The HVS is the same...
The HVS is the same size as Mazda"s MX-5, and uses a new 1.5-litre engine - made possible by the end of an agreement with parent firm Toyota which limited Daihatsu to using units with capacities no bigger than 1.3 litres. It"s mated to three electric motors, and the maker claims 2.0-litre performance with 1.0-litre economy and 70mpg as a result.
With styling inspired...
With styling inspired by the Mazda RX-8, and a chassis built around the same blocks that will underpin the next-generation Ford Mondeo, the car promises class-leading driving dynamics and a spacious, upmarket interior.
Set to go on sale in 2008, the new 6 will be available as a hatchback and an estate, and be much bigger than the car it replaces. A fresh range of engines is also being developed, and will include a powerful 180bhp 2.0-litre-plus diesel, as well as 1.8, 2.0 and 2.5-litre petrol units.
There will be a choice of a six-speed manual or six-ratio automatic transmission. And standard variants will feed power to the front wheels, although a four-wheel-drive edition is also currently under development.
Likely to cost from ÷£16,000, the new Mazda is seen as an alternative to the VW Passat and Honda Accord, and shows the firm"s commitment to continue building traditional family cars, despite the sector"s declining sales.