First look: Classy new Mazda6 surfaces

THE first official image was released a month ago and now the redesigned Mazda6 has been revealed in all its glory via 'wallpaper' images of the entire range, which have swept across the internet this week following the second pre-embargo leak by Spanish website www.km77.com in three days.

Just as it did with Ford's new compact Kuga SUV, the website has uncovered Mazda's hotly-awaited mid-size sedan, hatch and wagon replacements ahead of their world debut at the Frankfurt motor show next week - and their Australian release around May 2008.



Mazda has already announced the all-new Six line-up, which will follow the brilliant new Mazda2 that goes on sale this month, will bring responsive handling and performance, distinctive design and exceptional functionality, plus improved quality, safety and environmental performance.

But as is clear from the images - which confirm the new model will indeed inherit the RX-8's rippling wheelarch biceps and a classier, more subtle iteration of its and the new Two's bold Mazda face - next year's Mazda6 will also bring a bunch of new technology.

The Mazda6, which goes by the Atenza name in Japan, will in some markets be available with features like Xenon headlights, LED lighting, active cruise control, push-button engine starting, dual-zone climate control, heated seats, parking sensors a Bose in-dash six-CD sound system and voice-recognition.

In line with the new Mazda2's philosophy, the next Six is also expected to be slightly lighter than both the model it replaces and the upcoming Mondeo, with which it will share its engines, at least in Europe.

Despite that, it is also reported to offer more interior space than before.

Presumably, the sleek new Mazda6's ride/handling package will also be even more accomplished, making it a most formidable new entrant in the white-hot mid-sized segment alongside the likes of Dodge's Avenger, the Chrysler Sebring, Honda Accord, Subaru Liberty and Toyota's top-selling Camry.

The surprise appearance of the new Mazda6 comes just days ahead of its official global unveiling at Germany's bi-annual automotive extravaganza on September 11.

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