What is it?
2006 Mazda Mazdaspeed 6
What's special about it?
The Mazda 6 sedan has been enjoying sales success its 626 predecessor could only dream of, and as if rewarded for its popularity, Mazda officials are adding an improved performance version to the 6 lineup. The new Mazdaspeed 6 is the production version of the Mazda 6 MPS concept car which debuted at the Paris Auto Show in 2002.
Under the Mazdaspeed 6's hood lies a turbocharged and direct-injected version of Mazda's 2.3-liter four-cylinder that produces 256 horsepower. An electronic throttle and an electronically controlled turboboost system were added to produce more linear acceleration than your typical turbo. This quick four-cylinder is mated to a six-speed manual transmission, and Mazda's new Active Torque Split, All-Wheel-Drive system. The AWD system transfers torque to the rear axle to balance the car depending on three driver selectable modes. To further enhance handling, the Mazdaspeed 6 has improved body rigidity, a stiffer suspension and larger brakes.
The sporty new 6 has distinctive exterior lines that incorporate its turbocharged engine and intercooler through the use of a raised hood and a five-point upper grille section that serves as the air intake. Flared side skirts flank unique 18-inch aluminum wheels while the rear bumper houses an integrated dual exhaust tailpipe and a rear lip spoiler.
Inside the cabin, the Mazdaspeed 6 adds several performance details including a revised speedometer, a custom six-speed manual transmission shift knob and sport seats with greater side support.
What's Edmunds Take?
Given that the Mazda 6 is already one of the best handling midsize sedans on the market, the Mazdaspeed version promises to be a real sleeper. Going with a turbocharged four-cylinder in place of a big-bore V6 might be a bit of a risk, but Mazda's reputation as a builder of cars that are a little different than its mainstream competitors makes it seem like a perfect fit. — Kelly Toepke
2006 Mazda Mazdaspeed 6
What's special about it?
The Mazda 6 sedan has been enjoying sales success its 626 predecessor could only dream of, and as if rewarded for its popularity, Mazda officials are adding an improved performance version to the 6 lineup. The new Mazdaspeed 6 is the production version of the Mazda 6 MPS concept car which debuted at the Paris Auto Show in 2002.
Under the Mazdaspeed 6's hood lies a turbocharged and direct-injected version of Mazda's 2.3-liter four-cylinder that produces 256 horsepower. An electronic throttle and an electronically controlled turboboost system were added to produce more linear acceleration than your typical turbo. This quick four-cylinder is mated to a six-speed manual transmission, and Mazda's new Active Torque Split, All-Wheel-Drive system. The AWD system transfers torque to the rear axle to balance the car depending on three driver selectable modes. To further enhance handling, the Mazdaspeed 6 has improved body rigidity, a stiffer suspension and larger brakes.
The sporty new 6 has distinctive exterior lines that incorporate its turbocharged engine and intercooler through the use of a raised hood and a five-point upper grille section that serves as the air intake. Flared side skirts flank unique 18-inch aluminum wheels while the rear bumper houses an integrated dual exhaust tailpipe and a rear lip spoiler.
Inside the cabin, the Mazdaspeed 6 adds several performance details including a revised speedometer, a custom six-speed manual transmission shift knob and sport seats with greater side support.
What's Edmunds Take?
Given that the Mazda 6 is already one of the best handling midsize sedans on the market, the Mazdaspeed version promises to be a real sleeper. Going with a turbocharged four-cylinder in place of a big-bore V6 might be a bit of a risk, but Mazda's reputation as a builder of cars that are a little different than its mainstream competitors makes it seem like a perfect fit. — Kelly Toepke
Add A Comment »