Mazda dealers in the UK & Europe got there first taste of the new Mazda 6 MPS at the recent launch of the all new Mazda MX-5 in Portugal.
A test track was set up at the launch and Mazda’s dealer network got to a chance to get behind the wheel of the 2.3 litre 260PS turbocharged machine which will arrive in showrooms early Janauary 2006.
Alongside the 6 MPS was an Audi A4 Turbo Quattro as a direct comparison and although both were reported as quick, one dealer at the launch said: “The MPS felt like it had more torque with slightly better acceleration. The only downside was that inside it looked pretty much like a normal road going 6.”
Powered by an all new MZR 2.3 DISI Turbo Engine, the MPS also uses an Active Torque Split All-Wheel Drive System mated to a 6-speed gearbox producing high torque (380 Nm at 3,000rpm) and superb acceleration (0 – 100 km/h in 6.6 seconds).
So it would appear Mazda see this car as a direct challenger to the Audi and BMW market, where the customer seeks a more high powered version of the everyday family saloon.