2015 Mazda6 refreshed with new facelift and price drop

The 2015 Mazda6 has received a range of exterior and interior upgrades, adding to the appeal of Mazda’s flagship model.

The Mazda6 exterior, like the recently revamped Mazda CX-5, has taken the next step in its design evolution, adding an updated front end that offers a stronger look and greater flow thanks to the addition of five horizontal fins that run through to Mazda-first LED headlamps.

Including fog and rear combination LEDs and the addition of newly designed 19 inch five spoke wheels, there are two striking new colours, Sonic Silver Metallic and Titanium Flash Mica.

While the exterior changes offer a bolder and tauter design, it is the premium interior upgrades that elevate Mazda6 even further.

New Mazda6 now features MZD Connect, Mazda’s next-generation in-car connectivity system, which includes a seven inch touch screen display operated by a centrally located commander control knob, an electric park brake and Active Driving Display.

Initially revealed on Mazda3, the Active Driving Display is Mazda’s version of a Head Up Display. Mounted above the meter hood, it provides vehicle speed and other important real time driving information.

In addition, Mazda has added to its impressive array of i-ACTIVSENSE safety technologies on selected models. Adaptive LED Headlamps (ALH) improves visibility at night, Lane-keep Assist System (LAS) assists the driver to maintain their intended course, Driver Attention Alert (DAA) alerts drivers to fatigue and decreased alertness, while Smart City Brake Support (Forward/Reverse) (SCBS F/R) adds rearward detection to help reduce the likelihood of an accident. New Mazda6 also offers Smart Brake Support (SBS) and Mazda Radar Cruise Control.

Mazda6 drivers will experience the ‘Jinba Ittai’ – horse and rider as one – feeling thanks to an updated suspension system that provides a smooth, flat driving experience while settled in redesigned front and rear seats that offer a snug, comfortable fit.

NVH, a major criticism of previous Mazda models, has been improved by 10 per cent when travelling on rough roads and by approximately 25 per cent on highways. A new Drive Selection feature on petrol models allows the driver to switch modes for a more responsive driving experience.

Powertrains carried over unchanged include the 138kW/250Nm SKYACTIV-G 2.5 litre petrol and 129kW/420Nm SKYACTIV-D 2.2 litre diesel engine, both of which are mated to a SKYACTIV-Drive 6-speed automatic transmission. The new facelifted Mazda6 continues to be offered in four variants, comprising the entry level Sport, the mid-spec Touring and high grade GT and Atenza.

With prices recently dropping thanks to the Japan-Australia Free Trade Agreement, the Mazda6 Sport starts from $32,540, down $920 from its 2012 launch price.

2015 Mazda6 Australian pricing (excluding on-roads)