The New Mazda6 Can Zoom-Zoom

Previously, the Mazda 6 represented an aging model within a heavily competitive midsize sedan segment. Even domestic models have become increasingly competitive as the likes of the Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, and Honda Accord, have all grown in size, luxury, and/or performance. But the latest 2009 Mazda 6 is comes to the table with a wide range of improvements, and may offer buyers something different than all the rest.

The new Mazda 6 may be slightly overdue, but as Mazda boasts, the vehicle is “larger, faster, smarter.” First off, the new Mazda 6 is definitely larger. With dimensions larger than those of the Camry, buyers will have no trouble fitting friends, family, and their cargo within the sedan. Mazda chose to ditch the wagon variant altogether and simply leave the sedan for this redesign. The body is also unique to North America, and is marginally larger than its counterparts in Europe and Japan.

In addition to offering a roomier cabin, American drivers will also love what’s under the hood. The base Mazda 6 gets a 2.5 liter four-cylinder engine, which produces 170 horsepower and is mated to either a six-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic. However, many drivers will opt to get the 3.7 liter V6 s version, which produces 272 horsepower and is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. This engine is fairly new and powers the popular CX-9 crossover.

The new Mazda 6 shouldn’t disappoint too many buyers when it comes to fuel efficiency. The base four-cylinder model delivers 22 mpg city and 30 mpg highway according to the EPA. The s model delivers 17 mpg city and 25 highway. Although this doesn’t represent best-in-class fuel economy, it does provide strong number, and it also should be noted that the vehicles don’t require premium fuel.

Being smarter than the outgoing model is something that’s difficult to over look. The new Mazda 6 offers plenty of new features including side and curtain airbags, traction control, stability control, ABS brakes, and tire-pressure monitoring. These features contribute to plenty of safety that should help compete against its ultra-safe competition.

Although the Mazda 6 faces stiff competition from tried and true models, it does offer something that stands out from the ground. When it comes to styling and general driving dynamics, the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord are a bit conservative, while the Nissan Altima remains true to its sporty attitude and marketing. But soon, car buyers will also find that the Mazda 6 also offers competent and refined road manner, while seamlessly delivering responsiveness that echoes the Zoom Zoom Mazda philosophy.

Riding in the Mazda 6 provides plenty of positive feedback. The steering is light, the suspension is well-tuned to grab corners without harshness, and the brakes deliver sports car-like demeanor.

Inside the new 6 is a clean, organized, and very sport interior that shares a resemblance to some of Mazda’s latest products, including that of the CX-9.With a sporty instrument cluster beaming with red electroluminescent lighting and wonderfully supportive seats, the driver and passengers will remain comfortable while enjoying a spirited ride.

Perhaps what many potential buyers will be drawn to will be the new Mazda 6’s styling. With coupe-like curves graceful lines, and even aggressive flared exhaust pipes, the look of the 6 says it all. Plus, the available 18-in. wheels help round out the sporty appearance.

The all-new 2009 Mazda 6 is available in showrooms now. Pricing begins at $19,220. The Grand Touring V6 model tops out close to $30,000.

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