Once in a while, the Philippines becomes the venue for launching new models way ahead of bigger markets such as North America and Europe.  The latest event for celebration is the local launch of the all-new 2008 Mazda6.

The Philippines, despite being one of the few Asian markets to be left-hand drive; will be one of the first to have the Japan-built Mazda6.  The second-generation model will have a lot to live up to, given that the first-model was a multi-award winning car including the 2006 Car of the Year – Philippines.

At a glance, the 2008 Mazda6 is more grown up than before.  However, it remains impressive from any angle, putting together Mazda’s athletic character together with a tinge of luxury and sophistication.  Up front, the prominent fenders are reminiscent of the RX-8 sports car, a car that’s sexy already by itself.  Add to that an accentuated side profile as well as generously appointed 215/50 R 17 W-rated tires.

Inside, the Mazda6 is indeed a driver’s car.  The cockpit isn’t roomy nor is it really cramped—it feels just right with controls all designed for quick intuitive operation.  Previous Mazda6 features are carried over to the all-new model including the tilt/telescopic steering wheel, power adjustable driver’s seat with memory, sun roof and a 6-disc in-dash CD changer with 6 speaker system.  This time around though, Mazda added the convenience of a 4-way power front passenger seat as well as an auxiliary audio jack for iPod players.

Under the hood, the 2008 Mazda6 makes use of the venerable MZR engine.  Bored to increase displacement from 2.3 to 2.5 liters, this engine features a Variable Intake System (VIS) as well as Sequential-Valve Timing (S-VT).  All in all, the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine under the 2008 Mazda6 produces a healthy 168 horsepower and 226 Nm of torque.  Mated to the engine is a five-speed automatic with sequential shift override and cruise control.  Other changes done to the mechanicals include an Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS).

Meant to be driven hard, the all-new Mazda6 also puts safety in mind with the complete set of airbags (6 of them) as well as anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist.  A Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) makes its debut in the all-new Mazda6 in order to inspire confidence and peace of mind when the car’s pushed hard.

There are some features which have been removed in the new Mazda6, the most notable of which is the loss of the automatic HID headlamps, but this is done to keep the Mazda6 competitive in terms of pricing.  The bigger, more powerful Mazda6 is pegged at P 1.499 million—a reasonable price given Mazda’s reputation in building truly sporty cars.

Stay tuned to motioncars.com for our test drive report on the all-new Mazda6.  The Mazda6 is now available for viewing at all Mazda dealerships nationwide starting today.

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