2003-2008 Mazda 6: Road Test

Pleasantly peppy with the four-cylinder engine and manual transmission, a Mazda 6 is dull but acceptable with four-cylinder/automatic. The automatic's manual-shift feature can be used to restore some lost sparkle. V6 versions don't exactly spring off the line, and need high rpm to really feel brisk. But they're lively enough with either transmission. A test manual-shift "s" sedan reached 60 mph in 7.5 seconds. The automatic is smoothly responsive, whereas the manual gearbox has coarse shift action. Manual-shift V6 sedans have averaged 20.9 mpg in mixed city/highway use, and 18.2 mpg with gas-guzzling performance runs. A four-cylinder/manual-shift sedan managed 22.3 mpg. Mazda recommends regular-grade fuel for both engines. The Mazda 6 suspension is taut, but generally absorbent and comfortably controlled, even with 17-inch tires. Some sharp reaction to pavement seams occurs at highway speeds. Mazda aims for sport-sedan moves, and the "6" does feel agile and composed. Suspension settings are essentially the same for each trim level, though 17-inch tires deliver greater grip in fast turns. Modest body lean is evident in curves, but steering is responsive. Great straight-line tracking is a bonus, but the V6 model pulls mildly to the side during rapid acceleration. A wide turning circle impairs close-quarters maneuverability. Brakes are strong, with progressive action. Both engines are relaxed while cruising, and emit hard-acceleration growls. Neither is super-quiet. Rough-surface tire noise is moderate but prominent with 17-inch treads, but sedans are slightly better than hatchbacks or wagons at muffling road sounds. Wind rush is modest. Unobstructed gauges are pleasing, but not everyone likes the red Grand Touring lighting. Main climate controls are simple knobs, but a silvery finish makes their markings tough to read in daylight. Audio controls have the same problem, and are also too "busy." Climate and audio settings display near the center dashtop, remote from the controls themselves. The interior has nicely padded surfaces above door-handle level, but it disappoints with hard, thin-feeling plastic panels below. Firm front seats are quite comfortable, but some drivers might prefer a longer cushion. Others may desire better lateral support in swift turns. Six-footers have ample leg room and adequate head room. The standard tilt/telescopic steering wheel is a welcome plus, but might not tilt high enough for tall drivers. The optional rear spoiler bisects the rearward view. Wagons provide easy all-around visibility. Seat support in back is nothing special, on slightly soft cushions. Toe space is good, and leg room exceeds the norm unless front seats are moved well back. Head room is adequate. Entry/exit is easy enough, despite narrow thresholds and doors that could open wider. Center shoulder belts in wagons and hatchbacks are awkward to find and fasten. The sedan's flat-floor trunk is nicely finished and roomy. Strut-type lid hinges don't steal space or threaten cargo, but the opening is not shaped to accept bulky objects. Spring-loaded rear seatbacks with in-trunk or cargo-area releases flop forward without assistance, but don't quite lie flat. The lidded dashtop bin contributes to above-average interior storage space. Hatchbacks and wagons have spacious, nicely trimmed cargo bays, plus rear under-floor storage.

Value for the Money
In total refinement, the Mazda 6 ranks a shade behind the pace set by Accord and Camry. Acceleration is tepid in four-cylinder models with automatic; yet overall, the Mazda 6 delivers on its fun-to-drive promise. It's also as practical as any compact sedan--and even some midsize models. As a result, the Mazda 6 earns a Recommended rating.