More room
The interior has not been overlooked; a complete overhaul was performed. Of course, the extra size translates into additional legroom, especially in the back. I can almost hear current Mazda6 owners shout: "Finally!"
The modern dashboard is well executed, with Mazda's sports-car design themes and a selection of new materials. Higher-end models even get a fully-revised navigation system. The gauges are just the right size and quite easy to read. Similar to the CX-9, backlighting is red and blue.
Adjusting the seats is a breeze, with power adjustments for both the driver and front passenger in more luxurious models. The driving position is good and comfort is enhanced. The buckets manage to offer sportier side support at the same time, which I really appreciated on the winding roads of California.
I should also mention the huge trunk in the back offering a low cargo threshold and a wide enough opening to load larger items. Additionally, the rear seatbacks almost fold completely flat, making for one of the largest and most convenient cargo areas in the segment.
Less selection
Sadly, though, the Mazda6 no longer offers family-oriented models. Only the four-door sedan will be available -- at least that's the plan now -- meaning the Mazda6 Sport five-door sedan and the five-door wagon have been tossed aside. The low popularity of these models outside of Quebec largely explains this decision by Mazda Canada.
For 2009, the Mazda6 comes with a choice of two powertrains and two trim levels, GS and GT, pricing ranging from $22,495 to $33,095. The former boasts a 170-hp 2.5L mill, which is a mere evolution from the current four-cylinder. This upgrade will also find its way under the hood of many more models over the upcoming weeks, including the Tribute, Mazda5 and Mazda3. With the Mazda6, it can be mated to a 6-speed manual transmission or a 5-speed automatic with Sport mode.
The interior has not been overlooked; a complete overhaul was performed. Of course, the extra size translates into additional legroom, especially in the back. I can almost hear current Mazda6 owners shout: "Finally!"
The modern dashboard is well executed, with Mazda's sports-car design themes and a selection of new materials. Higher-end models even get a fully-revised navigation system. The gauges are just the right size and quite easy to read. Similar to the CX-9, backlighting is red and blue.
 |
| The modern dashboard is well executed, with Mazda's sports-car design themes. |
Adjusting the seats is a breeze, with power adjustments for both the driver and front passenger in more luxurious models. The driving position is good and comfort is enhanced. The buckets manage to offer sportier side support at the same time, which I really appreciated on the winding roads of California.
I should also mention the huge trunk in the back offering a low cargo threshold and a wide enough opening to load larger items. Additionally, the rear seatbacks almost fold completely flat, making for one of the largest and most convenient cargo areas in the segment.
Less selection
Sadly, though, the Mazda6 no longer offers family-oriented models. Only the four-door sedan will be available -- at least that's the plan now -- meaning the Mazda6 Sport five-door sedan and the five-door wagon have been tossed aside. The low popularity of these models outside of Quebec largely explains this decision by Mazda Canada.
For 2009, the Mazda6 comes with a choice of two powertrains and two trim levels, GS and GT, pricing ranging from $22,495 to $33,095. The former boasts a 170-hp 2.5L mill, which is a mere evolution from the current four-cylinder. This upgrade will also find its way under the hood of many more models over the upcoming weeks, including the Tribute, Mazda5 and Mazda3. With the Mazda6, it can be mated to a 6-speed manual transmission or a 5-speed automatic with Sport mode.
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| The 2009 Mazda6 comes with a choice of two powertrains and two trim levels, GS and GT. |