MAZDA 6/Atenza Hatchback 2007-2013 Photos, engines & full specs

The second generation of the Mazda 6/Atenza has followed Ford's ideas regarding the body shapes, and it was offered as a sedan, hatchback, and station wagon.

Ford owned a big chunk of Mazda since 1996, and as part of the plan was sharing platforms and engines between the brands. That's why the Mazda 6 received the Mondeo's platform, and it was a good move. The Japanese carmaker was known for its sporty products, starting whit the best-selling roadster globally, the MX5, and the only sports car on the market with a rotary engine, the RX8. The 6 tried to offer a pleasant, sporty feeling for a family sedan.

Mazda designers decided to combine curved lines and sharp angles. The front wheel-arches were enlarged, and the swept-back headlights evoked the samurai warrior eyes. Its sweeping, V-shaped pentagonal grille enhanced the sporty look of the vehicle. Despite being taller, wider, and longer than its predecessor, it was lighter by 35 kg (77.2 lbs). The five-door hatchback featured a sloped tailgate.

The interior was large and comfortable for four adult passengers. While the front bucket seats featured average-height bolstering, the split-folding bench in the back was profiled for two occupants. Depending on the trim level, Mazda installed a Bose sound system and a sat-nav.

Under the hood, Mazda installed a wide range of engines. For starters, a 1.8-liter was considered good enough, mostly for fleet use. Depending on the market, the 6 offered a Ford-sourced 2.0-liter turbodiesel. Due to its independent suspension in all corners, it offered good handling and comfort.