2010 Mazda 6 i Touring Plus
Sporty character, modern looks and good value.
By: Juan G. Robbin
Most sedans are a series of compromises, few get the mix right. Mazda seems to have gotten the secret formula and applied it to the Mazda 6 in the perfect proportions. Mazda clearly is emerging as the sportiest of all of the Japanese mainstream brands by offering a recipe of style, value and performance.
Approaching the Mazda 6 from the front, you can’t help but to notice the now signature look of the dramatically flowing front wheel fenders, a design philosophy of “Emotion in Motion” that Mazda calls Nagare. This emotion in motion idea has made its way into the Mazda lineup creating a family DNA that does make this manufacturers’ design stand out from the other, sometimes bland Japanese forms.
The lighting design, both front and back is dramatic, with sloping light covers extending into the fenders, which for most manufacturers today, this design element seems to be de rigeur. There are elegant contoured exhaust tips that give the rear end of the Mazda 6 an elegant flair, similar to more expensive sedans from the Continent.
Inside, the Mazda 6 offers all of the typical amenities and accoutrements that this vehicle segment expects, yet with more of a European flair than its competitors. The seating position is superbly comfortable, and touch areas feel 1st class throughout the cabin. We liked the welcoming and soothing greeting from the infotainment system as well as the cleverly designed and useful buttons and switchgear. Fit, finish and trim are excellent, offering a design that sets the Mazda 6 apart from its competitors. Rear seat is typical for a sedan of this size, that is to say, comfortable for two, tight for three. We did notice a lower than usual roof line due to the sloping design angle towards the rear of the top, making it a bit more of an entry/exit challenge for those taller than average.
Driving the Mazda 6 feels more like a European sports sedan than a Japanese four door. Steering feedback is good, with almost no torque steer feel. Power on the Mazda 6 i Touring Plus is compliant and smooth; however, we would have liked a bit more power, especially when four adults are in the vehicle. Mazda does offer a 6 cylinder, 272 HP model as well. We tried several high performance braking events from 60-0 and the Mazda 6 felt surprisingly tight and strong, with no hint of brake fade or pedal mushiness. Cornering, the Mazda 6 feels tight and with good dampening and feedback.
Feeling sporty, yet not having to break the bank doing it? Then the 2010 Mazda 6 should be placed on top of your short list of contenders.
The Essentials:
MSRP: $23,750.00 MSRP (As tested): $24,930.00 for the i Touring Plus
MSRP pricing range: $18,600.00 for the i SV up to $28,540.00 for the s Grand Touring.
Fuel Economy (observed): 25.5 MPG
Engine: I-4, 2.5 liters, 170 HP
Popular Options: Sat. radio, Navigation.
visit: www.mazdausa.com