Under the Hood

The Mazda6 features a front and rear independent suspension. Four-cylinder and V-6 options are normal in this segment, but the standard six-speed manual transmission (with the four-cylinder) plays up Mazda's performance roots. There are also two automatic transmission offerings: The four-cylinder engine can have an optional five-speed automatic transmission, and the V-6 comes with a standard six-speed automatic (it can't be had with a manual). Mechanical features include:

* 170-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 167 pounds-feet of torque * 272-hp, 3.7-liter V-6 with 269 pounds-feet of torque * Six-speed manual transmission * Optional five- and six-speed automatic transmissions * Optional push-button start * Optional keyless entry and start system

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    Lighter
    The ignition switch must be in the ACC or ON position Press the lighter in and release it. When ready for use, it automatically pops out. CAUTION: Don't touch the metal part of the lighter, y ...

    After Getting In
    l Are all doors closed and locked? - Is the seat adjusted properly? - Are the inside and outside mirrors adjusted? - Is the steering wheel adjusted properly? - Is everyone's seat belt fastened? ...

    Interior
    Up to five people can fit inside the Mazda3. The steering column tilts and telescopes, and the instruments sit in a trio of round, recessed nacelles. A ratchet-type mechanism permits seat adjustme ...