Revising the Mazda6 was no easy task. This successful midsize sedan managed to conquer the hearts of about 9,000 drivers year in, year out. However, newer models have emerged in recent years and made this market segment more competitive than ever, led by the freshly-redesigned Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.
Mazda had no other choice but to respond quickly -- and smartly. The challenge was to maintain the appeal of the old Mazda6 while striking a chord with modern midsize sedan buyers. Designers and engineers had to completely revise the car and give it larger dimensions while staying true to the brand's sporty character. Talk about a daunting task! But that's not all: the new Mazda6 also had to meet the latest North American standards and requirements.
Almost like a sports coupe
The updated lines are even sportier despite the fact that the car is bigger. When standing next to it, you can easily notice the change: the wheelbase is 11.5-centimeter longer while the overall length gains 17 centimeters.
On the road, the sharper silhouette, the coupe-like roofline and the sleeker-looking hood over the traditional five-point grille combine to give the 2009 Mazda6 a commanding presence and, ironically, make the car look smaller than it actually is.
The new design is in line with the automaker's latest products. In addition to the slightly redesigned grille, the 6 sports oversized, flared fenders -- much like the RX-8, CX-7 and other sportier models in the lineup.
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| Designers and engineers had to completely revise the car while staying true to the brand's sporty character. |
Mazda had no other choice but to respond quickly -- and smartly. The challenge was to maintain the appeal of the old Mazda6 while striking a chord with modern midsize sedan buyers. Designers and engineers had to completely revise the car and give it larger dimensions while staying true to the brand's sporty character. Talk about a daunting task! But that's not all: the new Mazda6 also had to meet the latest North American standards and requirements.
Almost like a sports coupe
The updated lines are even sportier despite the fact that the car is bigger. When standing next to it, you can easily notice the change: the wheelbase is 11.5-centimeter longer while the overall length gains 17 centimeters.
On the road, the sharper silhouette, the coupe-like roofline and the sleeker-looking hood over the traditional five-point grille combine to give the 2009 Mazda6 a commanding presence and, ironically, make the car look smaller than it actually is.
The new design is in line with the automaker's latest products. In addition to the slightly redesigned grille, the 6 sports oversized, flared fenders -- much like the RX-8, CX-7 and other sportier models in the lineup.
 |
| The sharper silhouette, the coupe-like roofline and the sleeker-looking hood make the car look smaller than it actually is. |