The Mazda 6 – well ahead of the crowd

Zoom zoom – the Mazda 6 wagon. Photo supplied by Mazda

Specs Cost: - Mazda 6 Wagon (auto only) $35,335 - Base model Limited sedan (manual) $28,270 Performance: - 0-100km/h 8.5 secs Economy: - City 10L/100km. - H’way 7.7L/100km.

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 122 kW 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, 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 112 kW.

Again it is hard to justify Camry’s more expensive 3-litre V6, in spite of its smooth, punchy engine. And although the Camry still has the features which has 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 1.4 seconds in the 0-100 km/h 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/100 km 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 use 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