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Zoom
zoom – the Mazda 6 wagon. Photo supplied by Mazda
Cost:
-
Mazda
6 Wagon (auto only) $35,335
-
Base
model Limited sedan (manual) $28,270
Performance:
Economy:
-
City
10L/100km.
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H’way
7.7L/100km.
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The
Mazda 6
–
well ahead of the crowd
The
boffins at Mazda have really done their homework with the Mazda
6 – it is a superb, well priced family sedan. Following on
from the reliable, but staid 626, the Mazda 6 stands out from the
crowd with its contemporary styling and excellent dynamics. I don’t
normally make comment on the shape of cars but I think the 6 is
a stunner.
You
really have to start asking the hard question about the necessity
of a six-cylinder engine (and the greater expense) when the 6’s
2.3-litre four cylinder pumps out 122kw and provides more than adequate
performance for the average motorist. Interestingly, the four is
slightly more powerful than the V6 it replaced in the earlier model.
I own
a six-cylinder Toyota Camry Touring model (now a couple of years
old) which is well built, very reliable and roomy. But if I had
been in the market now I probably would have put my dollars down
on the 6. As a comparison I recently drove the 6’s immediate
competitor, the new four cylinder 2.4 litre Camry which pumps out
112kw.
Again,
it is hard to justify Camry’s more expensive three litre V6,
in spite of its smooth, punchy engine. And although the Camry still
has the features which have endeared it to so many owners I believe
it is edged out by the 6.
For
the performance fans, the 6 again edges out the Camry four by a
significant 1.4secs in the 0-100 dash.
For
the enthusiast, the 6 does rev very easily to the red-line with
an Alfa-type throaty roar.
And
when it comes to engine thirst the 6 is lighter on the wallet compared
with the Camry, although it needs super unleaded.
For
the 6 expect 10L/100km in the city and 7.6 L/100km highway driving
for the auto.
Naturally
the manual is easier on fuel. I have not driven the manual but reports
indicate it has a smooth, positive five-speed box.
In
the chassis department the 6 uses double A-arms at the front and
multi-link/coil springs at the rear.
The
steering is pin sharp and well-weighted, which gives the car a very
agile, sports-like feel.
The
6’s brakes are excellent and uses two combined safety feature-
electronic brake force which activates before the ABS kicks in.
The
model I drove was the station wagon and this comes with one equipment
level and auto only.
Standard
equipment is extensive with the auto equipped with sportmatic option,
anti-lock brakes with brake force distribution, dual front air bags,
alloy wheels, dual zone air con, cruise control, CD player and an
excellent flat bed when the rear seats are folded down.
I drove
the 6 from Canberra to Sydney and return and the overwhelming memory
was of a very comfortable, relaxing trip.
Inside,
the seats are height adjustable, comfortable and well-bolstered.
On
the open road the superbly-designed steering wheel, mounted cruise
and audio controls make sure you do not get distracted from driving.
Of
course, there is a centre console/door pockets and cup holders for
added convenience.
And
in heavy Sydney traffic with the windows closed, air con on and
my favourite CDs drowning out the traffic noise, the drive was nearly
a pleasure. The cockpit controls in the 6 are outstanding.
It
has a silver finish, large circular dials and vents and easy-to-read
LED central control.
Instruments
are back-lit with red lights and I find this distracting. Only a
personal observation, but I would much prefer green.
As
an aside I only wish Alfa Romeo would take a look at Mazda’s
design philosophy. Their dash and audio controls are anything but
user-friendly!
The
three-year unlimited kilometre warranty demonstrates Mazda’s
confidence in its product. Further proof of the 6’s popularity
– just try buying one at a discount.
In
summary the Mazda 6 really is a superb car. I would be interested
in receiving e-mail comments from owners.
Test
car from Mazda Australia
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