I caught on MSNBC today that Mazda's profits were four times higher this past quarter as compared to last year at the same time. I don't know where that puts Mazda financially. But for a company that has been bleeding for several years, a four fold increase as compared to a year ago, especially considering the U.S. economy, is a really good sign of the company's growing stability.

Just thought I'd pass it on...

They are having record sales for the 6 (as opposed to the 626) in Europe and Asia, so that's probably why :)

As far as projected Mazda 6 sales go in the US, do you think that their sales will compare to that of the tribute? Seeing as the small sport utility class is probably as popular as the family sedan class and they co-exist within the same price ranges, do you think the 6 is bound to be more successful?

Originally posted by curtlo707
As far as projected Mazda 6 sales go in the US, do you think that their sales will compare to that of the tribute? Seeing as the small sport utility class is probably as popular as the family sedan class and they co-exist within the same price ranges, do you think the 6 is bound to be more successful? I'd argue most definately. Most people look for that flash in a family sedan, hence the takeoff success of the Nissan Altima, which doesn't even have that many gleaming reviews. The 6 is going to be in a class of its own. Even fully loaded it's coming out less than the Altima, has a better fit and finish to it, and handles oodles better.

The only thing it misses is the power of the Altima (but the 0-60 times are competitive), and the rear seat room (I think it's off by an inch). Thus, I'd say the 6 wins in spades.

I'd argue most definately. Most people look for that flash in a family sedan, hence the takeoff success of the Nissan Altima, which doesn't even have that many gleaming reviews. The 6 is going to be in a class of its own. Even fully loaded it's coming out less than the Altima, has a better fit and finish to it, and handles oodles better.

I hope I did that quote thing right! I've been on this forum for a long time and still haven't learned all the bells and whistles :D . Anyhow, thanks for the reply Herc. I think you've definately got a point there. Other than the slight horsepower difference, the 6 is certainly the most attractive car imo. Even though it's probably shooting for a different market, if people's concerns are over speed and sportiness alone, I think the 6 hatchback will dominate. Not only do I think its a drop dead gorgeous car, but I'm also guessing its going to be a little lighter and quicker than the sedan. If it turns out that I can't afford the RX8, I'll strongly consider the 6 hatchback as my next car.

the hatch version of the mazda6 will not be available in the u.s. until late next year or later. i still don't understand why it is not being launched at the same time as the sedan. the wagon version comes later, sometime after the hatch.

Originally posted by zoom44
the hatch version of the mazda6 will not be available in the u.s. until late next year or later. i still don't understand why it is not being launched at the same time as the sedan. the wagon version comes later, sometime after the hatch. Probably because it sits on a different frame or the body moulding is quite different and would add re-tooling costs to the manufacturing plants.

I think they need to get a feel of how the water is before they jump in, which given Mazda's prior years of business is a safe move. The 6 will move, and hopefully move fast, then the hatch will be released. It's the best looking hatch I've *ever* seen.

Originally posted by Red Devil
I caught on MSNBC today that Mazda's profits were four times higher this past quarter as compared to last year at the same time. I don't know where that puts Mazda financially. But for a company that has been bleeding for several years, a four fold increase as compared to a year ago, especially considering the U.S. economy, is a really good sign of the company's growing stability.

Just thought I'd pass it on...

This is also mentioned today at Car and Driver (http://www.caranddriver.com/xp/Caranddriver/dai/2002/november/20021113_dai_mazda.xml)

Ford deserves credit here...