Mid-life lift for Mazda6

Jan 26 2010 Mike Torpey

Mid-life lift for Mazda6

A FACELIFTED version of the popular Mazda6 will make its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show in early March.

This new, upgraded model moves on the strengths of its predecessor, retaining its fun-to-drive feeling and fuel efficiency, while improving refinement, cabin ambience and safety.

And a new Mazda family face is also introduced, along with new headlamps and rear lights, for a more sporty appearance.

Six engines will be available, including a powerful new 2.0-litre DISI petrol unit that uses less fuel and produces fewer emissions than the one it replaces.

Its five-speed automatic transmission was fine-tuned especially for this new petrol engine to deliver a combination of acceleration and fuel economy. Updated versions of the Mazda MZR 1.8 and 2.5-litre engines complete the petrol line-up.

The Mazda MZR-CD 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine is available in three power derivatives - from 129 to 180ps - all of them responsive and also with improved fuel-efficiency and lower CO2 emissions.

Upgraded versions of the Mazda6 facelift will go on sale in Europe this spring.