The Mazda6 is a performance-based vehicle that was originally built to be a sporty equivalent of European cars. Since its original release in 2003, the Mazda6 has been a competitive vehicle in its class.

The Mazda6 is a performance-based vehicle that was originally built to be a sporty equivalent of European cars. Since its original release in 2003, the Mazda6 has been a competitive vehicle in its class.

Over the last few years, Mazda has added various body styles to the Mazda6 line-up, including five-door hatchbacks, wagons, and sedans. All of these body styles have received updates for the 2006 year, creating quite a buzz amongst driving enthusiasts.

Performance Overview

All of the Mazda6 models have a wide body and a roomy interior. Sportier than most of the cars in its class, the Mazda6 offers a nice ride and smooth handling. The V-6 especially, offers a nice combination of power and speed.

The Mazda6 also takes to the pavement well, offering relative comfort and very few jolts to riders. And, since all of the models have the same basic suspension there is little difference between them when it comes to handling and maneuverability. One of the nicest features of the Mazda6 is the way it takes turns and curves with ease.

Overall, the Mazda6 is a great buy and a solid vehicle in its class.

Available Styles

The Mazda6 offers more body styles than any other mid-size vehicle:

• Four-door Hatchback I Sport
• Four-door Hatchback S Sport
• Four-door Hatchback S Grand Sport
• Four-door Sedan I
• Four-door Sedan I Sport
• Four-door Sedan S
• Four-door Sedan S Sport
• Four-door Sedan I Grand Touring
• Four-door Sedan I Grand Sport
• Four-door Sedan S Grand Sport
• Four-door Sedan S Grand Touring
• Four-door Sport Wagon S
• Four-door Sport Wagon S Grand Touring
• Four-door Sport Wagon S Grand Sport

Under the Hood

There are several different engine and transmission options available in the Mazda6 depending upon the model/style:

Engines

• 2.3-liter four-cylinder, 153 horsepower
• 2.3-liter four-cylinder, 160 horsepower
• 3.0-liter V-6, 215 horsepower

Transmissions

• 5-speed automatic with overdrive
• 5-speed manual with overdrive
• 6-speed automatic with overdrive

Fuel Efficiency

The Mazda6 is rather fuel efficient, getting 19 to 24 miles per gallon in the city and 27 to 32 miles per gallon on the highway.

Safety

Safety was a priority in the design of the Mazda6 and all of the styles offer 4-wheel antilock brakes and driver/passenger front-impact airbags. Seat-mounted side-impact airbags and overhead curtain airbags are also available.

Warranties

The warranty on most Mazda products exceeds the warranty offered by other auto makers and the Mazda6 is no exception:

• Bumper to Bumper - 48 months/50,000 miles
• Corrosion Perforation - 60 months/unlimited
• Powertrain - 48 months/50,000 miles
• Roadside Assistance - 48 months/50,000 miles
• Accessories - 48 months/50,000 miles

Cost

The Mazda sticker price ranges from $19,110 to $27,910 depending upon the body style.