Mazda’s new flagship sedan, the 190 kilowatt Mazda 6 MPS, will be priced about $50,000 when the turbocharged, all-wheel-drive model goes on sale about September 2005.

Making its Australian debut at the 2005 Melbourne International Motor Show, the Mazda 6 MPS, which boasts a class leading 380 newton metres of stump-pulling torque at just 3000rpm, will offer an impressive list of standard performance, safety and luxury features.

They will include, but will not be limited to, ABS anti-lock brakes with Brake Assist, an Active Torque Spilt AWD system, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Xenon headlamps, 18 inch wheels and tyres, six airbags (dual front, front side and head protecting curtain airbags), power windows and mirrors, cruise control, six disc CD player, remote central locking, trip computer, alloy pedals, reach and rake adjustable steering and climate control air conditioning.

A leather pack model, which will be priced about $55,000, will add leather seat trim, a power operated driver’s seat with three-position memory, a powerful Bose sound system and a glass sunroof to further boost the Mazda 6 MPS’s executive express credentials.

However, it’s the car’s mechanical specification that makes the most impressive statement and confirms this car as Mazda’s ultimate Zoom-Zoom sedan and a worthy leader for the hot selling and globally lauded Mazda 6 range.

Lying beneath its striking body is a host of new-generation Mazda technology. The Mazda 6 MPS’s direct-injection, turbocharged, 2.3-litre engine mates powerful turbo performance with ample torque in the low and mid range to deliver response that resembles that of a large capacity naturally aspirated engine, while also realising lower, Euro Stage IV exhaust emissions.

The engine drives the all-wheel-drive system through a new, six-speed manual gearbox that combines short, crisp shifts with ideal gearing to exploit the turbo engine. Sixth is an overdrive, contributing to relaxed cruising and good fuel economy.

The Mazda 6 MPS is equipped with Mazda’s new Active Torque Split, all-wheel drive system. It features more aggressive transfer of torque to the rear axle in accordance with driving conditions, helping the all-wheel-drive system achieve a fine balance between sporty control over the car that makes it particularly fun to drive.

The active torque coupling mounted in front of the limited slip rear differential is electronically controlled, adjusting front/rear wheel torque distribution between 100:0 and 50:50 to deliver optimum drive power to each wheel.

The Mazda 6 MPS's onboard computer automatically determines driving and road conditions so the driver can relax and enjoy the pleasure of the drive. Three different modes of front/rear torque distribution are automatically selected by the system: Normal, Sports and Snow (for slippery surfaces).

When a quick start is needed the system’s Power Take Off (PTO) mode aggressively distributes torque to the rear axle to ensure fuss-free, rapid acceleration.

A strengthened body, which has 40 per cent more torsional stiffness than the standard Mazda 6, helps improve grip and deliver sharper, more responsive steering. To compliment the car’s strong performance, Mazda beefed up the suspension and brakes.

Outside, there is no mistaking the Mazda 6 MPS.

The exhilarating contours of the Mazda 6 have been accentuated to create a look that conveys the tangible pleasure of the vehicle’s dynamic performance and solid stability. At the same time, the design does not overstate the car’s performance, favouring a sophisticated look that resonates mature refinement.

The cabin also includes some added refinements that deliver a look and feel of greater quality.

The Mazda 6 MPS is not only the fastest, best handling, best braking sedan Mazda has ever built, but the level of sophistication and refinement combined with an outstanding balance between spirited performance and everyday practicality makes it more than worthy of its role as the flagship model in the Mazda6 series.

Mazda 6 MPS - Major Specifications