Next-gen 2020 Mazda 6 rendered and it looks ace

With the debut of the new-generation Mazda 3 late last year, the focus is now on the replacement model for the company’s other passenger car – the Mazda 6.

The current generation model was launched way back in 2012, and a new model is well overdue. Before Mazda has the chance to tease us with the new 6, Japanese publication Clicccar is giving us a very tasty look at the upcoming Mazda mid-size sedan.

There’s no better word for it. Clicccar’s envision of the new Mazda 6 is simply stunning. The fresh interpretation of Mazda’s Kodo design language starts with a low and wide new grille that peels back into the restyled headlights. The fascia leads to a heavily sculpted body emphasized by pronounced wheel arches.

Sitting low and hunkered down on flush fitting wheels, the Mazda 6 evolves into a more premium and sporty product. But two things are obvious from the rendering: the front overhang is short and there looks to be a bit of a haunch in the rear.

Are we looking at the first ever rear-wheel drive Mazda 6?

Word on the street is that the new model will share a new platform that will also underpin the long-rumoured RX-9 sports car. Since the rotary sports car will be front engine and rear-wheel drive, the Mazda 6 will also adopt the same configuration.

Mazda’s ongoing push toward upmarket is also another contributing factor for switching to rear drive, as a sporty rear-wheel drive mid-size sedan is seen as a good way to elevate Mazda’s brand image.

Engine options for the new 6 are expected to include the 2.5-litre turbo petrol unit currently used in the CX-5 and CX-9 SUVs as well as an all-new twin turbo and electric supercharged 6-cylinder diesel engine good for around 220kW.

Validity of these speculations and renderings aside, one thing is certain: the next-gen 2020 Mazda 6 is going to be very interesting.

• READ MORE: Mazda6 GT 2.5T Review
• READ MORE: 2022 Mazda 6 to become rear-wheel drive luxury sedan

Source: Clicccar