Mazda has announced UK pricing and specification for updated versions of its Mazda 6 model, which goes on sale this summer. It features an upgraded cabin, mildly-revised styling, a new petrol engine and an upgraded diesel engine.
Priced from £23,045 to £32,795, the range features 24 models across four trim levels: SE-L Nav+, SE-L LUX Nav+, Sport Nav+ and GT Sport Nav+.
Matched exclusively to the range-topping GT Sport Nav+ trim is Mazda’s new 2.5-litre SkyActiv-G engine, making its UK debut and paired with a six-speed automatic gearbox. With a cylinder deactivation system, this direct-injection four-cylinder engine switches between four and two-cylinder operation to improve fuel economy in light use without affecting performance when required.
The 2018 model year visual changes include a fresh frontal design focused around a new grille, which has its mesh positioned deeper within the surround. Revised LED headlamps include the wingtip motif from the grille surround, and the front fog lights are now incorporated into the headlight cluster. As a result, the lower bumper has been redesigned for improved aerodynamics.
At the rear, the saloon has a remodelled boot lid, while both the saloon and estate feature cleaner rear bumper styling. Topping off the styling updates are new alloy wheel designs and the introduction of the Soul Red Crystal paint colour that has been popular in other Mazda models.
Inside, highlights include a larger eight-inch centre display screen, a seven-inch screen in the driver’s instrument binnacle and the adoption of a full-colour head-up display. The dashboard and door trims have been redesigned, seat comfort has been improved and the top-spec GT Sport Nav+ features more luxurious materials such as Sen woodgrain trim, brown Nappa leather and suede.
In addition to the new 2.5-litre SkyActiv-G petrol engine, the 2.0-litre SkyActiv-G version has been enhanced with new intake ports, new pistons and revised fuel injection and cooling. For diesel drivers, the 2.2-litre SkyActiv-D diesel engine now produces 184hp (up from 175hp) in its highest state of tune.
The new Mazda 6 also benefits from suspension fine-tuning for improved ride, handling and steering characteristics.
With an increase in standard active safety equipment across the range, all models now feature a range of advanced technology including blind-spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist and autonomous emergency braking.
