IMPROVEMENTS are being made to the Mazda6 as the Japanese car maker gives its large saloon and estate car a mid-life upgrade.

A torque vectoring system is being added to give the cars more traction, cabin noise levels are being reduced and some new technology is coming on board.

The engine line up, which features Mazda's fuel-efficient SKYACTIV system, remains unchanged with 2.0-litre petrol and 2.2-litre diesels but changes are being made to the diesel to make it more responsive.

Additional body insulation is also being fitted to make the cabin quieter.

Inside, there's a new-look steering wheel and the new Mazda6 has an updated head-up display using high resolution imagery.

There's also a new 4.6-inch full colour TFT driver information screen and a traffic sign recognition system which recognises no entry signs and also gives speed alerts.

On the safety front, Mazda has replaced the car's laser operated emergency braking system with a forward sensing camera set up which widens the speed range for detecting other vehicles.

Prices for the new Mazda6 range will be announced closer to the on-sale date later this year.