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Some tasty and rather spicy news has emerged from the Russian debut of the all-new Mazda6 saloon.

When asked by Auto Express about the possibility of a hot Mazda6 Hiroshi Kajiyama, program manager, replied: “There is a high potential for this, and it would be helpful to the brand.”

Apparently Mazda is has benchmarked the 6 against its competition and reckon it will have better driving dynamics than the Volkswagen Passat (no big deal), the Audi A4 (see previous) and the BMW 3 Series (now that is a bold claim).

If Mazda is right, then you’d like to think an MPS version is a logical progression. Indeed, Kajiyama indicates if such a direction were to be taken Mazda could find even more weight to strip away from the 6, which has already lost around 50kg from the old model.

Meanwhile, Autocar left Moscow with the news that a four-seat Mazda6 coupé could be on the cards, along with the possibility of an all-wheel drive system.

They quote chief designer Akira Tamatani, who said: “There is no decision, but I would love to make one. The first job is to make the saloon and estate, but from this position a coupé is not so far away.”

While Kajiyama had this to say regarding the all-paw platform: “There are no set plans, but we are studying the possibility of introducing all-wheel drive—it would be a good weapon with which to establish the brand.”

He then added: “It is my belief that there is a very strong opportunity for us if we bring it to market.”

Do it!

[Source: Auto Express & Autocar]

Mazda has released the first official information and photos for its all-new Mazda6 sedan. Curiously, the model will make its debut this week at the Moscow Motor Show.

While teaser photos have been issued previously by Mazda, this is the first time we’ve been given a look at the car in full detail. Based on the ‘Kodo’ design language of the stylish Takeri concept, the translation from free reign to production reality has seen some casualties.

At the front we like the detailing of the grille and the sharp crease line over the wheel arch, which defines the Mazda6, setting it apart from its competition. However, the rear flank and tail lights have been toned down too much, we think. To the point that their rounded edges almost look mismatched compared to the higher drama seen up front.

Overall, though, the new Mazda6 is a fine looking car and we’re sure it will create plenty of sales for an already healthy Mazda Australia.

The interior has seen the biggest change from the concept, which is probably to be expected. However, from the photos we see here, it looks as though Mazda has delivered a well laid out set of controls in a smart manner. We don’t think the interior will approach Volkswagen/Audi levels of refinement, but we also don’t expect it to be disappointment.

You’ll need to start getting used to a new marketing buzzword. Skyactiv and i-stop return from earlier models, but we now must add i-eloop for the brake regeneration system featured in the Mazda6.

Mazda6 programme manager, Hiroshi Kajiyama, declares driving dynamics were at the forefront of their mind while creating the car. “In developing the third-generation Mazda6, we pursued Mazda’s intrinsic core value: ‘driving pleasure’,” he said.

“We wanted to create a car that reacts and behaves exactly as you expect it to.  Part of this involved carefully crafting those parts of the car which you often touch to feel as though they are an extension of your own body.

“The distinctive exterior design hints at the power and agility with which the car moves.  A variety of original innovations support a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience.  Mazda’s superb engineering and craftsmanship have created a car that handles so well it seems to respond directly to the driver’s intentions rather than the physical manipulations of steering, braking and accelerating.”

More pics and a comprehensive press release from Mazda can be read below. It’s worth noting at this stage that all specifications listed here relate to the Russian market. Mazda is keen to point out that European, and we expect Australian, specs will differ. Having said that we can’t say we’re expecting any massive changes from what you’ll read below.