The previous generation Mazda6 MPS was a very capable performance sedan with amazing levels of grip. Unfortunately, it was a little on the heavy side and in Australia at least somewhat over-priced which affected sales.

Umeshita also pointed out that the 2008 Mazda6 will be built in two formats, one of which will be a little larger for the U.S. market which would mean that an MPS version would need to be developed across both platforms with separate development programs as well as different tuning for the US, European and Australian markets. Umeshita doesn’t see there being the consumer demand to justify the development costs.

A real shame as the last generation Mazda6 MPS (above) was the classic “sleeper” performance car and a very competent package for the enthusiast looking for a low-key performance four door. We are left to speculate just how good the new and particularly promising Mazda6 would have been in MPS guise - perhaps sporting the 3.7-litre Ford based modular V6 currently found in the CX-9…hmmm.