatic gearbox, in both body styles.
The 2018 car, which is available now, adopts a fresh frontal design focused around a new grille, which has the mesh positioned deeper within the surround to create a more sophisticated and muscular face. The revised LED headlamps integrate signature wing tips from the grille surround to underscore a more predatory style, while the redesigned lower bumper features a sleeker profile and an aerodynamically efficient air intake. At the rear, the Saloon has a remodelled boot lid, while both the Saloon and Tourer feature cleaner rear bumper styling with more body coloured areas.
Topping off the styling updates are new alloy wheel designs and the introduction of Soul Red Crystal Metallic paint, which, thanks to Mazda’s unique three-layer TAKUMINURI painting technology, increases brightness by approximately 20% and depth by 50%, compared with the previous Soul Red Metallic finish.
New materials and technology combined with refinements to the cabin design deliver an understated sense of luxury within the cabin. With fine craftsmanship applied to every detail, highlights across the range include the introduction of a larger eight-inch central display screen and the adoption of a full colour, windscreen-projected Active Driving Display (head-up type).
The dashboard and door trim panels have been redesigned, seat comfort has been improved and the flagship GT Sport Nav+ features Mazda’s signature high-end interior finishes that include real Japanese Sen Wood trim, brown Nappa leather and suede, to deliver a cockpit that fuses modern technology with the beauty and simplicity of traditional Japanese craftsmanship.
In addition to the new 2.5-litre SKYACTIV-G engine, the 2.0-litre SKYACTIV-G has been enhanced with new intake ports, new pistons and revised fuel injection and cooling.
Designed to improve ride comfort at the same time as maintaining the Mazda6’s renowned driver engagement, the new Mazda6 benefits from suspension fine tuning and component upgrades. Bump stop characteristics have been revised, the front dampers have increased in diameter and rebound springs have been added, while a new urethane rear damper top mount has been fitted, all to create smoother vehicle behaviour and improved ride quality. In addition, the steering knuckles have been lowered for more neutral steering characteristics and, to ensure a more precise response to subtle steering wheel actions, rigid mounts now attach the steering gear to the suspension cross-member.
As you might expect for a car in this class, improved refinement has also been a focus with the addition of thicker floor and rear wheel housing noise insulation panels, plus body reinforcement in places where vibration can penetrate the cabin. New vibration absorbing material has also been added to the centre tunnel and the roof lining. A flatter underbody, plus new bumper and engine under-tray, streamline the airflow beneath the car, while ducts introduced in place of the fog lights in the front bumper create a flow of air to the front wheels to improve aerodynamic performance. SKYACTIV-G models are also fitted with an active air shutter that closes, when the engine does not need cooling to improve real-world efficiency.
With an increase in standard active safety equipment across the range, all models now feature a huge range of advanced i-ACTIVESENSE technology, including Blind Spot Monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, Mazda Radar Cruise Control, Lane-Keep Assist and Advanced Smart City Brake Support.
