All-new Mazda6 to hit showrooms in August

With the smaller Mazda3 flying out of showroom this year, the mid-size Mazda6 has become the wallflower of the brand.

Despite the shift to smaller sedans this year, Jim O'Sullivan, CEO of Mazda North American Operations, says the new Mazda6 is "the most important new vehicle Mazda has launched in a decade."

Mazda will price the four-cylinder version of the 2009 Mazda6 at $19,220; the V-6 version will start at $24,800. Both prices include shipping.

The new model will be available to dealers in August, the automaker said.

"Bringing any new car to market at a competitive price has always been critical, but seldom more so than today," CEO Jim O'Sullivan said in a statement. "Customers are looking for that rare combination of style, dynamics, economy and a great price, and the all-new 2009 Mazda6 delivers on all levels."

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