Sophisticated high performance best describes the direct
injection, turbocharged Mazda 6 MPS concept car that makes its Australian debut
at the Brisbane motor show today.
Focused on delivering even more Zoom-Zoom, the Mazda 6 MPS concept boasts
enhanced driving dynamics courtesy of 206 kilowatts of power and
all-wheel-drive.
The Mazda 6 MPS concept car lines up alongside a fresh range of Mazda vehicles at
the Brisbane Motor Show that includes the updated Tribute AWD wagon and revised
Mazda 2 and Mazda 6 models. The Mazda 3 sedan and hatch range, which have been in high demand since
its launch two weeks ago, is also showcased on the Mazda stand.
While the Mazda 6 MPS is just a concept it does provide some clues to
potential future models.
Mazda Motor Corporation senior managing executive officer in charge of
marketing, sales and customer relations, Stephen Odell, who was in Australia
last month, said: “Mazda should have a flavour of sports cars in everything we
do.
“In terms of out and out performance there is an opportunity for us to create
a car that is not too far removed from this concept.”
However, he stressed that any performance gains would not compromise the
class-leading ride, handling, steering and braking that Mazda offers on all its
new-generation cars.
The much praised styling of the Mazda 6 has also been enhanced with the MPS
concept, which is based on a Mazda 6 hatchback, boasting a more sporty and
aggressive appearance than the already much-admired standard car that has almost
doubled sales expectations since its launch in late 2002.
Powered by a new, direct-injection, turbocharged version of Mazda’s 2.3-litre
MZR engine, the powerplant combines low emissions and excellent fuel efficiency
with high performance.
Delivering 206kW at 6,500rpm and 360Nm of torque at 3,500rpm the Mazda 6 MPS
concept qualifies as a serious driving machine. However, the engine meets all
relevant low emission regulations including Euro IV and ULEV standards in the
USA and Japan.
To make best use of the engine’s impressive power and torque a sophisticated
traction system is employed, effortlessly transmitting the power of the Mazda 6
MPS concept car to the road.
The Mazda 6’s all-wheel-drive system, which is available in some overseas
markets, has been upgraded in the MPS concept with it gaining active torque
control. The result is an electronically controlled torque-split,
all-wheel-drive system that is capable of delivering ultimate tyre-to-road
contact at all speeds.
A torque responsive rear LSD (Limited Slip Differential) to maximise
cornering ability is also standard.
The Mazda 6 MPS concept drives through a six-speed manual transmission with
its ratios spaced to make best use of the engine’s impressive torque peak.
Appropriately for a high-performance car, the shift provides short throws for
fast, accurate gear changes.
Styled at Mazda's European R&D Center in Oberursel, Germany, the Mazda 6
MPS concept reflects sporty sophistication combined with powerful dynamism.
The front of the car features a restyled version of Mazda’s five-point
grille, as well as an air intake design similar to the one featured on the RX-8.
The larger front bumper complete with large air intakes and more aggressive rear
styling not only enhance the car’s looks but also improve its dynamic stability.
Flared wheel arches and 18-inch tyres further emphasise the car’s performance
character, while the Mazda 6’s underlying sportiness and quality are highlighted
by new, Silver Storm paint.
The fun-to-drive spirit of Zoom-Zoom culminates in the superb handling of the
Mazda 6 MPS concept car.
To best match the high engine output and traction system, the Mazda 6’s
high-mounted double wishbone front and rear multi-link suspension systems have
been fine-tuned, while suspension parts and the car’s body have been
strengthened to further improve handling and grip.
Lightweight, “spoke mesh” aluminium wheels complete with low-profile, 18-inch
tyres intensify the outstanding driving experience.
In addition to the electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system, the
Mazda 6 MPS concept car is equipped with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and ABS
anti-lock brakes.
Inside, the Mazda 6 MPS concept features high quality, fashionable black and
white leather seats as well as aluminium trim highlights.
The Mazda 6 MPS concept offers the driver a keyless entry system,
metal-textured, deep-blue instruments and an engine start button.
