Mazda 6 2011 gets smiley facelift

If you thought that the attractive Mazda 6 had escaped the curse of the Joker, then think again, as the 2011 Mazda 6 has debuted in Japan with a smiley frontal facelift.

Known as the Mazda Atenza in Japan, the corporate look transforms the front bumper of the Mazda6 and not much else. New 17-inch and 18-inch wheel designs as well as new tail lamps round out the exterior changes. Internal updates include improved power steering and suspension settings.

Also interesting is the debut of a brand new direct-injection 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine alongside the existing 2.5-litre 4-cylinder unit. Though specs were not released, the new engine apparently offers better fuel economy.

Available in sedan, ‘Sport’ liftback and wagon body styles, the Japanese market also benefits from optional features such as all-wheel-drive, HID turning headlights, hill-launch assist for manual models, automatic flashing indicators during hard braking, 40 GB HDD navigation system with a 7-inch display, radar-based adaptive cruise control, hands-free keyless entry and starter button, voice-controlled Bluetooth and an 8-speaker Bose stereo. It is unlikely that all of these features will make it to the GCC-spec model.

Expect the 2011 models to go on sale in the UAE by this summer. Keep track of updates and prices in the Mazda 6 buyer guide.