irishcar.com

12 February 2002: Mazda will reveal its full new model range of the Mazda6 at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show.

In addition to the saloon and hatchback, which were revealed recently at the Detroit Auto Show, Geneva will also feature the world premiere of the five-door Sport Wagon version.

The Mazda6 is a completely new car with an extensive range of new engines, transmissions and drive systems.

The new four-cylinder DOHC 16-valve petrol engine is available in three displacements: 1.8-litre (88 kW), 2.0-litre (104 kW) and an advanced 2.3-litre (122 kW) with Mazda’s Sequential Valve Timing.

In order to specifically meet European demands, Mazda has also developed an all-new direct-injection 2.0-litre diesel engine with a next-generation common rail system. This will be available in two variants – 88 kW and 100 kW.

Transmissions will be offered in four-speed automatic, five-speed manual and a five-speed ‘Activematic’ form, which supplements automatic operation with a pseudo-manual mode. This Activematic transmission is used in conjunction with an electronically controlled four-wheel drive system which will eventually be available on a special version of the Sport Wagon.

An all-new multi-link rear suspension has also been developed to be used in conjunction with double-wishbone front suspension for optimum handling and ride characteristics.

The four-door saloon and five-door hatchback versions of the Mazda6 go on sale across European markets in petrol engine form during late spring and early summer. The Sport Wagon versions and the diesel engine derivatives will follow later in the year to build Mazda6 into a comprehensive range which will meet the demands of a wide market segment. Prices will be announced closer to the sales launch.

Benchmark competitive vehicles in the development of the Mazda6 included the BMW 3-series, the
VW Passat, the Honda Accord and the Toyota Camry.

The Mazda6 has been engineered to meet or exceed crash safety standards in all major world markets. In addition to Mazda’s highly-acclaimed Triple-H structure, the comprehensive passive and active safety technology includes new dual-stage airbags as part of a system of up to six airbags for the Mazda6, plus a new Crashable Pedal design.