In mid-2024, Mazda announced the conclusion of production for its long-running 6-index sedan, a model that has stood as a staple in Mazda’s lineup for decades. According to Motor1, citing the automaker’s press service, the company confirmed that the assembly line would wrap up the production run in April 2024. This decision marks the end of an era for a car that has served multiple generations across markets well beyond its initial launch window. Over the 22-year lifespan on the production line, Mazda rolled out approximately 226,400 units of this model, a figure that underscores the model’s enduring appeal and the practical needs it fulfilled for families and enthusiasts alike. In Japan, the sedan is sold under the Atenza name, a branding distinction that highlights the model’s regional market strategy and the distinct consumer expectations in different regions. [Motor1]
Historically, Mazda has not signaled a direct successor to the 6 in its global product strategy. The company has increasingly emphasized crossovers, with the CX family occupying a central place in its current lineup. The present generation of the 6 has been in production since 2012, a long run for any single model, and its global footprint has evolved in tandem with shifting consumer preferences. The move away from the Mazda6 in key markets is part of a broader tilt toward SUV and crossover offerings, including several CX-branded vehicles that cater to family practicality, all-weather capability, and urban versatility. The model was discontinued in the United States in 2021 and followed by the UK exit two years later, reflecting regional market dynamics and regulatory considerations that influence the timing of model changes and the introduction of new product lines. [Mazda press notes]
In related developments within the broader global auto scene, industry chatter suggests that Chinese automaker Chery is preparing to bring a new Exeed Exlantix ET crossover to market in the first half of 2024. If the product rollout proceeds as planned, the eagerly awaited model could reach Russian dealerships by November 2024, with final engine specifications to be announced closer to the launch. The exact engine lineup for Russia remains undisclosed at this stage, leaving consumers and dealers awaiting official specifications on powertrain options, performance figures, and pricing. [Chery official communications]
Meanwhile, a separate regional note indicates that the first batch of Hyundai Mufasa crossovers has arrived at Russian car retailers, signaling ongoing activity in the crossover segment and continued demand for new vehicle introductions in the region. These market movements illustrate how global manufacturers balance legacy sedans with newer, more versatile crossover models to meet diverse consumer needs, from fuel efficiency and practicality to capability and modern technology. [Hyundai announcements]
Across North America and beyond, buyers in Canada and the United States are increasingly prioritizing crossover utility, safety features, and connectivity. Mazda’s strategic shift away from the traditional sedan toward higher-riding vehicles aligns with a broader industry trend toward multi-purpose vehicles that can perform in urban settings while offering the reassurance of ample interior space and improved visibility. The sunset of the Mazda6 does not erase its historical significance in the brand’s story. It rather serves as a reminder of the constant evolution of automotive design, technology, and consumer demand, where brands periodically retire stalwarts to make room for newer opportunities, improved efficiency, and contemporary styling. [Industry analysis]