2006 Mazdaspeed6 Road Test (Video Clip)

Technical

Where Mazda has done well is with the engine selection. They have returned to getting what they need from smaller powerplants. Under the swollen hood is a turbocharged 2.3L inline 4-cylinder. The charger plus the latest in direct injection make for 274 hp at 5 500 rpm and 280 lb/ft of torque at 3 000 rpm. The only way to get the power to the active torque-split AWD system is through a 6-speed manual transmission. The suspension is sport-tuned and fully independent. The 4-wheel disc brakes are larger in diameter over those found in the regular Mazda6 GT. Steering is engine-speed sensitive able to provide variable assistance. Front and rear sway bars have also grown in size.

On the road

The 2.3L is both fabulous and deceiving. Once beyond the ever-present turbo lag, the boost builds and the G-forces come in play. The power-band is located somewhere between 2 500 and 5 500 rpm. If, for some reason, you should up or downshift too late or too soon, the performance level will be disappointing. Mazda conservatively estimates that this car will run to 100 km/h from a standstill in 6.6 seconds. I believe that, if the car is in the right hands, it will reach the mark in no more than 6 seconds. Fuel consumption is high. I managed 15L per 100 km.

The steering department is the one that should be sent back to the drawing board. I found the on-center feel to be somewhat vague, the assistance off (too little in the city, too much on the highway) and that feedback is limited. Also, the power assistance would loose every semblance of manageable control in rapid lock-to-lock motions. The turning radius is very larger which makes manoeuvring a chore. The brakes on the other hand, are strong and resistant. I expected a firmer pedal but the slight sponginess does not affect the final result. At or near the limit, the Mazdaspeed6 settles into manageable and predictable understeer.

The already stiff chassis of the 6 has been reinforced to cope with the extra power and weight of the AWD system. The immediate result is impressive stability at high speeds although the downside, together with the stiffer springs, combines for a punishing ride on rough surfaces. The previously tested 6 GT offered a better comfort to handling compromise.

Safety

The Mazdaspeed6 has standard dual front, side and side curtain air bags, ABS brakes with electronic brake force distribution and assist, traction and stability control as well as seatbelt pre-tensionners. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) awarded the car 5 out of 5 stars (a perfect result) for both front passengers in a frontal impact. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) has rated the 6 "Good" and a best pick in its category.