I admit I have a bias towards the brand; what enthusiast doesn’t? Especially after Mazda released the Mazda3 and Mazda6 back 2003 and 2002 as 2004 and 2003 model years respectively. The “zoom-zoom” tag line perfectly exemplified what journalists and enthusiasts discovered about the brand: inexpensive, fun-to-drive cars.
Unfortunately, the rest of the public didn’t agree. Sales lagged. The previous generation Mazda6, especially, was ignored, and I have to admit I could understand the public’s view. When looking to replace my aging Mazda 626, I found the then latest incarnation too small, too plain, when compared to competitors Toyota, Honda, and -- especially -- Nissan.
The 2009 Mazda6 may change all that.
As I previously posted, the all-new Mazda6 looks like the company took the already good-looking Nissan Altima coupe, lipo’d all its fat, ran it through tae bo, and then finished with some weights. The Mazda6 retains its sleekness even with the RX-8 inspired fender flares. Contrast this with the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, which have become larger and more European-looking.
The Mazda6 comes with two engines, an inline four and a six-cylinder version. Though I would have preferred the latter, I drove the four-cylinder version instead, rationalizing most buyers would prefer its better fuel economy.
So how’d the Mazda6 drive? Surprisingly smooth. Engine noise, while noticeable, still sounded muted. Same with interior noise, which I found almost luxury car levels. But the Mazda6 handled straight-line acceleration and sharp turns with aplomb. I would love to put it through a race track, something that can’t be said about either the Camry or Accord.
The 2009 Mazda6 is larger than its predecessor, and it both looks and feels like it despite its almost coupe-like design, especially the interior. It can get a little cramped, though, in the back. Like the Mercedes-Benz CLS, taller folks may find headroom sparse in the back seat though there’s plenty of foot space.
Outside of that niggling issue, I found the Mazda6 to be an excellent alternative to the competition. Car enthusiasts, especially, should give it some serious thought as a daily driver. I paid Mazda the ultimately complement when I told my rider that I wish I hadn’t purchased my Acura RL.