2008 Mazda 6 Details and Specifications

The new second generation Mazda 6 was displayed at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show, and is now larger yet more aerodynamic than it’s predecessor that pioneered Mazda’s new Zoom-Zoom philosophy, with over 440,000 units registered in Europe so far.

The new Mazda 6 is 65mm longer, 15mm wider, 5mm taller and 50mm longer wheelbase than the first generation model. It debuts with a four engine line-up: a 120hp 1.8 liter petrol, a 147hp 2.0 liter petrol, a 170hp 2.5 liter petrol and finally a 2.0 liter turbodiesel making 140hp. The new 2.5 liter unit has been developed from the first generation’s 2.3 liter unit, with a bigger bore and longer stroke contributing to it’s increased displacement. Intake and exhaust ports have also been redesigned to be more free-flowing. Mazda engineers also focused on reducing vibration and noise levels via the use of a dual-mass damper and a flexible flywheel. Piston and conrod weight has also been reduced.

Despite being larger and slightly bulkier-looking than the previous generation, the new Mazda 6 is more aerodynamic than it’s predecessor with a drag coefficient of 0.27Cd compared to 0.30Cd for the sedan and liftback, and 0.28Cd down from 0.32Cd for the estate body variant. The steering rack uses an electric power steering with a brushless motor, improving fuel economy by approximately 2% compared to a conventional hydraulic power steering setup used by the first generation Mazda 6.

Other than the obvious new interior design, there are a few improvements in interior aesthetics. The steering wheel angle is now set at 21 degrees which is a more upright position compared to the previous model. Little things like this enhance a driver’s sense of unity with the vehicle. An advanced welcome mode turns on the panel lights in order of precedence, from lower to upper, giving the driver the impression that the car is waking up and getting ready to go. The front center armrest has an adjustable front-back mechanism to suit the driver’s elbow position.