The larger, more powerful 2009 Mazda6 will begin to appear on dealer lots late this summer, according to statements issued by the company. The Mazda6, CX-7, and CX-9 (both crossovers) have been specifically designed for the North American market.

The 2009 Mazda6 has been redesigned for more interior space as well as a larger external profile. Engine choices include a 2.5-liter four-cylinder and a 3.7-liter V6. Although specific ratings on power production have not been released, more than 156 horsepower is expected based in numbers from comparable engine in the Mazda line.

Specifically the Mazda6 is intended to go head-on with competing vehicles including the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, both leading sellers in the mid-sized sedan segment. Base pricing is expected to be set in the range of $19,600.

Available only as a sedan, the 2009 Mazda6 will not be offered as a five-door and wagon like the current model. The new vehicle will be built at the Auto Alliance International plant in Detroit as a joint project with Ford Motor Company.

The current model of the Mazda6 has been the second-best selling vehicle for the company in the United States in 2007 with 57,575 units sold. That figure was, however, a drop of 13 percent from 2006. Mazda hopes the new design will bring sales up and give it a strong competitive position in the mid-sized market.