GG/GV Mazda6 Series II

MAZDA introduced its Series II Mazda6 range in August ’05, boasting 750 engineering changes for improved performance, fuel economy, emissions, refinement and safety.

The 122kW/207Nm 2.3-litre MZR DOHC 16V four-cylinder engine was upgraded to Euro IV emissions compliance, and gained a six-speed manual and five-speed automatic gearbox.

Visually a redesigned grille, headlights, tail-lights and bumpers are the biggest giveaways, along with new cabin trim, alloy wheels and colours.

Improved sound insulation and body reinforcements quietened the car and increased safety, the steering gained telescopic as well as height adjustment, and more standard features were incorporated.

Meanwhile a range-topping Mazda6 MPS sedan debuted in October ’05.

A direct rival for Subaru's popular Liberty GT, the MPS introduced Mazda's petrol-injection technology, delivering 190kW at 5500rpm of power and 380Nm of torque from 3000rpm.

Performance comes courtesy of a direct-injection, spark ignition (DISI) 2.3-litre 16-valve DOHC turbo four, which features a top-mounted intercooler and single-scroll turbo.

Along with an Active Torque Split AWD system to match the Subaru’s "symmetrical" all-paw drivetrain, the six-speed manual-only MPS’s standard safety kit comprises DSC stability control, ABS and brake assist, plus twin front, front side and side curtain airbags.

Also standard is a full bodykit, Xenon headlights, 18 x 7.0-inch wheels, 215/45-section tyres, power windows/mirrors, cruise control, a six-speaker/six-CD sound system, remote central locking, trip computer, reach and rake adjustable steering and climate-control air-conditioning.

Mazda says its ATC AWD system features aggressive torque transfer, with up to 100 per cent of torque automatically directed to the front wheels in normal conditions, and up to 50 per cent sent to the rear wheels in sports or take-off ATC modes.

MPS is claimed to have 50 per cent more torsional rigidity than the standard Six, larger brake discs all round and revised double wishbone front and multi-link rear suspensions.