With its Mazda 5 sibling on several 2008 top vehicle lists, the Mazda 6, a redesigned four-door sedan, should be given consideration for the 2009 list.
It’s situated in the midsize sedan category, arguably the most competitive in the automotive industry with heavyweights Honda Accord, Toyota Camry and Chevy Malibu.
The Mazda 6, about 6 inches longer and 4 inches longer than the 2008 model, is available in four trims, including my weekly driver, the Grand Touring model. Mazda is still an unheralded manufacturer, but it’s hard to understand why.
The Mazda 6 has a new style, its solid in all interior and exterior areas, it has no glaring issue areas, and its price makes it an attractive option against industry leaders.
The Weekly Driver’s Ratings (Rating low to high, 1 to 10 points)
Acceleration(6) Smooth, steady and confident V6 in the city and on the highway.
Cargo Room(5) Easy access to trunk, good small storage bins and adequate runk space for category.
Controls (6) Refreshingly easy and logically designed and designed and little gadgetry learning curve. There’s an annoying blind spot warning system that’s too sensitive. (It can be disengaged with a button next to the steering wheel. Optional navigation system has a big screen and operates logically.
Details (6) Not quite the same level as the Accord or Camry, but not bad, either. Plastic is the material of choice, but it looks about as good as plastic can get.
Front Seat (6) Ample head and leg room, no major problems.
Fuel Economy
(6) Regular unleaded recommended. Four cylinder ranges from 20-30; Six cylinder ranges 17-25.
Handling (7) Tight turning radius, strong brakes, agile and confident on corners and little body lean.
Rear Seat (6) Seats three with smallest passenger best in the middle, good head and legroom and easy entry and exit.
Ride Quality (6) The Grand Touring has 18-inch wheels and there’s little issue on speed bumps or rutted roads. Surprisingly smooth.
Quietness(6) No significant problems, although there’s some wind rush and it’s more pronounced at higher speeds.
Total (60 out of 100)
The Weekly Driver’s final words It’s hard to beat the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, but don’t sell the Mazda6 short.
Class Midsize, four-door sedan.
Primary competition Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Chevrolet Malibu
