2023 Mazda 6 for sale

Mar 22, 2022 at 9:09am ET

With the CX-60, Mazda introduced the first of several next-generation models that will ride on the new Skyactiv Multi Solution Scalable Architecture. It is an RWD architecture that can underpin six-cylinder engines and plug-in hybrid powertrains. There have been rumors about the next-gen Mazda6 switching to rear-wheel drive — and the new crossover further fueled the speculation — though, it seems that the sedan won’t be powered by its rear wheels anytime soon.

Mazda Europe development and engineering boss Joachim Kunz recently talked to Autocar and admitted an RWD Mazda6 would be absolutely awesome, but the market has changed a lot in the last years, and selling crossovers and SUVs is way more important than having a good premium sedan. Kunz basically ruled out a rear-wheel-drive sedan from Mazda, contrary to reports from the last two years.

Gallery: 2023 Mazda6 Rendered

"It would be very nice… to have the FR [front-engine, rear-driven] concept and six-cylinder engine for a Mazda6 successor or a large sports coupe,” Kunz told the British magazine. “We would like to have it, but at this point in time, it's most important to sell SUVs. This SUV trend is continuing, and even more for Mazda. It's what's selling best."

From what we are able to understand, for now, the current generation Mazda6 is likely to remain on sale for at least a few more years. Mazda Australia marketing director Alastair Doak recently confirmed to Drive “there’s some updates in the pipeline for it down the track.” It seems that there’s no successor planned for now or, at least, it won’t ride on the new RWD platform.

With the Mazda6 RWD basically ruled out, Autocar reports the rumored RX-9 sports coupe won’t materialize, as well. There has been speculation that Mazda will develop a two-door version of the new Mazda6 riding on the same RWD platform and powered by the new generation of inline-six engines, which made debuts with the CX-60 crossover.

Note: 2023 Mazda6 renderings depicted in the gallery.

Source: Autocar

Second, the drastic change is about transforming the ride into a longitudinal engine construction, complete with the inline-six and rear wheel driving system. There had been rumors about Mazda 6 switching to rear wheel driving system and using a new unit with inline-six type. It seems that the rumors are true, and now we can only wait and see what the upcoming Mazda 6 will look like. They have been working pretty closely with Toyota, so it’s possible that they may adopt engine configuration. It happens to Toyota that adopts the Skyactiv-X six-cylinder unit for their Lexus RC and IS.

The new construction isn’t exactly a new thing considering that Mazda had showed the concept of Mazda Vision Coupe back then in 2017. It’s possible that the new Mazda 6 will take inspiration from that Vision Coupe. After all, it is that good! The Vision Coupe concept came as a coupe with four-door arrangement, along with short rear deck and long hood. However, the concept ride was able to accommodate four people, whereas the new Mazda 6 is said to accommodate 5.

Design and Appearance

It’s exciting to see how the new Mazda 6 will look like, although it’s obvious that the company won’t say anything for now. But the ride is said to have new grille design that is just sharp and thin, defining the future of the company and the auto industry. Basically, it would be a ‘radical’ design that is able to combine beauty and elegance without overdoing it.

Power and Performance

The new sedan is said to come with inline Skyactiv-X turbo six-cylinder gas engine with 3.0 liter capacity as well as 48V [mild] hybrid system that is able to churn 350 hp. The company has patented their new setups for twin-turbocharger, which will likely be included for the new sedan. It’s possible that they have diesel Skyactiv-X six-cylinder unit; they are said to plan it. This is the first time [in Mazda 6’s lifecycle] that this sedan would be offered as a full electric and also plug-in hybrid type.

Mazda is reported of starting their inline-six units production every early in 2022, which happens to coincide with their sedan’s launch. If everything goes as planned, the new Mazda 6 would have all the perfect combo: luxurious cabin, impressive looks, and better performance. They can be the next worthy opponent to Beemer.

Spyder 7, a Japanese media, reported that this new rear wheel Mazda 6 will be available within the [first half of] 2022, but the company hasn’t said anything about a launch for American market. Price range hasn’t been revealed either. Hopefully, they will launch this beautiful sedan for US market after the launch in Japan. We should hear further updates soon concerning 2023 Mazda 6.

Gallery of 2023 Mazda 6 Release Date, Price, and Specs

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