But the abrasion issue is a minor quibble, especially when weighed against the fantastic seats and overall cosmetic appeal of the Mazda6. Mazda really gave consideration to the body shape of the western male and ensured that the Mazda6 is long on head, leg and elbowroom. Many Eastern imports tend to shortchange Westerners when it comes to such dimensions. The Mazda6 has done the opposite by accommodating my gangly legs, which could be outstretched when the seat was moved rearward. To compensate for nearly sitting in the backseat, the steering wheel telescoped a lengthy distance to meet my arms, creating a commendable driving position that I have experienced in very few cars regardless of origin.
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| Mazda really gave consideration to the body shape of the western male and ensured that the Mazda6 is long on head, leg and elbowroom. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
Overall the Mazda6 GT's interior is very well assembled and thought out, not to mention appealing - that is except for the red-on-red illuminated instrumentation. I found it difficult to readily spot the red needles of the various gauges, including the speedo, against the red lines and numerals that form the background for the gauges. A little more color contrast would greatly benefit anyone over forty and in need of progressives - not that such is representative of yours truly.
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| Mazda will be filling out the Mazda6 lineup this spring with a five-door hatchback and sport wagon model. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
Style didn't take a back seat to cargo functionality though, with a relatively large 430 L (15.2 cu ft) trunk gobbling up a hefty load of gear in a hurry. For those with greater load carrying needs, Mazda will be filling out the Mazda6 lineup this spring with a five-door hatchback and sport wagon model. The Japanese company deserves very loud applause for bringing a hatchback and wagon back into the midsize marketplace. It wasn't that long ago that Toyota discontinued its popular Camry wagon, believing that its wagon customers would slide into a 2WD RAV4 or Highlander. I think Toyota deluded itself and will soon pay the price as potential purchasers move over to Mazda and others, for the convenience of a wagon or hatchback.
