FOLLOWING the launch of the Mazda6 in July, sales have outstripped Mazda’s forecast for the car in the first month putting it on course for 6,000 Mazda6 sales in 2002.

September sees the second launch phase for this car with the introduction of the estate and diesel versions with state of the art MZR-CD common-rail diesel engines.

The Mazda6 diesel and estate models are now on sale, starting at £14,595 for the 121ps diesel Mazda6 S hatchback and £14,995 for the Mazda6 S 2.0 petrol estate.

Both the diesel and estate will offer the outstanding driving dynamics already seen in the new Mazda6 through the new platform developed specifically for this car. Coupled to a suspension set-up designed to give the car best in class handling the Mazda6 really does lead the class in driving dynamics. Both the diesel and estate version will retain the other class leading attributes of the Mazda6, such as load capacity, braking, interior space, stylish design, craftsmanship and the unique Karakuri seat function.

Not only will the Mazda6 diesel offer class leading handling and driving dynamics it will also be a frugal performer with excellent fuel economy and a refinement that has consigned diesel noise to the past.

For the entry level Mazda6 S with the 121ps common-rail diesel the insurance group is 7E, at least a group below almost every other car in the segment.