The midsize sedan has been the domain of a few notable models owning the market share, with many others showing their best game to try to take away the crown. This has made the affordable midsize sedan market one of the toughest segments to compete in. The Mazda 6 however, manages to stand out from the crowd. Its exterior styling is somewhat evocative of Mazda's own RX-8. Introduced last year, the second generation Mazda 6 addresses customer concerns of size and power. This generation is on par with class leaders in both respects.
There are two engine options available on the 6. A base 2.5 liter, four cylinder making 170 HP and an optional 3.7 liter V-6 making 272 HP and 269 Ft. – Lbs. of torque. The base engine can be mated to either a six speed manual or 5 speed automatic transmissions. The V-6 however, only has one transmission option, a six speed automatic. Fuel economy with the V-6 however, remains near the back of the pack. Despite this, the Mazda 6 is often near the top of the list when deciding on a midsize sedan.
The Range
Bodystyles: Sedan
Engines: 2.5L I-4, 3.7L V-6
Transmissions: 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic
Models: Mazda6 i (SV, Sport, Touring, Touring Plus, Grand Touring), Mazda6 s (Touring Plus, Grand Touring)
What's New
For 2010 the Mazda6 includes minor changes to its available packages, plus adds the Touring Plus trim level to the "i" and "s" models. That trim gets all the standard Touring features, plus a power moonroof and ground illumination. There is also a new Technology package for the Grand Touring trim.
Exterior
The 2010 Mazda6's exterior is an attractive combination of curvy lines and sharp edges. Mazda's brand face is distinct on the 6, taking much from the RX-8 with its muscular front shoulders and sleek projector headlamps.
Interior
The Mazda6 interior is modern and inviting with its T-shaped instrument panel and upscale materials. Blacked-out round instrument faces with bright metallic numbers and needles add a striking element to the cabin.
Performance & Handling
The 2010 Mazda6 is an entertaining to drive with either powerplant under the hood, but if you want to scoot, your best bet is the 3.7-liter, which moves the Mazda sedan out with authority. That said, the 2.5-liter mated to Mazda's brilliant six-speed manual is fun in its own right, allowing full control of engine speed.
Safety
Driver and passenger front/side airbags are standard for the Mazda6, as are side curtain airbags. An anti-lock brake system (ABS), dynamic stability control, and a collapsable brake pedal assembly further protect passengers.
EPA Fuel Economy
Mazda6 (2.5L): 20 mpg city/29 mpg highway (manual); 21 mpg city/30 mpg highway (automatic)
Mazda6 (3.7L): 17 mpg city/25 mpg highway
You'll Like
- Fun handling
- Responsive engines
- Long standard features list
- Attractive Mazda styling Roomy, modern interior
You Won't Like
- Quirky automatic
- No manual with 3.7-liter engine
Sum Up
Sporty, fun, and full of features
If You Like This Vehicle
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