Filed under: Hybrids/Alternative, Sedans/Saloons, Green, Mazda

Click above for a high-res gallery of the 2009 Mazda6.

Despite having the ability to snatch the 2.3-liter gasoline-electric hybrid from FoMoCo's arsenal - the same engine found in the Mazda Tribute Hybrid, Ford Escape Hybrid and 2009 Fusion - Mazda has decided to keep the new Mazda6 hybrid-free for the time being. Jay Amestoy, veep of public and governmental affairs for Mazda, told InsideLine that the automaker is content that the new 6 can hold its own against the competition, despite the high cost of fuel. "Our real-world MPG numbers will be strong, and we think the fuel economy is pretty good the way it is."

The 2009 Mazda6, equipped with the base 2.5-liter four and a manual transmission is rated at 20/29 mpg on the EPA's city/highway estimates, while the 3.7-liter V6-equipped model comes in at 17/25 mpg.

Sales of hybrids continued to rise, but consumer's tastes seem to favor dedicated hybrid models like the Prius, instead of hybrid sedans and cute 'utes based off normal models originally equipped with traditional powerplants.

Gallery: First Drive: 2009 Mazda6


Gallery: 2009 Mazda6


[Source: InsideLine]
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