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Report: Next-Generation Mazda6 to be a four-door coupe with rear-drive and an inline-six

Nothing has been set in stone just yet, but Mazda’s recent success with their CX-60 and CX-90 could mean a possibility of reviving the Mazda6's rear-wheel drive and six-cylinder plans.

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Mazda Vision Concept

For several years, there have been persistent rumors circulating about Mazda's intentions to introduce a rear-wheel-drive version of their Mazda6 sedan thanks to the Mazda Vision Coupe concept. However, despite the ongoing speculation, Mazda continues to offer the same midsize sedan that has been a part of their lineup since 2012. This news came even after an interview in March 2022 with Joachim Kunz, the head of development and engineering for Mazda Europe, where he stated that the new platform would not be used for the next generation of the Mazda6. He also ruled out the possibility of a large sports coupe in Mazda's future plans.

Mazda Vision Concept

Kunz did express some personal interest in the idea of a sedan with rear-wheel drive and an inline-six engine, acknowledging that it would be an appealing prospect. Nevertheless, he emphasized that current market trends clearly favor SUVs and crossovers. Consequently, there was no official development of a Mazda sedan with a six-cylinder engine sending power to the rear wheels.

However, unofficially, there appears to have been a change in Mazda's stance. Reports from Japan's Best Car magazine suggest that this shift is not due to a sudden resurgence in sedan popularity but rather stems from the strong response customers have had to Mazda's new large SUVs that utilize similar hardware. The early success of models like the CX-60 and CX-90, with the CX-70 and CX-80 in the pipeline, has convinced top Mazda executives to greenlight the development of a large new sedan with rear-wheel drive or rear-biased capabilities.

It's important to approach this speculation with some skepticism, as reports from Japanese sources don't always materialize into actual products. According to Best Car, the upcoming vehicle won't be a traditional sedan but instead, a sleek four-door coupe that embodies the Jinba Ittai and Kodo Soul of Motion, representing an evolution of Mazda's existing styling direction.

One point of reassurance is Mazda's track record in creating aesthetically pleasing vehicles. The Vision Coupe concept, unveiled in 2017, remains a stunning example of Mazda's design prowess. Similarly, the RX-Vision and the more recent Vision Study have also been visual delights.

Mazda Vision Concept

According to the same report, the new Mazda6 variant isn't expected to debut before 2025. In the meantime, the current model continues to be available in select markets, and Mazda even celebrated its 20th Anniversary with a special edition to commemorate two decades since the original Mazda6 was introduced.

All this being said, the Mazda6 has been in the market for quite some time now with multiple updates that help keep this sedan competitive in the market, but you have to admit it is overdue for a comprehensive overhaul, and if the next-generation signifies a sliver of hope for a rear-wheel drive six-cylinder sedan, then we are all for it.

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