ACCELERATIONThe 4-cylinder is peppy from a stop and adequate during highway passing maneuvers. It only feels stressed on long hill climbs. The V6 furnishes ample power both around town and on the highway. Both automatics are smooth and responsive. The manual shifts precisely, but some testers find its throws a bit long.
FUEL ECONOMYIn Consumer Guide testing, 4-cylinder models with manual transmission averaged 22.6-25.0 mpg in city/highway driving. A 4-cylinder with the automatic averaged 25.4 mpg with slightly more highway driving than city use. A V6 averaged 17.6 mpg in mostly city driving. Mazda 6 uses regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITYWhether it's the 4-cylinder engine with 17-inch wheels or the V6 with 18s, the ride is quite firm.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKINGThe 6 is agile and corners with confidence. Body lean in corners is minimal. Steering is responsive, with good on-center feel. Close-quarters maneuverability is aided by a relatively tight turning circle. The brakes deliver strong, steady stopping power.
CONTROLSAll the gauges and controls are logically placed and easy to read. Large, stylized gauge readouts blend form and function well. The optional navigation system has a large screen and is fairly easy to use. The 6, like some other Mazdas we've tested, has two light settings for the instrument panel and other major controls, which are governed by a button in the gauge cluster.
DETAILSBright metal accents lend warmth to the nicely styled cabin. Glossy black plastic trim lends a sporty ambiance. Most other surfaces are soft touch and appropriate for the class. Optional leather seating surfaces lend an upscale appeal.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)Headroom and legroom are ample. The standard tilt and telescopic steering wheel is a plus.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)Headroom is plentiful for average-sized passengers. Occupants will find more legroom than in some like-sized rivals. Wide-opening doors aid ingress and egress. There is room for three in the back, but the center position should be reserved for smaller passengers.
CARGO ROOMNon-intrusive, strut-type hinges free up cargo space, which is already generous. The 6 has decent small-items storage space including a large glovebox and deep, two-tier center console.
VALUE WITHIN CLASSMazda 6 excels for its style, passenger space, and fun-to-drive character. We prefer the 4-cylinder versus the V6 due to those models' better ride and handling balance and fuel economy. The 6's solid build quality and competitive power make it a midsize car that's well worth your consideration.