2021 Mazda6 evolves into complete package
Sedan resembles a luxury car and drives like a sports car
THE popularity of utility vehicles has pushed midsize sedans out of the spotlight, and in some cases — notably for Ford and Chrysler — out of the market altogether. In the midst of this product upheaval, Mazda hangs in there by building one of the choicest offerings available.
Now well into its third generation (the original line began for the 2003 model year), the Mazda6 sedan has evolved into a competent package. A midcycle refresh for 2018 gave it a more chiseled nose that fits neatly between a pair of aggressively flared front fenders. The roofline peaks midway between the front and back doors before sloping toward the rear deck.
It might not be considered as attractive as the latest Hyundai Sonata (arguably the best-looking midsizer of the group), but the Mazda 6 is nonetheless a handsome piece.
The interior also shines, mostly for its elegance. The conservative-look gauges, switches, 8-inch touch screen and traditional shift lever are relatively straightforward. For premium models, the upgraded seat coverings and trim are of luxury-grade quality.
Cabin roominess and quietness are exemplary for a midsize sedan. There’s also sufficient front- and rear-seat headroom and legroom for larger-size folks.
Trunk volume is equal to that of the Toyota Camry, while only slightly
less than the Honda Accord or Chevrolet Malibu.
Mazda6 performance starts with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 187 horsepower and 186 poundfeet of torque.
Optional is a turbocharged 2.5, which is standard in the seven-passenger CX-9 and is available on other Mazda models except for the compact CX-3 hatchback and MX-5 Miata roadster. Output is 227 horsepower and 310 pound-feet using regular 87-octane gasoline, and 250 horses and 320 pound-feet when topped up with 93-octane fuel.
A six-speed automatic transmission directs power to the front wheels.
Base fuel economy is estimated at 29 mpg in combined city/highway driving. The turbo engine is rated at 26 mpg.
The turbo is, of course, punchier than the nonturbo engine and is a natural fit with the Mazda6’s standard precision steering rack, suspension setup and G-vectoring system. It temporarily reduces engine torque when entering a turn, resulting in more weight balance over the front axle for a claimed improvement in steering response.
All-wheel drive is not available for the Mazda6, which is unfortunate since it can be specified for the Nissan Altima, Toyota Camry and Kia K5. AWD is standard in the Subaru
Legacy.
The Mazda6 also doesn’t offer a hybrid option, which can be specified for some other competitors.
However, at a starting price of $25,270, including destination charges, the Mazda6 Sport arrives with standard ingredients not always found in competitors’ base models. Buyers get dual-zone climate control, 17-inch alloy wheels and blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert. Forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, lane-departure warning/ assist and pedestrian detection also are standard.
The Touring adds 19-inch alloys, power driver’s seat and a power moonroof.
Along with the turbo engine, the Grand Touring gets an 11-speaker Bose-brand audio package, navigation, heated outside mirrors and paddle shifters for the automatic transmission.
The Grand Touring Reserve and Signature trim levels each come with the turbo engine and lift the Mazda6 squarely into the entry-luxury bracket with leather-trimmed seats (power-adjustable in front) with memory settings, head-up information display and adaptive (left-right pivoting) headlights
For 2021, the new Carbon Edition (with the turbo engine) is given special gray paint plus black trim and wheels. Black interior trim and contrasting red leather seat coverings are also part of the package.
It’s unlikely that the updating and improvements to the Mazda6 over the past few years will steer buyers away from utility vehicles and crossovers. But those who prefer driving a comfortable, responsive and practical passenger car that possesses stellar good looks should definitely give this one a try.