Mazda 6 update teased ahead of LA reveal

Ahead of an adoption of the company’s SkyActiv-X compression ignition technology and the next generation Mazda 3 that it will debut in, the third update for the current generation of Mazda 6 has been teased ahead of its debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show in December.

Not a full generational change, the third and final facelift for this generation Mazda 6 will incorporate a new look, new interior and even some mechanical changes, with cylinder deactivation for the current SkyActiv 2.5-litre petrol four and finally, the adoption of the turbocharged 2.5-litre four in the CX-9 SUV.

Releasing just two teaser images to worldwide media, the updates to the Mazda 6’s exterior are plain to see with a new headlight and five-point grille design taken from the new CX-5, a new wheel design and a refreshed front bumper. Added chrome and a mesh grille give the 6 a more upmarket flavour, whilst Mazda’s new hero colour Soul Red Crystal makes its debut on the 6.

The interior layout appears to be different to the current Mazda 6, and whilst the small 7-inch touchscreen system still sits atop the dashboard, the lower dashboard and HVAC controls are completely new, this time incorporating ventilated seat controls. The dashboard pictured also features Japanese Sen wood inserts at the higher specs in the range, and even stitched leather on the dashboard. The Mazda 6 update will also include greater levels of technology, including a 360-degree parking camera and radar cruise control with stop&go functionality.

Above: the Mazda 3-previewing Kai Concept from Tokyo 2017.

Aside from a slight redesign, the biggest news with the updated Mazda 6 is under the bonnet as cylinder deactivation technology for the engines have been adopted to help save fuel, and should help the fuel sticker slightly. Otherwise, Mazda have finally given the 6 the 2.5-litre turbocharged petrol four from the CX-9 to lure buyers after a sportier 6. Outputs are yet to be confirmed, but in the CX-9 the engine produces 170kW of power (186kW on higher grade fuel) and 420Nm of torque – figures unlikely to change for the 6, though considering the high torque for the CX-9’s likely urban driving, it could be possible.

The updated Mazda 6 range is due to launch in Australia in early 2018, with the turbo donk likely to be featured as standard on higher-end GT and Atenza grades. The 2.5-litre petrol four and 2.2-litre turbo diesel are also likely continue into the upgrade. The updated Mazda 6 is the first product in a long line of updates from Mazda, with an all-new Mazda 3 to be revealed next year, with an all-new Mazda 6 and Mazda 2 being released not far after that. A Mazda electric car is likely to be released before 2020 as well,