Mazda: Mazda6 News

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Old 03-01-2005, 04:56 AM
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Originally Posted by machination
And you claiming that they aren't competitive when the only advantage Honda and nissan holds over them is engine output isn't?
Now I remember why I hate nissan owners. Talk about 'dillusional'.
Jeebus..Lighten up a bit...
Old 04-05-2005, 06:26 PM
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Word has it the Mazdaspeed 6 wont be out till late summer.
Old 04-19-2005, 09:47 AM
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Car News briefs: Mazda delays MazdaSpeed6 until fall; - - Source: Autoweek

Mazda North American Operations has delayed the launch of the MazdaSpeed6 from June until autumn because Mazda engineers are at their capacity limit.

The engineers are working on upcoming launches of the higher-volume MX-5 Miata convertible and Mazda5 small minivan. The MX-5 Miata redesign is slated to arrive in the United States in early August. The Mazda5 will debut in September.

The MazdaSpeed6 is a high-performance version of the Mazda6 sedan. It features a 270-hp, 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It also has all-wheel drive, a limited-slip differential, six-speed manual transmission and sportier suspension and brakes. The price is $28,555, including destination charges.
Old 07-20-2005, 02:37 PM
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Source: http://www.japanesecarfans.com
Old 07-20-2005, 02:42 PM
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Looks nice
Old 07-20-2005, 02:48 PM
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Originally Posted by gavriil
Looks nice


Like a mature RX-8
Old 07-20-2005, 02:49 PM
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Can you say...

NAVIGATION?!?!

YEA!!!!
Old 07-20-2005, 02:52 PM
  #248  
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So is this what NA is getting for 06?
Old 07-20-2005, 03:03 PM
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^ I believe so.
Old 07-20-2005, 03:04 PM
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Originally Posted by gavriil
^ I believe so.

Any word on the engine gav? I'm guessing because there's a pic of it included there may be some revisions?
Old 07-20-2005, 03:07 PM
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I really like the interior and the exterior isn't bad, but not my favorite. Mazda has gone with a traditional shape and just tried to jazz it up with clear tail lights, "brake ducts", and some funky headlights. Overall the package is nice, but I would have done a little more with the exterior than they did if I were designing it.

I'll have to drive one to see how different the new model is. I was pretty impressed by the last one.
Old 07-20-2005, 03:12 PM
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Originally Posted by dom
Any word on the engine gav? I'm guessing because there's a pic of it included there may be some revisions?
Yes, I will post the whole press release next. I should have done that actually. Stand by for a few minutes.
Old 07-20-2005, 03:14 PM
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Mazda6 Facelift - - Text & Photos courtesy Mazda Motor Corporation - - Source: http://www.japanesecarfans.com

Mazda6 Facelift Enhancements at a Glance

Exterior
New front grille design
New front/rear bumpers
New exhaust pipes (2.0 and 2.3- litre petrols)
New black bezels for front /rear lights
New 16, 17 and 18-inch alloys
Front fog lamps
New Sports Appearance Package

Interior
New trim materials, including thicker armrest material
New meter cluster bezel
Door handles front/rear
Dark titanium coloured centre panel

Comfort and Entertainment
Single CD player
Automatic power rear windows
Advanced keyless entry system and Redractable key with global closing
Burglar alarm system —Thatcham Category-1
Semi-bucket front seats (depending on grade)
Driver seat position memory system
Improved insulation, vibration damping and reinforcements for less cabin noise

Powertrain
Refined 2.0-litre common-rail turbo diesel engines
Diesel particulate filter system standard for diesel engines
Refined 1.8-litre, 2.0-litre and 2.3-litre petrol engines
New six-speed manual transmission (for diesel engines and 2.0/2.3-litre petrols)
New five-speed Activematic transmission (for 2.0/2.3-litre petrols)

Chassis
Enlarged disc brakes (320 mm front /314 mm rear) for 18-inch alloy wheels optional for 2.3- litre petrol)
Retuned front and rear suspension bushings

Safety
Increased A- and B-pillar rigidity and strength
New body reinforcements
New outer door panel reinforce- ments and door pad
Thick front frame reinforce- ment
Rain-sensing wiper system
Auto light system
Seat belt reminder and indicator for rear seat

A Great Car Gets Even Better
The launch of the Mazda6 in 2002 was a milestone for Mazda Motor Corporation. As the first product of Mazda’s new Zoom- Zoom model philosophy, Mazda6 made it immediately obvious that the pledge to put a bit of sports car into every new Mazda was no idle promise. Mazda6’s fun-to-drive character was reminiscent of such legendary cars as the rotary-engine Mazda RX-7 and the Mazda MX-5, but this time in a comfortable, sophisticated and sporty looking midsized car.


The Mazda6 introduced a new kind of Mazda to the world and changed how people perceived the Mazda brand. Added to its well-deserved reputation for dependability and generous standard equipment packages were dynamic, stylish design, insightful packaging and spirited driving attributes.


This combination was a hit right from the beginning. The Mazda6 not only went on to win over 100 automobile awards worldwide, but Mazda has produced more than 620,000 units to date and it continues to be Mazda’s top-selling model globally. In Europe, it initiated nothing less than a complete turn- around and led Mazda Motor Europe to levels of success that not even the most optimistic had thought possible. In 2003, its first full year on the market, over 100,000 Mazda6s were sold in Europe, and it was consistently one of the top-selling Japanese import cars in its segment. Its popularity has not waned and in 2004 it remained Mazda’s best- selling model in Europe, finding nearly the same number of owners as in its first year and achieving a segment share of 5.7 percent.


Mazda chose the 2005 Geneva Motor Show to present the first facelift version of the original best-seller to highlight its importance to the European market. The new version, which will go on sale starting in early summer this year, clearly adds more of what made Mazda6 so popular among customers, with sophisticated and sporty enhance- ments to both the exterior and interior, five newly-refined engines, two new transmissions and enhanced suspension attributes. Combined in all three body styles — Mazda6 sedan, Mazda6 Sport and Mazda6 Wagon — they deliver high levels of refined maturity intended to make one of the segment’s out- standing cars even better.



Exterior
Evolved Athleticism Mazda6’s exterior has always been the epitome of Mazda’s new-generation design theme of athleticism that combines refinement, sophistication and a bold road presence. The face- lifted Mazda6 takes these attributes one step further, providing a stronger and sportier appearance for all three models by refining the front and rear of the car.


Added to the car’s distinctive air inlet apertures in the front skirt, and the slim clear glass headlights, is a new upper grille design now markedly recessed, giving the lower section a deeper lip for a distinctive, three-dimensional appearance.


The lower grille design is modified for a more aggressive, sporty appearance and the former diamond grille mesh has been replaced by an elongated honeycomb for a touch of sporty sophistication. The front bumper has also been redesigned to emphasize Mazda6’s speedy appearance, and there are fog lights (optional or standard, depending on grade) and headlights with new thin black bezels for a sporty elegance.


Seen from the side, the Mazda6 facelift retains its sporty design language achieved through the steeply angled windshield and large, flared wheel wells. For even more sophistication and sportiness, the Mazda6 facelift has been enhanced with new 16, 17 and 18-inch aluminium alloy wheels. At the back, the rear bumper, exhaust pipes (2.0 and 2.3-litre petrols) and new rear light bezels enhance the strong, dynamic look of the car. A horizontal line has been added between the reflectors to emphasize the car’s wide stance, while the wrap-around taillights with black bezels match the headlights, giving a consistent and high-quality look to the whole. Two additional body colours are available as well—Phantom Blue Mica and the all-new Brilliant Carbon Grey Mica.


An additional visual differentiator for most European markets is the Sports Appearance Package, which will be available in selected markets and gives the Mazda6 an even stronger athleticism with exterior cues that reflect the look of the top- end Mazda6 MPS. These include the front grille design, with the Mazda brand symbol on wings, and the front bumper with new aero skirts. The line running from the underside of the front bumper, over the side skirts and to the rear bumper has been modified, and at the back of the car there is a spoiler and new bumper aero skirting. These design features give the Mazda6 facelift with the Sports Appearance Package a particularly sporty and sophisticated look.

Interior
Since its launch nearly three years ago, Mazda6 has excelled through its insightful interior design that combines roominess, easy-to-use functionality and craftsmanship. Left unchanged are the basic packaging strengths that have made it one of the segment’s most attractive cars, including roomy interior dimensions front and back, comfort- able seats with strong side support, a cleanly designed and ergonomically adjustable driver environment, Karakuri seat functionality— which allows the rear seats to be folded down flat without having to remove the headrests by simply operating a lever on the side of the boot — and a large boot with a volume of up to 505 litres.


Within these parameters, the Mazda6 facelift enhances overall quality feel with new trim, new meter bezels, sporty seats and centre panel design. The door trim has been completely redesigned so that customers can tangibly experience Mazda craftsmanship the moment they open the door. The quality of the colours and materials has been improved and thicker cushion material added to the armrests for a softer, higher quality feel. The doors themselves now have grip-type interior door handles, front and back, which can be held by passengers during sportier driving.


In front of the driver are newly- designed metres that convey sportiness and elegance. To the driver’s right, the Mazda6 facelift introduces a new dark titanium coloured centre panel (depending on grade) replacing the metallic- look of the previous version. This enhances the overall quality feel in an interior already characterized by high levels of craftsmanship.


Comfort and Entertainment Newly introduced with the Mazda6 facelift is an Advanced keyless entry system that is more convenient than conventional entry systems. Its card-type key locks and unlocks the doors and starts the engine, without the driver ever having to take the card out of his or her pocket, which is especially handy when carrying shopping bags or luggage. By pressing the request switch installed above the handle on both front doors, on the boot lid or liftgate, all doors are unlocked or locked. The system also has a transmitter that allows opening and closing of all windows from outside the vehicle. On hot days, for instance, this allows you to open up the windows to let cooler air in without getting into the car, or allows you to close any windows left open by mistake.


On the inside the Mazda6 facelift, just like its predecessor, has comfortable standard seats with plenty of side support and an onboard audio system to make the trip a truly pleasurable experience. The electrical driver’s seat adjustment now features a new seat position memory system. The system stores the seat settings of up to three different drivers, each of which can be called forth simply by pressing one of the three buttons to the left of the driver below the cushion. New front row semi-bucket seats are introduced as well (depending on grade) offering improved leg and side support, while giving the cockpit an even sportier and more sophisticated appearance.


Road noise has been further decreased by the introduction of new tyres and wheels, sound insulation material in 18 major locations, new vibration damping structures and extra reinforcements, all of which contribute to making the Mazda6 facelift interior environment even more enjoyable and comfortable than before.


Of course, the Mazda6 facelift would not be a Mazda without an opulent standard equipment package. Added to an already complete package are a single CD player, automatic front and rear power windows, Retractable key and global closing function. New options include Advanced keyless entry, burglar alarm, rain sensing wipers, auto light system and front fog lamps, which are added to the list of Mazda6 features already available.


Helping to ensure that no uninvited guests get to enjoy the comfort and entertainment systems of the Mazda6 facelift is a Thatcham Category-1 burglar alarm system, which uses a rolling code function that changes every time the transmitter is operated. The system also includes a comprehensive intrusion sensor layout that detects window intrusion and other body openings, and will go off if the battery is disconnected. The intrusion sensing function can be disabled by remote control, while leaving all other systems functional.



Powertrain - More Power, Lower Fuel Consumption
One of the key aspects to the success of the outgoing Mazda6 has been its spirited, fun-to-drive nature. In developing the facelift model, Mazda engineers not only focused on making the car even more sophisticated inside and out, they also improved the dynamic attributes to make the unique Mazda6 mixture of sporty sophistication even more attractive.


Five refined engines — two derivatives of a 2.0-litre common-rail turbo diesel and three petrols, a 1.8-litre, 2.0-litre, and 2.3-litre — are introduced with the Mazda6 facelift. All of them deliver better or equal performance and torque with equal or lower fuel consumption than the outgoing engines. This means more Mazda6 driving fun with lower operating costs.


The MZR-CD 2.0-litre is a newly- refined four-cylinder common-rail turbo diesel engine that delivers more torque and power, operating refinement that is virtually equal to that of a similar petrol engine, and lower emissions with a diesel particulate filter system as standard. The engine comes in two derivatives to meet the demands of European customers, including a Standard Power version for customers looking for common-rail refinement and power, with low operating costs. It produces a maximum of 89 kW /121 PS of power at 3,500 rpm, with higher maximum torque of 320 Nm at 2,000 rpm for plenty of engine responsiveness across the speed range, and has a targeted combined fuel consumption of just 6.0 litres per 100 km. The High Power version is for more performance-minded drivers and produces 105 kW/143 PS of maximum power at 3,500 rpm, a robust maximum torque of 360 Nm at 2000 rpm with a targeted combined fuel consumption of 6.0 litres per 100 km. The High Power version produces 5 kW/ 7 PS and 50 Nm more than the diesel aggregate it replaces, yet is targeted to use approximately half a litre less fuel per 100 km, meaning customers can have even more Zoom-Zoom driving fun while paying less at the pump.


A major contributor to these improvements is a newly-designed variable-geometry turbocharger that has a lower inertia moment and features a shorter distance between the exhaust gas inlet and the centre of the turbine shaft. The variable- geometry turbocharger is combined with the engine’s high pressure common-rail fuel injection system, with optimized injection volume and multi-stage injection of up to nine times per cycle, and a relatively low compression ratio of 16.7, all of which improve output and torque, repress combustion noise and reduce emissions.


Mazda6 facelift’s MZR-CD 2.0-litre common-rail turbo diesel engine has various features to ensure that it meets or exceeds Euro Stage IV emission standards. NOx emissions have been reduced by lowering combustion temperatures. This is achieved, in part, by using a lower compression ratio that allows a lower pilot premix combustion temperature. To optimize and better control the air/fuel mixture, the engine has a high-response intake shutter valve and a valve to control exhaust-gas recirculation cooler rates, both located on the intake side. There is also an O2 sensor that monitors residual oxygen in the exhaust gases, which contributes to reducing NOx emissions.


Both diesel derivatives come standard with a diesel particulate filter system that reduces black smoke to almost zero by capturing diesel particulate matter in a ceramic filter. Once this filter has captured a pre-determined amount of particulate matter, exhaust gas temperatures are raised to burn it off and regenerate the filter. As a result, Mazda6 facelift with the new diesel engine produces 80 percent fewer particulate matter emissions than Euro Stage IV standards allow.


Three refined petrol engines complete the engine line up. All are 16-valve, DOHC aggregates and feature technical advancements that deliver equal or improved power output with equal or lower fuel consumption.


The Mazda6 facelift retains the 1.8-litre four-cylinder base engine that produces 88 kW/120 PS of maximum power at 5,500 rpm and 165 Nm of maximum torque at 4,300 rpm. However, it has been upgraded to include an electronically controlled throttle valve for even better drivability. With this engine, the Mazda6 sedan with manual transmission is targeted to use 7.7 litres (combined) of petrol per 100 km, with a top speed of 197 km/h and a Euro Stage IV emissions rating.


The newly-refined MZR 2.0-litre four-cylinder aggregate produces a maximum of 108 kW/147 PS at 6,500 rpm and a maximum torque of 184 Nm at 4,000 rpm. It features a variable intake system that optimizes the cylinder charging effect of pressure in the intake manifold by varying the length of the intake passage via a special valve. By closing at low and mid-range engine speeds and opening at higher engine speeds, it maximizes torque across the speed range, and provides even more of the spirited engine response to gas pedal input that Mazda6 is known for. Also onboard is sequential valve timing, which adjusts the timing of the intake valves according to engine speed and intake volume. It optimizes engine efficiency at all speeds and contributes to better power delivery, lower fuel consumption and emissions. The engine also has an electronically controlled throttle valve for better drivability and a dual silencer, which improves power output. As a result, the Mazda6 sedan with manual transmission and the MZR 2.0-litre petrol has a top speed of 211 km/h, is targeted to use 7.8 litres (combined) of petrol per 100 km and meets the Euro Stage IV emission standard.


The largest engine of the petrol line up is a 2.3-litre four-cylinder that produces a maximum of 122 kW /166 PS at 6,500 rpm, and maximum torque of 207 Nm at 4,000 rpm, with lower fuel consumption than the previous top-end petrol. It also has a variable intake system for maximum torque throughout the speed range, an electronic throttle control valve and a dual silencer for improved output at all engine speeds. With this powerful and responsive engine, the Mazda6 sedan with manual transmission reaches a top speed of 214 km/h* with a combined targeted fuel consumption of 8.7 litres per 100 km* and a Euro Stage IV emissions rating.


Two newly-developed transmissions are introduced as well, including a six-speed manual transmission as standard for both diesel derivatives and for the 2.0-litre and 2.3-litre petrol engines. It has been optimized with different gear ratios for each of the three individual engines to get the most out of their power and torque characteristics. It has also been developed with optimized shift lever operability, a shorter shift stroke with ergonomically optimized operating force and shift feel, which make the Mazda6 facelift with these engines even more fun to drive. The base 1.8-litre petrol engine comes standard with the five-speed manual gearbox that has made the outgoing Mazda6 with this engine such a great car to drive.


For the 2.0-litre and the 2.3-litre petrol engines, a new five-speed Activematic transmission is available as an option, which replaces the former four-speed Activematic gearbox. The new Activematic features refined Direct Electronic Shift Control for even smoother shift feel, and an optimum layout for the hydraulic control system for shifting between fourth and fifth gear. The range of the slip control system has also been extended, which helps reduce transmission loss by the torque converter, and which gives an ideal balance between performance and fuel economy.

Body and Chassis - More Rigidity, More Driving Fun
The body and chassis systems of the Mazda6 facelift have been tuned and refined to ensure that the new engine performance translates into Mazda6-typical driving fun. The chassis components of the Mazda6 facelift are more rigid and combined with an increase in local body stiffness for a marked improvement in dynamic performance.


For Mazda6 facelift’s body shell, the thickness of the front frame reinforcements was increased, two additional body frame reinforcements were added, the rigidity of the outer door panel reinforcements increased and a new door pad incorporated. The upper A-pillar on the driver’s side was also reinforced, the thickness of the B-pillar reinforcements increased and the outer reinforcements and gussets of the lower B-pillar redesigning for more rigidity.


These enhanced reinforcements to the Mazda6 facelift’s body shell work in conjunction with a suspension system architecture that is unchanged, but retuned to improve the new version’s road holding capabilities and handling stability. The Mazda6 facelift has a double wishbone front suspension, hydraulic power assisted steering and an E-type multi-link rear suspension system, all of which deliver high levels of road holding capability. For the Mazda6 facelift, the suspension has been revised to include front and rear bushings modified to deliver more flexural and torsional rigidity and tuned to work with the springs and dampers to deliver an optimal balance between predictable handling control and ride comfort.


The Mazda6 facelift has four large disc brakes, and anti-lock brake system (ABS) with electronic brake distribution (EBD). Mazda’s dynamic stability control (DSC) with electronically-controlled brake assist is available as well for even more safety. To apply the effect of this outstanding braking system gently and smoothly, Mazda has developed an innovative braking force booster for constant pedal pressure, and uses especially strong brake hoses that do not bulge under high pres- sure and detract from pedal feel. Added to those models with new 18-inch wheels (2.3-litre petrol) are new 320 mm front and 314 mm rear disc brakes, which enhance even further the Mazda6’s braking performance.



Safety & Security
The Mazda6 facelift’s active safety package begins by delivering predict- able, controllable handling in normal conditions coupled with robust four-wheel disc brakes, ABS and EBD as standard, and available DSC with electronically controlled brake assist. Added to this are several new optional features to help the driver avoid an accident before it occurs. These include a new intelligent auto light system that employs two sensors — a forward and an upward-facing sensor — which constantly monitor light levels and turn the lights on and off according to conditions. Full auto wiping is also available, which controls wiper on/off and high/low speeds automatically via a sensor that analyzes infrared reflectivity to determine how wet the windshield is to provide optimal wiper functionality so the driver can concentrate on the road.


Mazda6 facelift also has a redesigned body structure for improved crash safety with the goal of achieving a five-star rating on European NCAP testing. With improved body rigidity, the Mazda6 facelift has passive safety levels that deliver a strong passenger cell for even more pro- tection in case of impact. These improvements build on an extremely rigid subframe that absorbs and distributes impact energy away from the passengers. Inside the occupant cell is a collapsible brake pedal that helps reduce the risk of leg injuries to the driver in case of frontal impact. Front and side air- bags for front occupants are onboard, along with curtain airbags for both front and rear passengers. The Mazda6 facelift also includes a seat- belt reminder tone and indicator for the rear seats, added to the standard reminder for the front seats. This feature is especially practical for families with children.



Technical Data – Mazda6 Facelift Petrols



Technical Data – Mazda6 Facelift Diesels



Performance Data – Mazda6 Facelift Petrols



Performance Data – Mazda6 Facelift Diesels

Old 07-20-2005, 03:16 PM
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I am sure most of this data for the engines is for Europe and other continents. I am guessing we will get the 2.3L and Ford's V6.
Old 07-20-2005, 03:20 PM
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Looks about the same to me.

I never like the look of that car in it's barebones look anyway. Spoiler does a lot for that car.
Old 07-20-2005, 03:22 PM
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I am not sure if we're gonna get those clear rear lights though. Europe got them all along.
Old 07-20-2005, 03:47 PM
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Originally Posted by gavriil
I am not sure if we're gonna get those clear rear lights though. Europe got them all along.
The rear lights are more likely than the fronts since the fronts need to have amber reflectors to pass DOT regulations.
Old 07-20-2005, 05:17 PM
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Hmph... I like the exterior a little less than the current version. The interor's dash is nice though.
Old 07-20-2005, 08:27 PM
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can't tell the difference
Old 07-20-2005, 10:09 PM
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Originally Posted by bl^5
Can you say...

NAVIGATION?!?!

YEA!!!!
Yea, it's about damn time they put it on there top model.
Old 07-20-2005, 11:31 PM
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Originally Posted by DownUnder
Yea, it's about damn time they put it on there top model.
haha, ya i never understood why they didnt included the navi on there bigger most expensive car...
Old 07-20-2005, 11:34 PM
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Originally Posted by dom
Altezza rear lights
They need to loose those. Are we back in 2000?
Old 09-12-2005, 11:25 AM
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Mazda product developer takes blame for delayed U.S. launch of MazdaSpeed6
MARK RECHTIN | Automotive News
Posted Date: 9/12/05

MONTEREY, Calif. - It's my fault.

How often do you hear those words in the auto industry?

But at Mazda North American Operations, Robert Davis is falling on his sword.

Davis, Mazda's senior vice president of product development and quality, is taking the blame for delaying the U.S. launch of the MazdaSpeed6.

The high-performance sedan was to have arrived at car dealerships in June with a base sticker of $28,555, including destination. But 30 days before Job 1, Davis wouldn't sign off on the North American edition of the car. As a result, the MazdaSpeed6 will not arrive until late September.

Davis' problem: He felt the transmission's final drive was not right for the U.S. market. The final drive is the last set of gears before power is delivered to the wheels. The drive determines the speed ratio between the drive shafts and wheels.

Initially, the U.S. versions had a lower final-drive ratio for lower engine revs while freeway cruising. The ratio brings slower acceleration but slightly better gasoline mileage. The Japanese and European editions had a higher final-drive ratio for quicker bursts of speed.

After evaluating both versions, the Japanese and European engineers decided to go with the U.S. edition's gearing as well. Suppliers were contacted, production dates were set.

But Davis then saw the original Japanese-market prototype and was smitten. He felt that the original, higher Japanese final-drive ratio, when mated to the 2.3-liter turbocharged engine's 274 hp and 280 pounds-feet of torque, was better suited for MazdaSpeed6 customers.

"The way the torque comes on, it's actually better with a higher final-drive ratio," he said.

Davis took his case to Jim O'Sullivan, CEO of Mazda North American Operations, who gave Davis his vote of confidence.

The main cause for the 90-day delay was the EPA's recertification process.

Mazda expects U.S. sales of about 6,000 units a year, the most of any market.

As a result of the delay, Japan and Europe will get the initial U.S. production allocation. The United States will get a larger chunk of production down the line.
Old 09-13-2005, 05:09 AM
  #264  
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I pretty much gave up on this car ever coming out.
Old 09-13-2005, 06:42 AM
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Seems like he made an error/bad timing. better mileage would be a better marketing tool than quicker highway accel
Old 09-13-2005, 08:12 AM
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Originally Posted by 95gt
Seems like he made an error/bad timing. better mileage would be a better marketing tool than quicker highway accel
Seriously...and especially since with that much power, it should still be pretty decently quick.
Old 09-13-2005, 10:23 AM
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Originally Posted by 95gt
Seems like he made an error/bad timing. better mileage would be a better marketing tool than quicker highway accel
The one thing that irks me about Audi is their very high final drive ratio in comparison to BMW and Mercedes. At 70mph the Audis are about 500 RPM higher ... I realize they are quiet cars but that extra 500RPM does make a difference in noise.

I don't like 3500RPM at 70mph
Old 09-13-2005, 10:26 AM
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I just looked at that Mondeo ST220 photo again and got incredibly bitter again.

If I had the money, I'd grey market that car and drive to Dearborn and give everyone there the finger.
Old 09-13-2005, 05:13 PM
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Originally Posted by charliemike
I just looked at that Mondeo ST220 photo again and got incredibly bitter again.

If I had the money, I'd grey market that car and drive to Dearborn and give everyone there the finger.


Old 09-14-2005, 04:47 PM
  #270  
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i had design class last night at the Mazda HQ in irvine and there were 8 MazdaSpeed6's parked in the lot lined up next to each other. Looks really nice. I took a snapshot of it on my phone but cant upload right now...maybe later...
Old 10-21-2005, 07:23 AM
  #271  
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MazdaSpeed6 released!!! (autoblog)

FInally...
I just priced mine out to just over 30K.

Link



Engineers at Mazda have finally gotten around to applying the MazdaSpeed treatment to the already revered Mazda6 sedan. Though it was scheduled to debut in the summer, the simultaneous rollouts of both the MX-5 and Mazda5 were more important to the company’s bottom-line and took precedence. Autoblog reader Kamil, however, has noticed that the MazdaSpeed6 finally appeared on the company’s website recently, though a quick scan of my local dealers revealed none had any in stock yet. Has anyone seen a MazdaSpeed6 on the road yet?

The MazdaSpeed6 is an interesting sports sedan that hasn’t played follow-the-leader by pumping up the output of its 220-hp 3.0L V6 to even higher levels. Rather, it uses a unique direct injection, turbocharged 2.4L four-cylinder spooling up to a maximum 15.6 psi and producing a prodigious 274 hp and an even more impressive 280 lb-ft. of torque. It’s got AWD, a six-speed manual, nice looking 18-inch wheels and returns 20/26 mpg. Plus, you just can’t beat the power bulge in the hood. Pricing starts at $28,555 for the sport model.
Old 10-21-2005, 07:44 AM
  #272  
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I likes, I likes

really want the auto start and keyless entry but don't want the leather and moonroof
Old 10-21-2005, 08:43 AM
  #273  
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I received an Instaquote from Open Road Mazda (Edison, NJ) for $29,925 (Grand Touring w/Navigation)
Old 10-21-2005, 09:16 AM
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i like the power and the AWD, but not a fan of the looks....i would rather the 6 s with 270+hp and AWD
Old 10-21-2005, 11:03 AM
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3600 lbs, FWD-biased AWD, plasticky dash, and guaranteed lousy resale value for $30k.

I'll take a Legacy GT any day over this. Although, the Mazda does look good on the outside.

At least Mazda makes an effort to sell sporty vehicles. Where is Honda/Acura's turbocharged sports sedan with AWD?
Old 10-21-2005, 11:33 AM
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This is a pretty well-done car in a crowded segment. I wouldn't be surprised if it didn't sell much at all. Not for nothing, but I don't see people in the market for a high-performance Mazda. There's something about a Mazda that really doesn't catch my eye. I'd definitely buy a TL, G35, Legacy GT, A4, or another car in that range over this.
Old 10-21-2005, 11:43 AM
  #277  
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I like it. I just figured it would fill in a spot for the ones that can afford an STi or and Lan Evo, but just couldn't get over the in your face attitude/look that comes w/ the car.
Old 10-21-2005, 01:13 PM
  #278  
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Lightbulb

I like it, was actually seriously thinking of buying one. But after seeing that it is a mid 14 second car, I decided to keep the CLS for a couple more years. Also we have a 6i already.
Old 10-21-2005, 01:53 PM
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<----- waiting to see if Mitsubishi reincarnates the Galant VR4.
Old 10-21-2005, 02:01 PM
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If I remember correctly that car is slow.... 0-60 like 6.8s or slower


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