Larger dimensions also result in a larger trunk for the new Mazda6, which now measures 16.6 cubic feet. That's up from the old car's 15.2 cubic feet, and it's larger than key competitors like the Accord (14 cu. ft.), Camry (15), Altima (15.3) and Malibu (15.1) offer.

The standard 60/40-split backseat can fold down when you need more cargo room, and when it's folded the back of the seat is flat with the cargo floor, forming an uninterrupted plane for laying long items flat. It's a nicely executed design overall.