The second-generation Mazda 6 was launched in November 2007 and represented an evolution of Mazda Zoom-Zoom. It set a new standard in the non-premium CD segment for its combination of eye-catching stylishness, exclusive driving experience and insightful packaging, all offered in three distinct body styles. Since launch, it has found over 85,000 owners in Europe and has been contributing to Mazda Motor Europe's record sales in 2008. Now the Mazda 6 is about to get even more popular with the introduction of a new Mazda-developed 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine that is one of the quietest and most powerful in its segment and a new rear vehicle monitoring system for more active safety.
Mazda 6 has always been a driver's car and with the launch of the new-generation model last year, the fun factor was improved even further. The second-generation Mazda 6 was introduced originally with four different engines - three lively MZR petrol engines (in 2.5, 2.0 and 1.8-litre displacements) delivering power between 170 PS to 120 PS, and a MZR-CD 2.0-litre common-rail turbo diesel producing 140 PS and 330 Nm of torque. Mazda now introduces a new clean turbo diesel in three power derivatives that is one of the quietest and most powerful in its class.
Delivering the Power - Output and TorqueTo realise this kind of power and torque with 2.2-litres of displacement, the MZR-CD 2.2 employs a highly efficient variable-geometry turbo charger (VGT) with curved (instead of straight) vanes on the turbine (exhaust) side. This increases maximum available torque at both low and high engine speeds, while also increasing all-important low- end response (as low as only 1,800 rpm with a lat maximum torque curve that continues until 3,000 rpm) that contributes smooth and powerful driving feel. When combined with an abradable seal on the compressor side (intake side), which reduces the clearance between the blade and the compressor housing, these deliver superior turbocharger response at just about all engine speeds.
Converting the engine's combustion energy into this much engine torque meant the pistons had to be designed to take the resulting high combustion pressure and temperatures. As a consequence, the pistons are made of an aluminium alloy with improved high- temperature fatigue strength. A half-Keystone cross-section top- ring with improved carbon scavenging abilities is used, and the groove for the top ring is made more durable with the adoption of a cooled ring carrier that increases the groove's cooling capability.
Mazda engineers also increased the fuel injection pressure to 200 MPa (by comparison, the previous generation MZR-CD 2.0- litre turbo diesel uses 180 MPa). They realised this by making functional improvements to the high-pressure pump, among other improvements, and by new injectors featuring 10 spray holes per injector (instead of the 6 spray holes for the MZR-CD 2.0-litre) that are smaller (reduced from 0.13 mm to just 0.119 mm). These changes enable more precise injection timing, and an increase in the number of times of injection and injection amount. And it allowed the fuel injection patterns at transitional states to be more precisely controlled. As a result, the Mazda 6 MZR-CD 2.2 provides superior acceleration in those situations you need it most, like entering the motorway. It also surpasses its competitors in lower speed acceleration. Acceleration in 3rd gear from 50 to 100 km/h, for example, is 1.7 seconds faster than the MZR-CD 2.0-litre.
Low Fuel ConsumptionThis new diesel engine also meets the requirements of Mazda's 'Sustainable Zoom-Zoom' plan by being frugal at the pump: all power derivatives use between 5.5 and 5.7 litres of fuel per 100 km (combined), some of the segment's lowest.
New injector with 10 spray holesIt achieves this by employing highly responsive solenoids for the common-rail injection system that achieve a minimum injection interval of just 0.2 ms (the MZR-CD 2.0 is 0.3 ms), which speeds up the minimum injection interval by about 30 percent, improves its responsiveness and lowers fuel usage. Fuel is also saved by lowering the compression ratio to 16.3:1 and utilizing the temperature cooling effect this causes, which secures more mixing time until ignition, and allows a more precise fuel-injection pattern. As a result, fuel consumption is a low 5.5 to 5.7 litres (depending on derivative) with CO 2 emissions from between 147 to 152 g/km. In fact, the MZR- CD 2.2-litre offers substantially higher power and torque than the previous-generation MZR-CD 2.0-litre, while delivering equal levels of fuel consumption and CO 2 emissions.
Low Emissions - Particulate Filter with World's First Ceramic Support Matrix StructureMazda engineers not only made the new 2.2-litre turbo diesel powerful and low consumption, they also lowered the amount of raw emissions and raised the efficiency of its after-treatment technologies. The engine's highly responsive fuel-injection technologies have new injectors (see above) that yield better atomized spray characteristics. These are combined with an exhaust-gas recirculation (EGR) system with a cooler bypass structure - that decreases unburned gases and NOx - and the high- response solenoids described above, to realise superior emissions performance without sacrificing power.
Emissions are then treated by a diesel particulate filter that uses a unique Mazda-developed, ceramic support matrix structure, which is the first of its kind to go into production in the world. Previous diesel particulate filters converted particulate matter (PM) into CO 2 by reacting the PM with the oxygen in the exhaust gas at the surface of the catalytic particle. This meant that the time needed for filter regeneration was determined by the amount of oxygen on the surface of the catalyst.
When the temperature of the exhaust gas is raised to quicken the regeneration time, then technological issues - like higher fuel usage or the ceramics exceeding their thermal resistance limit - can occur. Mazda solved these issues by using highly thermal resistant material for the ceramic monolith of its new diesel particulate filter, and designing the internal structure of the ceramic support matrix with passages for oxygen to enable a large amount of oxygen to be utilized for PM combustion. With this, Mazda has succeeded in significantly increasing the PM combustion speed. As a result, the number of times the diesel particulate filter has to regenerate (in combined mode) is cut in half, and the time necessary for each regeneration phase is shortened by one third. For owners of the new Mazda 6 MZR-CD 2.2-litre turbo diesel, this means worry-free filter regeneration and, because fewer regeneration phases are required and each takes less time, less fuel consumption overall.
Running QuietThe new Mazda 6 MZR-CD 2.2-litre common-rail not only offers superior output, fuel economy and emissions performance, it is also one of the quietest engines in its segment with this amount of torque. This ensures a driving experience that is one of the non- premium segment's most exclusive. To achieve this, the new engine has a lower block with a very rigid aluminium-alloy structure, with the bottom of the cylinder block skirt and the cylinder block's main bearing caps bolted to the lower block at 18 separate locations. This high structural rigidity is combined with a front chain-driven cassette-type balancer shaft to suppress booming noise and lower radiated noise, and to deliver optimised pedal response and engine sound for a reined acceleration feel.
Packaging and Weight ManagementKeeping the new MZR-CD 2.2-litre engine as close as possible in size and weight to that of the MZR-CD 2.0-litre diesel was a key factor in ensuring exhilarating performance combined with fuel efficiency and low emissions. Some of the newly adopted technologies, such as the balancer shaft and DOHC, result in increased size and weight. Nonetheless, numerous innovations were added to manage size and weight increases, with the goal of maintaining packaging and keeping the weight increase within just 6.0 kg of the previous MZR- CD 2.0-litre turbo diesel.
Due to the increase in displacement, the stroke of the MZR-CD 2.2 was lengthened by 8 mm compared to the MZR-CD 2.0. At the same time, the overall length of the connecting rods was shortened by optimizing their design. As a result, their weight remains at the same level as in the MZR-CD 2.0. The adoption of a balancer shaft that decreases vibration caused by reciprocating motion made a thinner cylinder block with fewer ribs possible (if the MZR-CD 2.2 had no balancer shaft, the cylinder block would have been 1.9 kg heavier than that of MZR-CD 2.0, and its crankshaft 1.3 kg heavier.). Furthermore, decrease in size and weight was achieved by making the balancer housing, oil pump housing, and the oil suction pipe a single structure. To achieve even more weight reduction, while increasing the cooling capability of the new engine, the oil cooler is made of aluminium (-0.6 kg). The weight of the cam cover is also reduced by making it out of plastic (-1.0 kg).
Packaging and Weight ManagementKeeping the new MZR-CD 2.2-litre engine as close as possible in size and weight to that of the MZR-CD 2.0-litre diesel was a key factor in ensuring exhilarating performance combined with fuel efficiency and low emissions. Some of the newly adopted technologies, such as the balancer shaft and DOHC, result in increased size and weight. Nonetheless, numerous innovations were added to manage size and weight increases, with the goal of maintaining packaging and keeping the weight increase within just 6.0 kg of the previous MZR- CD 2.0-litre turbo diesel.
Due to the increase in displacement, the stroke of the MZR-CD 2.2 was lengthened by 8 mm compared to the MZR-CD 2.0. At the same time, the overall length of the connecting rods was shortened by optimizing their design. As a result, their weight remains at the same level as in the MZR-CD 2.0. The adoption of a balancer shaft that decreases vibration caused by reciprocating motion made a thinner cylinder block with fewer ribs possible (if the MZR-CD 2.2 had no balancer shaft, the cylinder block would have been 1.9 kg heavier than that of MZR-CD 2.0, and its crankshaft 1.3 kg heavier.). Furthermore, decrease in size and weight was achieved by making the balancer housing, oil pump housing, and the oil suction pipe a single structure. To achieve even more weight reduction, while increasing the cooling capability of the new engine, the oil cooler is made of aluminium (-0.6 kg). The weight of the cam cover is also reduced by making it out of plastic (-1.0 kg).
Mazda 6 - the first Mazda with Rear Vehicle Monitoring SystemNot only does the Mazda 6 2.2-litre diesel meet the requirements of Mazda's 'Sustainable Zoom-Zoom' strategy by delivering high power and torque with low consumption, it also meets the strategy's focus on improved safety by introducing a new vehicle monitoring system to the line-up as an enhancement to its already long list of active safety features. Employing two wide-angle, 24 GHz microwave radar units on the right and left side of the rear bumper, this system is a fully independent active safety feature that detects and warns the driver of an approaching vehicle - when driving at speeds over 60 kilometers per hour - before he has a chance to change lanes by mistake. It also detects vehicles driving in the blind spot area, and is effective even in bad weather conditions.
Warns You if a Car approaches from the Left or Right RearThe two radar units are positioned to face outwards from the vehicle's centre line to cover the left and right lanes at the back of the car within a range of about 50 m. These radar units emit microwaves, which reflect off a following vehicle - including smaller vehicles like motorcycles - and are picked up again by the radar units in the bumper.
The Mazda 6 system is outfitted with two 'proximity indicator lights' placed in the inner garnish sails at the base of each A-pillar. These illuminate on the side where a car is detected approaching from behind. They blink (together with a beep sound) if the driver switches on the turn signal in the direction of the busy lane.
The system recognises the lanes on each side of the car independently or both at the same time when the lanes are full. It does not detect cars behind in the same lane.
Warns You before Changing LanesIf the system detects a car that is approximately 5 seconds away from reaching the Mazda 6, it illuminates the proximity indicator light to warn the driver. If the approaching vehicle passes at a high speed, the proximity indicator will stay illuminated the entire time. Once the approaching vehicle completely passes the Mazda 6 equipped with rear vehicle monitoring system, the light will turn off again.
If the driver switches on the turn signal in the direction of the approaching vehicle before it completely passes, the proximity light will blink and a beep sound will warn the driver not to change lanes.
Design - Japanese Aesthetics in Three Distinct Body StylesThe Mazda 6's athletic, sophisticated exterior design and high levels of build quality has been turning heads all over Europe since launch last year. Its exquisite sense of form based on Japanese aesthetics gives it a unique road presence that is distinctly Mazda.
The hatchback version is 4,735 mm long, 1,795 mm wide and 1,440 mm high and the sportiest-looking of the three versions with a sleek roofline at the C-pillar for a coupe-like image. The Mazda 6 Wagon is 4,765 mm long, 1,795 mm wide and 1,490 mm high and the longest of the three models, with a distinctive kick-up belt line and sleek windows for a cut through the wind look. And the Mazda 6 Sedan has the same exterior dimensions as the hatchback and offers customers the four-door + boot look of stylish quality and sophistication.
The dynamic and sleek exterior design of the Mazda 6 also makes it one of the segment's most aerodynamic vehicles. All external components were streamlined to produce a coefficient of drag (Cd) of only 0.27 (sedan and hatchback) and just 0.28 (wagon), which contributes to stability at high speeds and an overall lowering of fuel consumption.
On the inside, Mazda 6 was designed to take full advantage of the car's great looks, high quality and fun-to-drive character by delivering what engineers termed 'Kizuna,' or a strong emotional bond between the car and its owner. Its wrap-around cockpit allows the driver to feel one with the car, and to fully enjoy an exquisite driving experience not usually found on cars in this class. The inside is not only attractive and roomy, with a floating-look dashboard that makes the inside seem even larger, it also has the highest levels of interior craftsmanship ever on a Mazda vehicle. This quality is underscored by interior forms that are appealing to look at and use on a daily basis.
Space, Comfort & Equipment - Easy to Use and PracticalThough sporty-looking and sleek on the outside, the Mazda 6 still provides more than enough family-sized space and practicality on the inside, which is especially important to CD segment customers. Compared to the previous model, the second-generation Mazda 6 has 20 mm more rear leg room and 9 mm more rear shoulder room, which translates into more comfort precisely where it is needed - in the back seats. Customers also like the fact
that it has one of the largest forward-upward views in the segment. When combined with specially designed rear head restraints and door mirrors that give the driver a better view to the rear, the Mazda 6 is not only safer to drive, but easier to manoeuvre in tight spaces. To this it adds high levels of practicality with one of the segment's widest boot/ tailgate openings, Mazda's acclaimed Karakuri rear seat folding system that drops the 60/40 rear seats down by pulling a latch in the boot trim (hatchback and wagon), and a Karakuri tonneau cover that automatically lifts when you open and close the liftgate (wagon only).
Mazda 6 is also designed with comfort in mind. It has specially formed seat frames for good long-trip comfort that also provide side support during sportier driving. And it makes the ride comfortable whatever the weather might be with a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system that has separate temperature controls for the driver and the passenger. The cockpit is also easy on the eyes with blackout driver metres (depending on grade) with amber- red illumination circled by indirect blue lighting, a new sports car- like steering wheel and gear shift lever positions that are closer to the driver for easier control and shifting. Mazda 6 is also easy on the ears with a quiet driving experience, regardless of what engine is under the bonnet. Compared to the first-generation model, the Mazda 6 is 2.5 dB (from 70 dB to 67.5 dB) quieter when driving at 60 km/h on a coarse road (see 'Running Quiet' above for NVH measures on the new MZR-CD 2.2-litre diesel).
The new Mazda 6 has plenty of convenient storage compartments that make it practical and easy-to-use on a daily basis. For small item storage there is a large glovebox, and a large centre console box - in dimpled-finished leather with a sliding armrest with leather stitching - that has cupholders in front. There are cupholders in the fold-out centre arm rest in the rear and front door trim pockets that can hold a 1.5-litre bottle and documents. Practical as well is the car's Action Illumination system with light fade up and down, and interactive light reaction when using the CD player and radio.
Up to five grades are available (depending on market) each with a long list of equipment, some onboard a Mazda for the very first time. There is more steering wheel control functionality (audio, navigation, air-conditioning, trip computer and Bluetooth® system) than ever before - a product of using a unique cross-functional network (CF-Net). A parking sensor system is available, a navigation system featuring a touch screen, voice command and a 7-inch split display (depending on market and grade), a Bluetooth® mobile phone system with seven languages, bi-xenon head lamps, adaptive front lighting system (AFS), a tyre pressure monitoring system and even a premium BOSE® audio system with eight speakers and AudioPilot® noise-compensation technology - just to mention a few. This is on top of a choice of 12 exterior colours, leather seats and an available sunroof.
Chassis & Safety - Sporty, Predictable and SafeThe Mazda 6 took Mazda's acclaimed steering and handling attributes to the next level at launch. Not only is the Mazda 6 larger and better equipped than the previous-generation Mazda 6, it is also lighter. This is the third vehicle - after the third-generation MX-5 and the new Mazda2 - to benefit from Mazda's 'lightweight strategy' to lower weight and reduce fuel consumption. The Mazda 6 body shell has 7 percent more high and ultra-high-strength steel than the previous Mazda 6, which results in double-digit increases in both flexural and torsional rigidity for all body styles - without a gain in weight. This, along with weight savings at other locations, means today's Mazda 6 is up to 35 kg lighter than its predecessor, has better handling and fuel efficiency, and enhanced crash resistance.
The front suspension is a high-mount double wishbone system that uses two additional perimeter frame mounting points (six vs. the four on the previous Mazda 6), with dynamic dampers for the upper arms to absorb noise and vibrations, and stiff damper settings for excellent overall rigidity and ride comfort. This is combined with a single-pivot type lower arm, which gives more precise steering and predictability. Mazda's E-type multilink rear suspension is employed at the back axle with large-diameter trailing arm bushes placed 25 mm higher than those of the previous model to create a different geometry for improved rear lift control and a more linear toe-angle change during the rebound. The rear dampers are in an upright layout, which realises linear vehicle movement and a feeling of stability. Rack-drive electric power assist steering delivers a firm steering feel and contributes to lowering overall fuel consumption.
A long list of active and passive safety systems round out Mazda 6's outstanding package of attributes. Besides an all-new rear vehicle monitoring system, Mazda 6 also has an adaptive headlamp system that illuminates the curve when going around corners, Bi- xenon headlamps and a unique CF-NET, which allows minimal eye movement away from the road when using the vehicle systems. Added to this are large 299 mm ventilated front disc brakes and 280 mm rear brake discs for dependable deceleration; backed up by ABS, electronic brake distribution (EBD), brake assist, dynamic stability control (DSC) and a traction control system (TCS) as standard on all models.
