The Mazda6 is not for everyone.
At A Glance
Style
CO2 A car inspired by a Japanese sword was never going to look predictable. Say konnichiwa to the Mazda6.
With its smooth curves and razor-sharp edges, the Mazda6 is a masterclass in sports car styling. And by moving the contours of the roofline slightly further back, the Mazda designers have created an athletic silhouette that doesn’t compromise interior space or visibility.
The ergonomically-designed cockpit has a luxurious, wraparound feel. But you’ll never feel confined. The floating-look instrument panel infuses the space with light.
Sports car outside. Luxury inside. That’s certainly out of the box.
Engine
There’s nothing sedate about the MZR-CD 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine.
With class-leading acceleration and quietness, this engine feels powerful yet smooth, even at high speeds. It’s also surprisingly fuel efficient, achieving combined figures between 5.6 l/100km (50.4 mpg) and 5.5 l/100km (51.3 mpg) depending on the power derivative. The 185 ps engine has a maximum torque of 400Nm and produces just 149g of CO2 per km - keeping all the Mazda6 2.2 diesel derivatives in Band C of the Irish Road Tax. Genius.
Alternatively, the MZR 1.8-litre and 2.0-litre petrol engines are classed way above average for reliability, power and fuel efficiency. With this engine line up, the Mazda6 isn't middle of the road.
Technology
The Mazda6 is made for safer, everyday driving. Just consider these not-so-everyday safety features.
The Rear Vehicle Monitor (RVM) makes motorway driving easier. It alerts you to other drivers in your blindspot or approaching at high speeds, so you’ll always know when it’s safe to change lanes.
And if that doesn’t make you feel more serene, the Cross-Functional Network (CF-Net) coordinates the audio, navigation, climate control and Bluetooth systems and allows you to change the central display using the steering wheel controls. Brave new world indeed.
Performance
The Mazda6 was made for crowds - even if it doesn’t follow them.
It’s longer, wider...and lighter. So while other new cars are gaining weight, the Mazda6 feels surprisingly quick and agile, even when it’s full of passengers. And because it’s built with rigid high-tensile steel, there’s no compromise on stability.
With more mounting points in the suspension, handling feels secure at high speeds. The aerodynamic curves minimise wind drag and Mazda have even improved their sound-absorbing materials, so the cabin stays quiet.
That’s worth shouting about.
