Mazda followed Ford’s ideas to build three body shapes on the same mid-size sedan platform and offered the 6/Atenza 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. On the other hand, it needed to sell vehicles for all Joes and Janes, and a station-wagon was the ideal solution for a young family who didn’t like the MPVs.

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) on a similar trim level. In station wagon form, the 6/Atenza was slightly longer than its sedan and hatchbacks siblings.

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 featured three headrests. 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.