Mazda engineers continue the development of the next generation “6” sedan’s chassis and mechanical hardware under the cloak of the existing model’s body panels, albeit in modified form as you can see from the wheel arch extensions on this prototype that our spies snapped in Europe.
If you’re wondering what the new Mazda6 will look like, then all you have to do is take a gander at the photos of the swooping Takeri concept car displayed at the last November’s 2011 Tokyo Motor Show.
The handsome study with its voluptuous curves generally received praise for its design. Hopefully, the production Mazda6, which is due sometime in 2013, won’t stray too far away from the original concept.
The new model’s more colorful design is only one piece of the pie as the next Mazda6 will be the Japanese firm’s second production vehicle after the CX-5 CUV to employ Mazda’s Skyactiv program to its full extent.
As a result, the new Mazda6 is expected to be as much as 100kg (220 pounds) lighter than the current version, with most savings coming from the new chassis and mechanical components as well as the bonding techniques.
The Mazda6 will debut in most international markets with the automaker’s latest SKYACTIV powertrains including a 2.0-liter gasoline engine and a 2.2-liter diesel with a two-stage turbocharger, coupled to six-speed manual or automatic transmissions. A diesel model is expected to be offered in the States as well.
Photo Credits: CarPix
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