New Mazda6 Is Bringing Sexy Back

The Mazda 6 has strayed more towards the side of interesting since it first came out in 2003. A few images of the upcoming third-generation Mazda 6 have leaked out, and it's apparent that the Hiroshima underdogs have found their mojo again.

The new Mazda6 adopts Mazda's latest design language, called "Kodo". Translation: very fluid lines, without the "hi, give me a hug!" character of their recent efforts. The 6 was previewed by the striking Takeri concept from last year, but has been toned down a bit for production. The CX-5 was the first to adopt the new styling, and it's done to even greater effect here in the 6. The chrome trim piece that defines the lower edge of the front grille blending into the headlight housings is a great touch, as is the surfacing on the tail lights. It's dramatic, but it doesn't look like it will age as quickly as say, the Hyundai Sonata.

Regardless of styling ("opinions are like elbows; everyone's got them"), the Mazda6 should remain an entertaining steer in an otherwise dire class of duds. The whole car will be smaller than the outgoing model (at least relative to the large US-spec current model) and should regain some of the agility of the original Mazda6. The 6 will be available with a pair of Mazda's SkyActiv integrated powertrains: the 2.0L 155-horsepower SkyActiv gas engine, and the 2.2L SkyActivD diesel engine, both of which come with 6-speed manuals and automatics. Beyond that, Mazda isn't saying, but don't expect a big heavy six cylinder to make an appearance. Interestingly, it will include a system called i-ELOOP, which is a regenerative braking system that stores excess energy in a capacitor. Mazda says it's good for a 10% fuel economy bump; I think it'd be good for powering a subwoofer.

The new 6 will be making it's public debut at the Moscow Auto Show next month (Moscow?), with the full line appearing in Paris this fall. A whole host of variants (probably a 5-door and a wagon) will likely follow. I see it this way: even if it's rubbish to drive (which it probably isn't), it's still right up at the top of it's class for looking great, along with the Aston-inspired Ford Fusion/Mondeo. Bringing a little romance back to a painfully sterile segment? Thanks, Mazda!