Why is the Mazda6 called Atenza?
2 Answers
Atenza is the third generation of the Mazda6. Typically, when referring to the Mazda6 alone, it defaults to the first generation. There are three generations of the Mazda6: First generation Mazda6; second generation Mazda6 Ruiyi; third generation Mazda6 Atenza. Relevant information about the Atenza is as follows: Introduction: The Atenza is a new-generation mid-to-high-end sports sedan flagship model developed and manufactured based on Mazda's spirit of "breaking conventions and starting from scratch." Design: The Atenza continues the exterior design of the imported Atenza, adopting Mazda's KODO design philosophy, with a U-shaped front grille paired with LED headlights, enhancing its sporty feel.
I've just researched this naming thing. The Mazda6 uses different names globally - in its home country Japan it's called Atenza, derived from the Italian word 'attenzione', meaning 'to draw attention'. When FAW Mazda localized it, they phonetically translated it to 'Atz', which sounds stylish while preserving the original flavor. My research shows the first generation in 2002 already used the Atenza name, and using Atz in China gives it both recognition and a sporty feel. Compared to the US version simply called Mazda6, our name is more distinctive. Every time we discuss this in car enthusiast groups, everyone agrees Atz has more character than just calling it 'Ma Liu' (Mazda6). Maybe the manufacturer also considered Chinese pronunciation fluency.
