Spy Shots: 2008 Mazda6

Ace spy photog Chris Doane has scored shots of the 2008 Mazda6, and they show that the next mid-size from Mazda will grow in both length and width over the current model. Check out the extended rear fender flares and raised gas gap, both both clear indicators that the 6's sheetmetal will be expanding. While it's difficult to make out a face through the front camouflage, the front end is also clearly larger. That's a good thing, as Mazda needs to make room underhood for Ford's new 250-hp, 3.5-liter V6 that will be available on the Mazda6. The platform on which the car will ride is reported to be a variant of the one underpinning the Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner. This lends credence to the rumor that all Mazda6 models will be available with all-wheel drive, not just the MazdaSpeed6. Expect Mazda's family sedan to still be offered in sedan, wagon and hatchback form, and a hybrid will join the group at a later date, likely after the Fusion goes semi-electric sometime in 2008.
[Source: Winding Road]