Mazda USA says no to AWD in its Mazda 3 and 6 – for a simple reason



At the recent LA Auto Show, Mazda presented a refreshed version of the Mazda6 with additional trims in a revised exterior and interior, new mesh grille and redesigned front LED headlamps to name a few.

A new powertrain for the sedan was also introduced, in the form of a 2.5-litre turbocharged SkyActiv-G engine producing 250 hp and 420 Nm of torque – the same unit found in the Mazda CX9.

With all that oomph under the hood, you’re probably thinking that it would be more assuring for Mazda to introduce an AWD system for its revised sedan. As it turns out, Mazda’s North American representative has claimed that their current crop of Mazda 3 and 6 aren’t suited for it – citing layout issues possibly because AWD vehicles require the additional driveshaft linked to the rear wheels.

While it may not serve as a confirmation that an AWD system is in the works – it’s been acknowledge that there is demand for it and that a large proportion of premium sedans in a major part of the US are sold with all-wheel drive systems.

Source: CarAdvice