Word has it that Mazda is pulling out all
the stops with its next-gen 2023 ‘6’ sedan, which will reportedly follow a
BMW-like formula with a rear-wheel drive platform and a longitudinal engine
layout. According to Car & Driver, one of its engines could be an
inline-six unit with Skyactiv-X technology and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system,
while the design will likely be a reflection of the Vision Coupe concept that
made its debut three years ago in Tokyo.
The Vision Coupe was meant to represent
the next evolutionary stage for Mazda’s KODO design language, and if that
recent report is to be believed, the upcoming ‘6’ will uphold that by heralding
a brand new era for the Japanese carmaker. Now, while the concept was an
elegant sloped-roof sedan with a surprisingly long hood, the production 2023
Mazda6 will likely look a little more “down to Earth”, much like this rendering
courtesy of Kolesa.
The designer stayed true to the new KODO
aesthetic by replicating the concept’s front fascia, albeit in a more practical
way. The headlights and grille are basically sharper versions of what we’d
normally see on a modern-day Mazda3. Moving on towards the back we see a
continuously-rising shoulder line, leading up to the Vision Concept-like
taillight design.
The quad-exhaust setup and semi-ducktail
boot lid spoiler make for interesting touches. In fact, the render looks more
like an Alfa Romeo if you just look at it from behind, whereas the front end is
100% Mazda.
