The latest version of Mazdas flagship sedan, the Mazda 6, is fast becoming a favorite in the market.
With seating for 5, sporty handling and a design that placed among the top 3 finalists in 2013 for the World Car Design of the Year awards, the 6 has received some mid-cycle updates to increase its appeal.
The award winning looks have been refreshed and the new front end sports an enhanced grille and elongated headlights, which add to the sense of motion you feel when you look at the stationary car.
The new grille, available LED lighting and signature wing all work to define the 6 adding a sporty appearance to the car and keeping with the Zoom Zoom philosophy.
On the inside there is even greater reason to consider the Mazda.
The overall sense of a driver focused space is complemented and enhanced by the fit and finish of the various components. A close look reveals tighter gaps between parts; handsome stitching of the material wrapping the dash and door panels; a heads up cockpit concept wherein the gauges and even the 7” display screen are as high up as possible without intruding in the driver’s field of vision.
A new center console features actual knobs for the heat – A/C and volume controls, which is a huge plus in the safety and convenience arena.
There is an electric parking brake residing in the new console as well as a rotary dial surrounded by function buttons to control the radio, navigation and other adjustments. This system looks very well designed and was an unexpected find in a vehicle at this price. A base Sport model with a manual transmission carries a MSRP of just $21,495 US.
The interior is large enough to sit 4 adults, 5 in a pinch. In Canada heated seats for both front and rear passengers is a standard feature.
Mazda has always provided fun to drive vehicles.
The 2016 Mazda 6 is no exception. It is powered by a SKYACTIV 2.5L 4 cylinder engine.
This engine is a carry over, as are the 6-speed automatic and manual transmissions. The 184 hp and 185 lb-ft of torque are enough to be engaging.
The engine can be controlled via a drive select system which varies the responses of the car to better suit the purpose of the drive, be it commute or fun.
As for the fuel economy, Mazda claims a manual version will deliver 25 mpg and 37 mpg (9.4/6.4 L/100 km-city/highway) and an auto should return 26 mpg and 38 mpg (8.8/6.1 L/100-city/highway).
Being the flagship, the mid-size sedan is available with the latest driver aids. These include back up camera, rear cross traffic alert, lane departure warning and smart braking.
Offering up a fun to drive, affordable and attractive family car, Mazda has again proven itself worthy of attention. The new look and level of quality can only rocket the brand to the forefront of the market.