SOPHISTICATED high performance is the theme of the European-designed Mazda6 MPS concept car.

The car has been styled at Mazda's European R&D Centre in Oberursel, Germany and will make its world premiere in Paris.

To reflect an atmosphere of sporty sophistication combined with powerful dynamism, the front of the car bears a new version of Mazda's five-pointed grille as well as an air intake design similar to the one featured on the RX-8 sports coupe.

The enlarged front bumper and the rear spoiler both play an aerodynamic role in improving dynamic stability while enhancing the overall appearance through their bold design. Flared wheel arches all round and 18-inch Michelin Pilot Sport tyres also underline the pronounced performance character. The sportiness of the car's body is further emphasised by a new type of paintwork called "Silver Storm" to create a subtle shine.

The new direct-injection turbocharged 2.3-litre engine achieves a rare blend of low emissions, excellent fuel efficiency and high performance. Although it is a serious driving machine, it meets all relevant low emission regulations.

An all-new traction system is employed, effortlessly transmitting the power of the Mazda6 MPS onto the road. The 4WD system used in the Mazda6 is combined here with an active torque control.

The result is an electronically controlled torque-split 4WD system that is suitable for high performance cars and gives precise tyre-to-road contact even at high revs. The active torque control both front and rear ensures smooth running and safe stability control. In addition, the torque responsive LSD (Limited Slip Differential) improves cornering ability by eliminating power loss during manoeuvring.

The car is also equipped with a six-speed manual transmission that makes it responsive to plenty of torque. Appropriately for a high-performance vehicle, shift distances have been shortened to allow fast and accurate gear changes.