Word has it that Mazda is pulling out all the stops with its next-gen 2023 ‘6’ sedan, which will reportedly follow a BMW-like formula with a rear-wheel drive platform and a longitudinal engine layout.
According to Car & Driver, one of its engines could be an inline-six unit with Skyactiv-X technology and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, while the design will likely be a reflection of the Vision Coupe concept that made its debut three years ago in Tokyo.
The Vision Coupe was meant to represent the next evolutionary stage for Mazda’s KODO design language, and if that recent report is to be believed, the upcoming ‘6’ will uphold that by heralding a brand new era for the Japanese carmaker.
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Now, while the concept was an elegant sloped-roof sedan with a surprisingly long hood, the production 2023 Mazda6 will likely look a little more “down to Earth”, much like this rendering courtesy of Kolesa.
The designer stayed true to the new KODO aesthetic by replicating the concept’s front fascia, albeit in a more practical way. The headlights and grille are basically sharper versions of what we’d normally see on a modern-day Mazda3. Moving on towards the back we see a continuously-rising shoulder line, leading up to the Vision Concept-like taillight design.
The quad-exhaust setup and semi-ducktail boot lid spoiler make for interesting touches. In fact, the render looks more like an Alfa Romeo if you just look at it from behind, whereas the front end is 100% Mazda.
What do you think about the prospect of a rear-wheel drive Mazda6 with Vision Concept-like looks?
