MAZDA will this year launch the flagship model of its Mazda6 range.

The company describes the Mazda6 MPS as a high-performance saloon and the car will go on sale during the third quarter of this year.

The 150mph car is powered by a new direct-injection turbocharged 2.3-litre petrol engine that produces 255bhp at 6,000rpm.

Official combined fuel economy is 28mpg.

Mazda fleet and remarketing director Adam Pumfrey said: ‘Our brand awareness in the corporate sector has been growing daily and much of that is due to the fantastic reception that Mazda6 has had in the fleet arena.’

Pricing and specification will be announced closer to launch.