Mazda 6 MPS

Also taking the stage at Geneva is the exciting new Mazda6 MPS, the top-end model of the highly successful Mazda6 range. First shown in Paris last year, and slated to go on sale in Europe in autumn, Mazda6 MPS is the best performing, best handling sedan ever built by Mazda. With a newly-developed direct- injection turbocharged 2.3-litre petrol engine, new Active Torque Split All-Wheel-Drive and upgraded chassis systems — coupled to the design sophis- tication and interior comfort the Mazda6 line up is known for —the new Mazda6 MPS is the ultimate Mazda Zoom-Zoom sedan.

2004 Mazda 6 MPS Front Angle

Exterior — Sophisticated and Dynamic

Taking as their base the Mazda6 sedan, designers enhanced even further the contours of the new Mazda6 MPS to convey the car's dynamic potential and its hug-the- road stability. Yet, typical Mazda6 design language was applied to avoid performance overstatement and to provide a mature, sophisticated look. The aerodynamic form of the front bumper and lower grille design, combined with powerful press lines running from the upper grille and over the bonnet that emphasize the length of the front end, give the car a distinct character. Combined with the raised bonnet that makes room for the car's intercooler beneath, they are subtle design cues for the high performance nature of the Mazda6 MPS.

The silhouette of the new Mazda6

MPS is characterized by flared side skirts and large, specially designed 18-inch aluminium alloy wheels with a sporty 15-spoke design, which convey strong yet sophisticated proportions. At the back of the car, the design is dominated by an aerodynamic rear bumper design that includes a built-in diffuser for the integrated double exhaust tail- pipes and a subtle rear lip spoiler. Taken together, these exterior design features lend the new Mazda6 MPS the promise of high performance without sacrificing the sophistication that characterizes the entire model line up.

Added to the total of four possible colours for the new Mazda6 MPS is a special new body colour, called Moist Silver Metallic, designed especially for the top of the line Mazda6.

Interior—Comfort and Quality Building on a cabin design that seats five in comfort and style, Mazda6 MPS designers enhanced the look and feel of the interior with high levels of craftsmanship for a greater sense of quality. Mazda6 MPS's instrument panel has subtle sporty design cues as befits a high perform- ance sedan. These include a speedo- meter up to 280 km/h, a custom-built shift lever knob and semi-bucket seats offering good side support and comfort for longer trips. These are combined with special trim materials that provide a lush appeal for high levels of craftsmanship and quality feel. The result is a Mazda6 MPS interior that is just the right combination of sportiness, sedan sophistication and comfort.

Powertrain— Outstanding Performance and Driving Fun

Building on the acclaimed dynamic attributes of the Mazda6, every aspect of Mazda6 MPS's handling, stability, engine and braking per- formance was optimized to realize the best possible balance between outstanding performance and driving pleasure. To deliver this, Mazda6 MPS comes with a newly- developed, direct-injection turbo- charged 2.3-litre petrol engine coupled to an all-new Active Torque Split All-Wheel-Drive system, stiffer body assemblies, upgraded suspension and enhanced braking performance. These all make Mazda6 MPS a true driver's car and the best-performing sedan ever built by Mazda.

Source: Mazda

Gallery: Mazda 6 MPS (2004)