Mazda discontinued the Mazda6 in North America in May 2021 but the model continues to be available in other markets around the world. Recently, the British division of the automaker announced that the Mazda6 will no longer be available in the UK as well due to slow sales and growing demand for crossovers and SUVs. But there are a few other markets where the Mazda6 will stick around for now.
CarExpert reported that Australia would not lose the Mazda6. A spokesperson for the local manufacturer told the publication that the vehicle still plays an important role in Mazda’s lineup in Australia. “We look forward to the launch of the upcoming 20th anniversary model later this year, along with an update to the Mazda 6 lineup,” the spokesperson added.
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In December last year, Mazda celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Mazda6 – the original model was launched in 2002 – with a special edition model. Available in sedan or station wagon form, the Mazda6 20th Anniversary Edition is offered in Artisan Red or Rhodium White with new 19-inch alloy wheels and a chrome-plated radiator grille. The special edition model will soon be sold in Australia.
In the Land Down Under, the Mazda6 typically ranks second in the midsize sedan segment to the Toyota Camry in terms of sales. There are now fewer competitors than ever in the segment, as the Ford Mondeo, Kia Optima and Subaru Liberty have all been discontinued. Australia is one of the few markets that still has the 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, which is no longer available in Japan.
As for the future of the Mazda6, it looks uncertain for now. There have been rumors of a high-end rear-wheel drive successor, but the last we heard, Mazda said it wasn’t doing it. We don’t know how long the current model will last but it is already one of the oldest products in the auto industry. The 2023 Mazda6 will be sold in Australia, New Zealand, Japan and China.
