We got around 24 mpg with the V6, but could have done better. The 18-gallon fuel tank makes for a 400-mile cruising radius. And, during those cruises the Mazda was very undemanding to live with. However, when you have to make high-speed transitions moves the chassis displays a need for more strength.
As a businesswoman I always am aware of the competition and with the Mazda 6 there is plenty. The best selling Ford Taurus, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, and our favorite, the Honda Accord are just some of the models priced similarly to the Mazda. And, the Mazda's back seat is not as roomy as most of the others. 60/40-split rears seat folds down if you need additional space, but the trunk is very spacious with a 17.6-cubic-foot capacity.
So why buy the Mazda 6? The ride, handling, and unique look separate it from the others. The steering feel is about average, the suspension is accepting of large bumps and tries it best on curves, and the car is fairly quiet on highways. Add to that one of the better warranties, the Mazda comes with a four year, 50,000 mile package while most of the others have the more sedate three year, 36,000 offering.
I would buy this car because it fits into my price range, looks sharp, gets reasonable gas mileage, has good safety scores, and takes regular gas. I would buy the base "i" model and get them to throw in a cargo net.
Young unemployed male's view: Yep, got laid off. Tell me again how great the recovery is when all the other guys around me are struggling to find work that pays more then minimum wages. Worse, the public colleges have all increased their tuition. And, to top that off, my singing group was performing at the House of Blues in Las Vegas when we were told that the next attraction wanted to come out and we were sent packing. Not even a complimentary room. Now you know what kind of mood I am in so keep that in mind when I tell you the Mazda wasn't bad. The engine was peppy, gas mileage acceptable, room for plenty of items I can no longer afford to use such as my snow board, an agile feel, good brake touch, and it has good looks so when I park it in the Human Resources parking lot to get my unemployment check it doesn't look like I've hit bottom.