Mazda 6 Sky-D
We get an early glimpse of the family car's eco-friendly future
This early prototype can’t give us a complete picture of what the next 6 will be like to drive, but it’s very promising. The refined turbo offers low emissions with no compromise on performance, while a supple chassis and light body keep driving pleasure high up the agenda. If it delivers in its finished form, the Mazda should be a class leader.
The sky really is the limit at Mazda! The Japanese brand has ambitious plans – and Auto Express has sampled them in this prototype 6, which features a new 2.2-litre SKY-D diesel engine and revised chassis.
These updates will appear in the next family saloon, due on sale in 2012. When that arrives, it will boast a striking design based on the Shinari concept. But for now, the new kit doesn’t quite fit under the old body – hence the rivets holding the front together.
Video: watch CarBuyer's video review of the Mazda 6
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Mazda’s aim with SKY is to improve the efficiency of petrol and diesel engines, without the need to fit expensive new parts or electric motors. So, engineers have stripped 25kg from the new oil-burner, using a low 14:1 compression ratio that reduces friction, allowing lighter materials to be incorporated.
The rev range has been extended to 5,200rpm, and the wide torque band means power delivery is linear and smooth. With a muscular 420Nm on tap, progress is swift – but despite the increased grunt, the engine is cleaner and greener than before. Fuel economy is up by 20 per cent to around 63mpg, and the car emits an impressively low 105g/km of CO2.
The SKY engine is mated to a new six-speed automatic gearbox – which Mazda claims combines the smoothness of a CVT with the quick responses of the latest dual-clutch boxes. Changes are crisp and instant, but it can kick down too eagerly.
What’s more, the chassis is lighter and stiffer than before, and the ride is comfortable. High-speed stability is also superb – all the way up to 125mph on our derestricted test route.
Exterior and interior designs have yet to be finalised, but the new 6 is likely to feature a sleek coupé-like body and high-quality finish inside. If all the ingredients come together, Mazda could have one of the most desirable family cars on the market.
