Mazda 6 hatch may be axed

Chief designer Akira Tamatani says the Takeri-based next-generation Mazda 6 is not likely to include a hatch in its model line-up.

"For hatchback, currently, we're dropping the idea of having a hatchback - we have already achieved the same sporty expression with our sedan that we used to achieve with hatchback," he says.

Tamatini-san also says market research had shown the UK and Australia sold a high percentage of hatch models, but global demand was for a larger sedan and wagon line-up closer to the size of the current larger 6 sold in the US and other high-volume markets.

"The users of hatchback were only using the function of the hatch maybe once a year, so when we consider that functionality, if a sedan achieves the same sportiness as hatch ... "

Hatch buyers may not need to mourn, as the Mazda chief designer did suggest that other options were in play to replace the hatch with something else, pending a business case.

"We actually have those type of ideas, it's under study at the moment, that study is an option that we can undertake - going back to what I was saying, the feasability of that will depend on the business management environment," he says.

Mazda Australia has hosed down suggestions the hatch version of Mazda's current 6 - it's most popular bodyshape - will not be continued, leaving the larger sedan - based closely on the Takeri concept unveiled in Tokyo - and a sportier wagon.

Mazda Australia spokesman Steve Maciver says nothing on the next-generation 6 has been decided.

"Takeri is a concept, in terms of Mazda6, there are still balls in the air, nothing has been absolutely signed off and finished, the car is still a while away so there are a few things still on the table including bodystyles. With that in mind we will continue to work on what the market needs in Australia and making sure we cover that market."

Mr Maciver says the hatch is the largest share of 6 sales in terms of the bodystyle and that discussions with Mazda head office were on-going.

"We are discussing the product decisions with Mazda, that's nothing out of the ordinary. Nothing's signed off but I'm not in a position to confirm a line-up of any future model range - including 6 - will be for Australia," he says.

Mazda Australia will, Maciver says, make sure what we bring fits the market but the decision will be made at a global level.

"We are in ongoing discussions with Japan on many products - including Mazda6 - and we're of the opinion that there are certain things for our market and that may include a hatch. He (Tamatini-san) talked about sedans and wagons but he also said there were other things on the table, but I can't confirm exactly what that line-up is going to be," Maciver says.