In terms of noise insulation, the Mazda6 is even quieter than the former segment leader, the Camry. What’s more, unlike the 2011 Sonata, the speed-sensing, variable-assist steering doesn’t feel too disconnected.
Above-average livability!
The interior is perfectly suited for four normal-sized adults, five if need be. Access to the front seats is made easier by the low door sills and wide door openings. In the back, however, the sloping roofline slightly impedes ingress and egress, although not as much as the Mercedes CLS or Volkswagen Passat CC!
The Mazda6 boasts the largest trunk in its class. At 469 litres, it’s roomier than the new Sonata’s (+5 litres). Plus, the opening is wider and deeper, which comes in handy when loading big, heavy items. Small nylon latches even allow you to conveniently fold down the 60/40-split rear seatbacks to increase cargo capacity.
The GS model proves to be surprisingly well-equipped, with climate control, power windows, heated mirrors, 17-inch wheels, a pretty decent stereo and a host of airbags, among other standard features. Unfortunately, the heated seats are exclusive to GT models, which also add leather upholstery.
Making life on the road sweeter for the driver is Mazda’s Comfort Package. At $1,795, it includes some highly-desirable technologies and amenities like dynamic stability control, rain-sensing wipers, a glass sunroof and an 8-way, power-adjustable driver's seat with lumbar support.
A matter of style?
From an enthusiast’s standpoint, it’s somewhat hard to make a case for the Mazda6 GS-I4 like the one I evaluated. Driving dynamics are not as stimulating and rewarding as the Kizashi’s and the interior is not as gigantic as the Accord’s. Furthermore, the base powertrain (with automatic transmission) fits the performance profile of an everyday family sedan but that’s it.
Basically, styling is what motivates buyers to pick the 6. Far from the visually-boring representative’s car that is the Chevrolet Malibu, it allows Mom and Dad to drive around in style while waiting for their kids to grow up and out of the family nest.
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| The tilt-telescopic steering wheel features audio controls. (Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Auto123.com) |
Above-average livability!
The interior is perfectly suited for four normal-sized adults, five if need be. Access to the front seats is made easier by the low door sills and wide door openings. In the back, however, the sloping roofline slightly impedes ingress and egress, although not as much as the Mercedes CLS or Volkswagen Passat CC!
The Mazda6 boasts the largest trunk in its class. At 469 litres, it’s roomier than the new Sonata’s (+5 litres). Plus, the opening is wider and deeper, which comes in handy when loading big, heavy items. Small nylon latches even allow you to conveniently fold down the 60/40-split rear seatbacks to increase cargo capacity.
The GS model proves to be surprisingly well-equipped, with climate control, power windows, heated mirrors, 17-inch wheels, a pretty decent stereo and a host of airbags, among other standard features. Unfortunately, the heated seats are exclusive to GT models, which also add leather upholstery.
Making life on the road sweeter for the driver is Mazda’s Comfort Package. At $1,795, it includes some highly-desirable technologies and amenities like dynamic stability control, rain-sensing wipers, a glass sunroof and an 8-way, power-adjustable driver's seat with lumbar support.
A matter of style?
From an enthusiast’s standpoint, it’s somewhat hard to make a case for the Mazda6 GS-I4 like the one I evaluated. Driving dynamics are not as stimulating and rewarding as the Kizashi’s and the interior is not as gigantic as the Accord’s. Furthermore, the base powertrain (with automatic transmission) fits the performance profile of an everyday family sedan but that’s it.
Basically, styling is what motivates buyers to pick the 6. Far from the visually-boring representative’s car that is the Chevrolet Malibu, it allows Mom and Dad to drive around in style while waiting for their kids to grow up and out of the family nest.
 |
| Its sleek yet muscular stance conveys a sense of power much like the RX-8 sports car. (Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Auto123.com) |
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