The franchise of the Mazda brand had recently changed hands to Bermaz Motor Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of the Berjaya Group of Companies, being appointed the sole distributor in Malaysia. It needs no remainder that Mazda has had a long history in the Malaysian automotive industry and with this new distributor, the resurgence of the brand is certain. This is especially so with their long term plans and determination to not only reevaluate the existing dealership network but to raise the level even higher with new dealerships which are expected to offer a brand/lifestyle experience. The new outfit is also backed by key personnel who have extensive experience in the automotive industry. With this in place, the future of the brand seems definitely positive. 

The Mazda6 particularly is an existing model that will definitely give the Japanese/ Korean make executive sedans a run for their money with the superior features and decent pricing even though it is CBU from Japan. This is a clear case of the Japan/Malaysia FTA and its benefits. It is a totally new 2nd generation model that is expected to follow the success of the predecessor which was first introduced in 2002. Based on the Kizuna philosophy or emotional connection between the customer and the car, its core concept is emotional, sporty and exclusive experience. Its segment is between C and D but compared to all its competitors, it is the lightest in weight besides being the largest in its class. As the current fuel price trend is a real concern, much attention had been given to the weight in order to achieve better fuel economy.

The 1st generation Madza6 made a big impact not only here but all over the world but the looks of this new Mazda6 will make even more heads turn. It is a stand-out compared to the competitors in the segment due to the emphasis placed on being different but at the same time, offering much more than most might expect. An example is the start-engine button feature which is only found in continental cars. It will perfectly fit the requirement of most businessmen, executives and professionals due to its overall superior package. This Madza6 package will surpass the requirements of a fleet manager for a corporate car.

Being a new outfit, does not mean they have to start from scratch as within a short span of time, a total of 31 dealerships have been established in Peninsular and East Malaysia. In fact, most of the outlets from the previous dealership have been taken over by Bermaz Motor Sdn Bhd. It will not be surprising that in not too long in the future, an even complete network will be in place.

The Madza6 dominant and bold frontal design with the bi-xenon headlights enhances its exceptional appeal. It comes with a short overhang that aptly matches its rear proportions. The flared wheel arches create a solid stance and aggressive/macho appearance plus exterior package had been so refined to delivers a Cd ratio of only 0.27. In the rear, again much effort had been put in place to result in a smart, clean and out-of- the ordinary look.

For the interior, an overall black hue is everywhere including the plush leather seats which accentuate the sporty look even more. The 3-spoke power steering wheel is leather wrapped and it comes with the impressive pedal shift. Yes, you read it right, pedal shift with steering wheel mounted controls. The dash design is pleasing and all the buttons/knobs are within easy reach and well laid-out. On the centre facia is the Human Machine Interface (HMI) concept panel that links audio, climate control and display systems. The sound system offered is supported by none other than Bose speakers. Due to the increase in the wheel base compared to the previous model, the rear occupants enjoy 20mm more legroom. To add-on to this impressive cabin, there is also a sun-roof that can be activated by a switch. The cargo bay has the capacity of 519-litre and more space can be made available as the rear seats are foldable.

The powertrain is the in-line 4 cylinder DOHC 16-valve 2.5-litre engine that is further enhanced with AAS or Active Adaptive Shift, VIS or Innovative Variable Intake System and S-VT or Sequential Valve Timing System. It is rated to produce the peak power of 170 PS at 6000 rpm and maximum torque of 226 Nm at 4000 rpm. The engine is mated to the 5-speed auto transmission with Activematic and pedal shift. Our test included a short stint at the Colmar Resort which has a route that included 70 turns one way and a run along the KL roads. It felt comfortable in both instances but most notably, is its ability to comfortably negotiate tight corners without the rear hanging out! This car is designed to be enjoyed even in difficult circumstances. We recorded reaching 110km/h at 2500 rpm, 140km/h at 3400 rpm and 160 km/h at 3900 rpm. The engine felt very responsive besides the ride being quiet and it can easily be pushed to near 200 km/h speed. Due to the high-mounted front suspension and the E-type multi-link rear suspension, the NVH felt in the cabin is minimal and comfortable.   

There are two front, side & curtain SRS airbags and the brake system includes 4W ABS plus EBD. Some of the other features available are DSC or Dynamic Stability control system, ISOFIX child seat anchors and the front seatbelt with pretensioners. Another useful feature is the adaptive front lighting system (AFS) that makes driving more comfortable especially at night. The bodyshell also incorporates the Advanced Impact Distribution and Absorption System. For additional safety, it has remote keyless entry with integrated ignition key. The front brakes are ventilated disc and the rear solid disc. 

The warranty offered is 3 years or 100,000 km which ever comes first. Fleet customers can enjoy better package and other incentives but on a case by case basis.

The colours available are Stormy Blue, Copper Red, Brilliant Black, Crystal Pearl White and Lilac Silver with the sticker price of RM175,433.00 on-the-road without insurance for company registration in Peninsular Malaysia.

Price is valid as per 16 October 2008.