Third-Generation Mazda6 Debuts

Mazda Motor Corp. tapped the Moscow auto show this week to unveil its completely redesigned Mazda6 sedan. The new car is larger, lighter and more efficient than the five-year-old second-generation vehicle it replaces.

The new model is a production version of the Takeri concept car Mazda unveiled at last year's Tokyo auto show. The highly styled car features Mazda's Kodu "soul of motion" design language and a claimed segment-best drag coefficient of 0.26.

The new Mazda6 will be offered with a choice of two four-cylinder engines: a 2.0-liter mill that makes 147 hp and 155 lb-ft of torque and a 2.5-liter unit that generates 189 hp and 189 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual gearbox is available with the smaller engine, and both powerplants offer an eight-speed automatic.

The new sedan debuts i-Eloop, Mazda's regenerative braking system that collects and stores electricity in a large capacitor whenever the accelerator is released. The power can then be used to help operate such electrical components as the fuel pump and engine control unit, thus freeing the engine from that task. Mazda says the feature can improve fuel economy as much as 10% during stop-and-go driving conditions.

The car uses Mazda's Skyactiv chassis configuration front struts and a rear multi-link suspension and rides on 19-inch wheels. Electric power steering assist is standard. Mazda says an expanded use of ultra-high-strength steel improves the body's torsional rigidity by about 30%.

Mazda pushed the front axle line of the new car forward four inches to reduce front overhang and improve interior roominess. The rear deck is shorter than the previous model. Inside, front-seat shoulder room has improved by 0.75 of an inch and rear seat knee clearance gains 1.7 inches.

The new Mazda6 went into production earlier this month at Mazda's assembly complex in Hofu, Japan, at a planned annual rate of 120,000 units. The car goes on sale in Japan and Europe later this year and in the U.S. in early 2013.