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First Look: 2009 Mazda6

It's a pretty well established fact that the Mazda6 is going to be updated thisyear, but now we're getting the first official glimpse of it. Using the new styling language that debuted on the Mazda2 subcompact, the 6 gains curves and a few Mazda traditions like a clamshell hood and slightly pontooned fenders. We'll need to see the rest of the vehicle before we form our final judgment, but so far, so good. Mazda also hopes to take the interaction between man and machine deeper than before, in a concept called, “Kizuna”. We suppose it's a little different than the “Ittai Jinbai” (rider and horse) principle behind the MX-5 roadster, but knowing Mazda's dedication to

The 6 trades in some of its angles for new curves. Looks good, doesn't it? (Photo: Mazda)

handling, this new 6 should be a fantastic drive.

The new Mazda6 is predicted to ride on the EU-CD platform developed by Volvo and used within the Ford-PAG range, though it will be longer, wider and more rakish than its closest platformmate, the Ford Mondeo. Technically speaking, this means that the Mazda6 will fall into the same category as the Volvo S80/V70/XC60, Land Rover LR2, and Ford S-Max/Galaxy/Mondeo. It will utilize different engines though; expect to see our

In the meantime, it's curtains for the Mazda6 wagon. Shame as it's such a great family hauler. (Photo: Mazda)

North American models feature the 2.3-liter MZR inline-four, as well as a new V6 engine, most likely the Ford-derived 3.5-liter unit currently found in the CX-9. European models will also receive a brand new twin-turbocharged 173-hp, 272 lb-ft of torque twin-turbo 2.2-liter diesel engine as well as other small inline-four powerplants. The car will be launched at this year's Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

Seeing as the new Mazda6 won't be arriving until the 2009 model year, it's worth noting that there have been some changes to the regular,2008 model year Mazda6. Equipment levels have been changed around, and some new colors have been added, but the biggest changes

Mazdaspeed6 will be killed off this year, but should make a return in the new body style. (Photo: Mazda)

to the brand will be the departure of two of its more unique models, namely the 6 SportWagon and its outrageous, high-performance sibling, the Mazdaspeed6. Still, that leaves two models of 6 for people to pony up and buy, the regular Mazda6 sedan and the Mazda6 Sport, the five-door hatchback variant.

Hopefully both of these models will make a return on the new Mazda6. The Wagon is a no-brainer internationally, as mid-sized wagons are strong sellers, but there's a question mark as to its success here in North America. We also believe that the Mazdaspeed6 will come back as well; its intriguing blend of turbocharged, all-wheel drive performance gave buyers of Subaru and Audi products a new choice. We'd like to see it return with an updated version of the 2.3-liter DISI turbocharged I-4 engine, but a turbocharged V6 engine or something of the sort would be more than acceptable!

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