Further on our previous news release, Mazda has issued the following press release:
We are very pleased to introduce the evolved all-new 2nd generation Mazda6 at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show.
As programme manager of the first generation Mazda6, the first embodiment of the Zoom-Zoom initiative, I devoted myself to the development of a “global car” that would define how Mazda’s unique character should develop. It was a challenge to create a car that would stand out even on Germany’s autobahns, which are the ultimate test for cars, in terms of beauty, enjoyment, practicality and comfort. To achieve this, we aimed at comprehensive innovation covering design, packaging, platform and powertrain. Developed with this determination, the original Mazda6 significantly raised the bar for CD car design and boosted Mazda’s evolving brand image.
In March 2007, we announced “Sustainable Zoom-Zoom”, a programme aimed at engineering cars with an enhanced harmony between driving pleasure and paying more attention to safety and the environment – an essential effort in the evolution of Zoom-Zoom.
The all-new Mazda6 inherits the first-generation model’s individuality and excellence and, through careful consideration of our customers’ feedback and demands, has become even more desirable. The new model shows dramatic advances in distinctive design, exceptional functionality, and responsive handling and performance – the three essential elements of Mazda’s DNA. I believe that Mazda’s determination to build cars that “look inviting to drive, are fun to drive, and make you want to drive them again” while also advancing environmental and safety performance is perfectly embodied in the new Mazda6. Look for a great deal more from our advanced Zoom-Zoom. — all-new Mazda2 sedan world premiere.
Seita Kanai
Director, Senior Managing Executive Officer
in Charge of Research and Development
“Kizuna” Brings Greater Satisfaction
“Zoom-Zoom Evolution”- this expression represents the commitment by every development team member to show the world a further evolved Zoom-Zoom from the first generation Mazda6.
With this expression we delivered an all-new Mazda6, which fully embodies the progressing of Mazda’s product development philosophy.
While deepening the kizuna or “emotional connection” with the development team, I came to appreciate this connection with the Mazda6 itself. Kizuna implies strong emotional ties. I firmly believe that together with the enhanced new technology and realization of high levels of performance, it is just as important to realize a strong kizuna between the car and the driver coming from the sense of reliance, comfort and affinity with the car.
I would like to present a kizuna experience together with the all-new Mazda6. I believe this car can continue to lead the CD segment with an experience that only Mazda can provide. — 2009 Ford Flex crossover.
Ryuichi Umeshita
New Mazda6 Programme Manager
Advanced exterior styling based on Japanese aesthetics
The exterior has a unique character, expressed by the interplay of discreetly flowing curves and prominent edges from the front end through the fenders, and through the taut curves that lend richness and strength to the rear view. The door panel placed between the sharp top and bottom character lines convey an expression of beauty from simplicity. Then there’s the exquisiteness of detail evident everywhere in the tsukurikomi (inbuilt quality). Combined, these elements of beauty create an advanced, emotion-pleasing character that could only be found in a Mazda.
As before, there are three body styles: hatchback, sedan and estate. The five-door hatchback symbolizes the new Mazda6’s sporty and sophisticated nature with a flowing, coup’-style silhouette and a six side-window cabin design. The sedan plays down its three-box form with its tautly-arched cabin and short, high tail, giving it a fastback look clearly related to that of the hatchback. The estate version features three-dimensional curves that give volume and tension to the side and rear view to achieve a level of stylish design, rare in an estate.
Interior design – Driving enjoyment, secure feeling, high quality
The sporty and sophisticated interior design perfectly expresses the “Bold and Exquisite” design theme. For the sporty aspect, the designers created a snug, cockpit-like driving environment with a relaxed driving position, clear instruments and intuitive controls to support it. The design of the dashboard and door trim builds an exquisite contrast of grace and sharp, mechanical dignity to yield a space where the driver and passengers travel in pleasure, comfort and calmness, helped by the way the facia top curves away from the occupants and seems to float above the structure beneath. — major enhancements to the BMW X5.
Driving Dynamics
The development theme for the Mazda6’s dynamics was “Driving performance that creates oneness between the car and driver”. This was realized by driving dynamics, steering, handling, and brake performance that respond accurately to the driver’s intentions. Also, the further enhanced high-quality ride and quietness provide a sense of security in accordance with the feeling of oneness between the car and the driver. This solid sense of security created by the confident, predictable handling is central to the Zoom-Zoom evolution concept embodied in the new Mazda6.
Enhanced engine line-up
A new 2.5-litre petrol engine has been developed from the previous 2.3-litre unit. The MZR 2.5 has a bigger bore and a longer stroke, plus freer-flowing intake and exhaust ports which together improve torque in the frequently used-range by approximately 10 percent. This assures a more linear acceleration feel, nimbler driving and more precise response. Power is 170 PS. Also available are the enhanced 1.8 and 2.0-litre petrol engines and the MZR-CD 2.0 turbo diesel, carried over from the previous Mazda6.
Lightweight body with greater rigidity
As well as achieving high body rigidity, Mazda engineers worked on reducing weight to further improve dynamic performance and fuel economy. Reinforcement at key points and the widespread use of high-tensile and ultra-high-tensile steel brought significant increases in torsional stiffness, up by 30 percent for the hatchback, 25 percent for the estate and 14 percent for the sedan. Despite this, the body shell’s weight is greatly reduced to class leading levels due to the increased percentage by weight of high-tensile and ultra-high-tensile steel sheet and optimal layout created by using CAE technology.
Aerodynamics among the segment’s best
Attractive styling and aerodynamic efficiency go hand-in-hand with the Mazda6. From the early stages of development, Mazda engineers utilized simulation testing to the fullest in order to improve their initial designs, and then carefully fine-tuned them with prototypes and the wind tunnel. In the end, they achieved a remarkable drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.27 for the hatchback and sedan versions and 0.28 for the estate. New horseshoe-shaped air deflectors ahead of the front wheels ensure adequate brake cooling despite the low Cd. Fore-and-aft lift balance is also optimised, keeping the car stable and firmly grounded at high speed.
