Mazda says its redesigned 2018 Mazda6 sedan will have an upgraded engine, a new chassis providing a better ride, new interior and new top-of-the-line Signature trim when it arrives in U.S. showrooms next spring.
The Japanese automaker unveiled its 2018 Mazda6 flagship midsize sedan at the 2017 Los Angeles Auto Show. Featuring a new grille, the car’s looks are centered on a “Mature Elegance” theme that builds on Mazda’s Kodo-Soul of Motion design language. Standard LED headlights and paint that extends lower in the fascia than in past models also dress the front of the car. The 2018 Mazda6 also has new 17-inch and 19-inch wheel designs and the Soul Red Crystal paint color is now available.
The interior is nearly all-new, with the exception of a carryover steering wheel and some trim pieces. The 2018 Mazda6 features a stretched dash, plus new, wider front seats that were designed to keep spines in the natural S-shape position people have when standing. Back seats also were designed to be more comfortable and ventilated front seats also are available — a first application for the brand.
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New trim level
The 2018 Mazda6 lineup will feature a new the Signature model, a trim that has sold more than double what was predicted on the 3-row CX-9 crossover. The Signature trimmed interior on the Mazda6 includes materials used on the doors, seats and dash that were inspired by Japanese culture. They include brown Nappa leather colored to resemble wood in Japanese temples; UltraSuede fabric with a gold tint that is similar to a technique used to make certain kimonos, and Sen wood accents. Sen wood is used to make taiko drums and Japanese furniture.
The 2018 Mazda6 also has new available technology including a 360-degree view monitor; 7-inch, reconfigurable gauge display on higher trims; new 8-inch Mazda Connect infotainment display; full-speed Radar Cruise Control with stop and go capability; windshield wiper de-icer and heads-up windshield display.
“In pursuit of premium, an engine isn’t enough. A chassis isn’t enough. An elegant interior and world-renowned design aren’t enough. Refinement and technology aren’t enough,” Mazda said in a statement. “But together, they complete what Mazda expects to be yet another step to elevate the brand beyond the realm of mainstream vehicles, offering a ‘Mazda Premium’ experience that will delight customers.”
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New turbo engine
The Mazda6 Signature trim includes the Skyactiv-G 2.5T gasoline turbo 4-cylinder engine producing 310 lb-ft of torque and 250 horsepower when using 93-octane fuel. Mazda matches that engine to a standard 6-speed automatic transmission. The 2018 Mazda6 will continue to offer a manual transmission as well as the automatic on the normally aspirated 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder engine. That engine also can shut down two of four cylinders when not needed to save fuel.
Pricing for the 2018 Mazda6 will be announced closer to the car’s on-sale date next year. The current Mazda6 starts at $21,945 for the base Sport manual model, plus a $875 destination fee.
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