The second generation Mazda 6, launched in mid-2008, grows in every key dimension and features larger engines as well. Mazda says the bump in displacement, as well as handling traits and interior comfort, were "optimized" for North American roads. In Japan and Europe, a different, smaller Mazda 6 will be sold.

Engines include a new 170 horsepower 2.5 liter inline-four and the corporate 3.7 liter V6 borrowed from the CX-9 SUV assembly line - producing 272 horsepower. Transmissions for the four-cylinder model include a six-speed manual or a five-speed automatic. The V6 puts power down exclusively via a six-speed automatic, unlike the standard five-speed stick in the last generation's V6 trims.

The Mazda6 is available in two basic trim levels once it hits U.S. dealers - Mazda6 i and Mazda6 s. The Mazda6 i is available in SV, Sport, Touring and Grand Touring trim levels while the Mazda6 s is available in Sport, Touring and Grand Touring trim levels. Despite the fastback roofline, the North American 6 comes as a four-door sedan only and Mazda does not mention any other body styles including coupe or convertible models. Just like the original 6, the car is produced at the AutoAlliance International plant shared with Ford in Flat Rock, Michigan.

The U.S. spec Mazda6 differs from the car previously introduced with a very different look in the rear. Different taillights set them apart, as does the location change of the third brake-light. The license plate moves up in the U.S. version, exhaust tips look sportier and the Mazda emblem shrinks slightly. Look closely and you see even more changes with the rear fascia.

Expectations are high for the new Mazda6 - the first model almost single-handedly reinvented Mazda and was the fastest vehicle the automaker ever produced to exceed 1 million units sold worldwide.