It?s been a while since we last checked on the next-generation Mazda6, and from these spy shots, it appears that the sedan is growing markedly, and nearly production-ready.
Mazda?s bread-and-butter sedan picks up a decidedly Nissan Altima-esque exterior (no bad thing), and it?s expected to ride on an amended version of the CD3 platform known as CD3-2. According to Brenda Priddy & Co., the platform will be shared with the forbidden-fruit Ford Mondeo.
Expected later this year as a 2008 model, both four- and six-cylinder powerplants (the latter appears to be what is depicted in these shots) should be made available, as well as front- and all-wheel drive variants. Mazdaspeed and hybrid variants are also in the cards, reports Priddy.
Us? We just dig the hip new spy cladding (?Now in fashion colors and patterns!?) that Mazda?s engineers are employing on these prototypes.
A year ago we brought you pictures of Mazda 6 test mules, but this batch are real prototypes and it?s obvious that the all-new Mazda 6 is quickly approaching production.
Based on a modified CD3 platform - known as CD3-2 - the new Mazda 6 will be sharing its platform with the European Ford Mondeo, as well as the Fusion and its siblings.
We?re expecting the all-new Mazda 6 to arrive in time for the 2008 model year, although it will likely reach dealership late in 2007. It?s expected to measure-in about 2-inches longer (with a 2-inch longer wheelbase) and a tad bit wider. Sources tell us to expect it to be powered by Ford?s 3.5-liter V6, as well a 180-horsepower 4-cylinder powerplant, and all-wheel-drive will be offered as an option. A hybrid, as well as a Mazdaspeed version, will eventually follow.
http://news.windingroad.com/body-stylesmarket-segment/sedans/spotted-near-production-mazda6-sedan/
