2015 Mazda6 GS Review SKYACTIV + KODO = WIN

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Every tribe, every group, typically has one member who stands out from the rest, whether it's because of their looks or personality. In the case of Mazda, that member would arguably be the MX-5 roadster, but the Mazda6 isn't too far behind if you ask me.

By the way, have you seen the all-new 2016 MX-5? I'll keep my fingers crossed in the hopes that I’ll finally get a chance to take it for a spin, but in the meantime I invite you to read the first impression of my colleague, Mathieu St-Pierre, who attended the launch in Monterey, California.

Heavy hitter
The Mazda6 oozes a bit more sex appeal than other models in the Japanese manufacturer's lineup, and it all starts with those sleek headlights and their provocative stare. Then you have a taut body with crisp lines, a delightfully long nose, and a sporty-looking tail finished by a dual exhaust. The award-winning “KODO -- Soul of Motion” design language wonderfully comes to life.

The 2015 Mazda6 is available in three trim levels including GX at $24,495, GS at 27,495, and GT at $32,295 (plus freight and PDI). They all share the same engine, namely a 2.5L, 16-valve, DOHC, 4-cylinder SKYACTIV-G, which can be ordered with a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission (the latter offers a Sport mode and available paddle shifters). My particular automatic GS tester featured the Luxury Package and retailed for $30,395.

Light drinker
Thanks to advanced SKYACTIV technology, the 2015 Mazda6 burns as little as 6.1L/100km on the highway -- even less (5.9L/100km) with the available i-ELOOP regenerative braking system, which is pretty close to what you'll get with many hybrids. Don't you find it even more appealing now?

Add an elegant interior with plenty of details like red stitching on the very comfortable, black leather-wrapped seats, along with a modern dashboard that's beautifully laid out, and you won't want to leave the Mazda6 (my hands definitely didn't want to let go of that perfectly sized, leather-trimmed steering wheel).

My only complaint would be the restrictive door opening: I hit my head against the frame on a few occasions even though I'm just 5’4” tall. But how can I fault such a gorgeous automobile? I simply should have paid more attention.

All-around star
Beyond its great looks, the 2015 Mazda6 really is functional, safe, and entertaining. Here are some of the sweet features that were included in my GS Luxury tester:

  • TomTom navigation system;
  • Power sunroof;
  • Dual-zone automatic climate control;
  • Fog lights;
  • Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Traffic Alert;
  • Rearview camera;
  • 5.8” colour touchscreen audio display with Bluetooth and USB port;
  • 11-speaker premium Bose audio system;
  • Centre console with sliding armrest and storage;
  • 60/40-split fold-down rear seatback with centre armrest.

Wrapping up the 2015 Mazda6
I very much enjoyed my week with the Mazda6, which is not only stylish and full of charisma, but also quite fuel-efficient and a real treat to drive. The Honda Accord ($23,990), Chevrolet Malibu ($24,995), and Nissan Altima ($23,698) are three alternatives among a sea of competent midsize sedans in Canada. With such an impressive resume, however, the 6 stands an excellent chance of becoming the newest member of your family.

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