Mazda releases facelifted 2011 Atenza in Japan

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Facelifted Atenza is now on sale in Japan, available in three body styles - Sedan, Sport (five-door hatchback) and Sport Wagon. In Europe Atenza will make its debut as Mazda6 in March at the Geneva Motor Show.

The enhancements for the freshened Mazda Atenza are based on the Zoom-Zoom evolution development concept, and include improvements to its environmental and safety attributes, driving performance, interior and exterior design, and quality levels.

The JDM version of Mazda6 packs a new direct injection MZR 2.0L DISI*1 gasoline engine. This engine provides plenty of power as well as outstanding fuel economy that exceeds Japan’s “2010 fuel economy standard plus 15%.”

The entire Atenza range, including front-wheel drive (FWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) grades, qualify as Super-Ultra-Low Emission Vehicles (SU-LEV) by achieving exhaust emissions that are at least 75 percent lower than the levels set in the Japanese Government’s 2005 exhaust emissions standard.

Improvements to driving performance include updated power steering and suspension settings that have resulted in better handling and straight-line stability at high speeds. With newly optimized front and rear suspension, the freshened Atenza also realizes a stable, more premium quality ride and enhanced comfort.

The exterior of the facelifted Atenza adopts the new Mazda family face with a five-point front grille and other spirited design elements that enhance its sportiness. Both the 17-inch and 18-inch aluminum wheels have new designs, and the range of eight exterior body colors has been augmented with new tints. The brand new colors are Clear Water Blue Metallic and Midnight Bronze Mica, which expresses a premium identity.

Inside, the center panel stack has a smooth, glossy, piano-black finish. Beautiful and tactile chrome plating adorns the climate control and audio dials, and other parts. This color combination in the interior conveys a refined and high quality atmosphere.

Prices in Japan start at 2,100,000 yen ($23,427).