Mazda hasn't officially announced any intention to add a harder-core MPS/Mazdaspeed variant to the all-new GH5 6 lineup, but according to Auto Express a turbocharged AWD version of the sharply-styled sedan may be ready for sale by 2010.
Auto Express report the 6 MPS is expected to debut at the Paris Motor Show in October, and will feature a turbocharged version of the standard 2.5-litre inline four mated to an AWD drivetrain. Suspension and brakes will also be revised to cope with the additional power and to help impart a more sporting feel to the mid-size family car. Considering that Mazda already sell a 4WD version of the 6 in Japan (where it is known as the Atenza), a conversion to full MPS-spec is only but a turbocharger away. One potential problem is a lack of a manual transmission option in 4WD Atenza's, but given the R35 GT-R, Lexus IS-F and the Evo X's TC-SST it seems that automated gearboxes can still be a plus for performance.
As yet, we've got no idea what the new 6 MPS might look like. There's a few renderings circulating around the net at the moment, but we hope that Mazda take a leaf out of their own book and simply use the bodykit developed for the Mazdaspeed Atenza concept car, shown at this year's Tokyo Auto Salon (below).
Another promising rumour is that Mazda will be giving the MPS treatment to the 2/Demio city car. A turbocharged version of the current 1.5-litre motor is said to be a potential engine option. Styling could be very similar to the Mazdaspeed Demio (below) that was exhibited at TAS'08 alongside the Mazdaspeed Atenza.
Again, these are just rumours for now, but don't be at all surprised if Mazda eventually decides to wheel out these cars. We're hoping they do.
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