04 November 2002: Mazda has come up with something of a tongue-twister of a name for its final option in an extensive Mazda6 lineup, the Mazda6 Sport4 AWD.

The car, which is likely to be available here early next year, has a full-time four-wheel drive and automatic transmission. It is powered by the 2.3-litre MZ-R engine, and comes in the ‘Sportwagon’ format.

Power output is transmitted to all four wheels and the road surface permanently, and an electronic double de-clutch system distributes power output between the front and rear axles according to driving behaviour and surface characteristics.

The new five-speed ‘Activematic’ automatic transmission offers the driver the choice of either automatic or semi-automatic mode. Activematic's first three gears are relatively short, gears four and five are longer and allow for lower noise levels in the passenger compartment and lower fuel consumption. If the driver chooses to shift manually a second shift mode is available that allows the gears to be changed up or down sequentially.

A sensor constantly monitors the roll angle of the vehicle and is integrated into the control electronics of the transmission system to provide additional driving comfort. This system not only effectively prevents sudden shifting on long uphill stretches, it automatically selects a lower gear on downhill stretches and supplies major support for the braking system.