Performance
When the Mazda6 debuted last year, I drove a powerful V-6 version called the ''s.'' That car handled like a true sport sedan, with relatively heavy steering and a pretty rough ride. It was fun, but I didn't think the gains in performance were worth the sacrifices in everyday comfort.
I was expecting a similar experience with the four-cylinder model, minus all that power, but I was pleasantly surprised to find a sedan that nearly matches the Camry in terms of ride comfort. While it wasn't quite as cushy as the Camry — which is so cushy some drivers find it unappealing — I would put it alongside the Fusion and Malibu in terms of offering a good combination of comfort, handling, noise isolation and acceptable acceleration. This is the version of the Mazda6 that's a terrific daily driver.
The Mazda6's mileage isn't as great as some of the competition, at 21/30 mpg city/highway for the automatic, four-cylinder model I tested (20/29 mpg with the manual transmission). The V-6 s trim gets 17/25 mpg. After filling up at the gas station, I calculated my mileage at less than 21 mpg after commuting in heavy traffic for more than 300 miles. The trip computer registered 21.5 mpg over the same distance.
Automatic, four-cylinder versions of the 2010 Accord, Fusion and Camry return 21/31, 22/31 and 22/32 mpg, respectively.
While EPA gas mileage figures are important, a 1-2 mpg difference isn't enough for me to sway a buying decision from a car I want because of its looks or its comfort to one with marginally better mileage.
See also:
Exterior
The CX-9 manages to avoid the chunkiness of many SUVs, in part because of its
angular nose and car-like honeycomb grille. The SUV's beltline rises as it heads
rearward, and the sides are free of c ...
New Equipment Added to a Long List of Premium Features
The facelifted Mazda CX-7 has an extensive standard equipment package: AM/FM
radio and CD player with MP3 capability, one-touch power front and rear windows,
remote central locking, cruise control ...
EXTERIOR
That Mazda2 is small, but it still manages to pack in a huge style punch. The
rounded hatch, coupled with a rear spoiler and cat-eyelike headlights are
totally likable. I'm not really sure I'd tak ...