What's the news?
Mazda is sprucing up the 6 and CX-5 models, with the revised 2015 versions due to go on display at the Geneva Motor Show in March.
Both receive more advanced safety technology, new powertrain options and an upgraded interior, while they are also the first Mazdas with Adaptive LED Headlights (ALH). This is similar tech to the BMW and Audi set-ups, in that it uses an autonomous high-beam system of four independently controlled LED blocks per headlamp, dimming only certain sections of the lights to avoid dazzling other road users while simultaneously maintaining as much illumination of the road ahead as possible.
Further additional technology includes Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Keep Assist System and Driver Attention Alerts. Smart City Brake Support Forward/Reverse uses automatic braking technology to prevent low-speed collisions no matter your direction of travel, while the 2015 CX-5 also receives Smart Brake Support and Mazda Radar Cruise Control, both of which are already available on European Mazda6 models.
Under the bonnet, the Mazda6 estate with the Skyactiv-D 2.2 diesel engine is now available with all-wheel drive (a similar set-up to that found on the CX-5). The CX-5, meanwhile, is offered in Europe with the Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre petrol engine with i-Eloop, Mazda's brake energy regeneration system and Drive Selection for adjustable driving modes. Suspension upgrades and newer sound insulation are said to offer improved ride comfort and a quieter cabin. It's unlikely that the petrol engine will be offered for sale in Ireland.
Anything else?
The interiors of both have been revamped with the heads-up cabin design that was first seen on the smaller Mazda3, incorporating the next-generation human-machine interface (HMI). Both cars get MZD Connect smartphone functionality, a seven-inch touchscreen display and an electronic parking brake, while the Mazda6 also benefits from a head-up display.
Full Irish market details of the refreshed cars have yet to be confirmed.