Reading Topic: More HP and Torque?
The cost difference of premium and regular is insignificant compared to actual MPG.
This V6 produces lower power than it should, runs on lower octane and achieves average MPG in the 6 cylinder arena. I believe MPG sells a car more so than it's need for lower octane fuel.
Most people don't have a clue what "octane" is. There are people who use premium (higher octane) in engines that can't benefit and don't need higher octane. However, these folks believe that "premium" means better gas. It doesn't. It's simply an octane rating.
Thus, it makes more sense to get better MPG than use lower octane fuel for the majority of drivers.
I think the 6 has rather lower MPG given it's modest HP and torque numbers, respective to the other cars in it's class.
This chasses could easily handle 240-250hp and similar torque.
As far as FWD handling this torque there are designs that can help such as equal length drive shafts and LSD (limited slip differential).
I think Mazda worked hard on this car and got it very very right. But, the time came to release it before they could extract more power to keep current with the competition. I think within a year or two Mazda will bring the 6 to 240hp, no problem.
Tome