Since 2002, the Mazda 6 came with a front-wheel-drive layout throughout four generations of existence, in our market at least. All-wheel-drive was an option on overseas versions of the midsize sedan until 2012.
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Now, a new report from Car and Driver points at rear-wheel-drive making an appearance on the next-generation Mazda 6.
The claim is based on a supposed new platform doing away with the usual transverse layout in favor of a longitudinal engine mounting, with a driveshaft spinning the rear wheels.
What’s interesting about the new platform, however, is that Mazda intends to pair it with an inline-6 powerplant (in the guise of a SkyActiv X using compression ignition), hinted at during the reveal of the Vision Coupe at the Tokyo Motor Show in 2017.
For the next-gen Mazda 6, a rumored 48-volt hybrid system enables it to generate up to 350 hp.
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The current Mazda 6 only comes in front-wheel-drive
A new platform with an inline-6 engine was already hinted at with the Vision Coupe Concept
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Automakers have been outfitting their passenger cars with front-wheel-drive to reduce costs, increase interior space, and provide better traction.
In going for the opposite end of the scale with rear-wheel-drive, Mazda seems to be eyeing a more performance-oriented Mazda 6, banking on better acceleration and balanced weight distribution, as well as eliminating torque steer.
A rear-wheel-drive Mazda 6 may sound surprising, but it’s important to note that the current version is based on the Shinari concept car introduced a decade ago, which was already engineered to provide rear-wheel-drive functionality.
Mazda's Shinari Concept in 2010 also marked the debut of its Kodo design language
As the new model is reportedly scheduled for a 2022 release, nothing is set in stone at this point and anything can still happen. Think about it, though: is a rear-wheel-drive Mazda6 something that tickles your fancy?
Visit Philkotse.com for more industry updates.
Know more about Mazda 6 2024
The Mazda6 Philippines is the Japanese marque's entry into the midsize sedan market. It is available in two variants, which are both priced at Php 2,250,000. Under the hood, the sedan has two engine options, namely the 2.5-liter SkyActiv-G (gasoline) turbo and 2.2-liter SkyActiv-D (diesel) engines. With the gas power unit, the vehicle makes 228 horsepower and 420 Nm of torque. Meanwhile, the diesel mill generates 187 horsepower and 450 Nm of torque. As standard, the engines can only be paired with a 6-speed SkyActiv-Drive (automatic) transmission.
Dimensions-wise, the Mazda6 has a length of 4,870 mm, a width of 1,840 mm, and a height of 1,450 mm. Moreover, it comes with a wheelbase of 2,830 mm. In the Philippines, this Japanese midsize sedan goes up against the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord.
₱ 2,250,000
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