The Mazda 6 sedan is offered in two engines. The lively 2.5 liter 4 cylinder engine that promised 170 horsepower, or the powerful 3.7 liter V6 that cranks out a full 272 horsepower and delivers every ounce of power needed to move the sedan. The 4 cylinder comes in a six speed manual transmission, or a five speed automatic, but the V6 is only available with a six speed automatic. All of these engines offer decent gas mileage for the size, but gas mileage is still lower than most economically minded drivers would like to see.
The Mazda 6 sedan is available in six trim levels. The i Sport, i Touring, i Touring Plus, i Grand Touring are all offered with the 4 cylinder engine, while the s Touring Plus and s Grand Touring feature the V6 engine. All base models are well equipped, with the entry level i Sport featuring an MP3 player hookup, side and curtain airbags, stability control, traction control, keyless entry, 12V power outlets in front and rear for chargers, alloy trim on console and dash, auto-dimming interior mirror with compass and homelink.
The i Touring and s Touring Mazda 6 sedan features all of the above, as well as alloy wheels, overhead console with storage, speed proportional power steering, leather and alloy trim on shift knob and steering wheel, external temperature display, Bluetooth wireless data link for hands free phone use, and adjustable lumbar support in front seats.
The i Grand Touring and s Grand Touring package includes all base options from the Touring model, with added features such as heated front seats, power seat adjustments, leather upholstery, split folding rear seatback, dual zone climate controls for driver and passenger, front reading lights, Bose premium brand stereo system and speakers, in-dash 6 CD player with CD/MP3 playback, subwoofer, and an optional technology package.
All of the Mazda 6 sedan models have some of the best safety features on the market, such as 4 wheel ABS front and rear head airbags, child seat anchors, engine immobilizer, headrests in all rear seats, passenger seat airbag sensor deactivation, rear center 3 point harness belting, stability control, traction control, electronic brakeforce distribution, and tire pressure monitoring.
The Mazda 6 sedan introduces a new option for Mazda vehicles, the Technology package, which is available on the Grand Touring models. This package includes automatic xenon headlights, heated mirrors, auto dimmng rearview and driver side mirrors, driver memory settings, automatic wipers, power passenger seat and satellite radio. A 7 inch touchscreen onboard navigation system with voice activation and Bluetooth technology is also available. Other a la carte options are available in different trim levels and also include a rear spoiler, remote engine start and a chrome fuel filler door.
For a family car, the Mazda 6 sedan is surprisingly stylish and fun to drive, without sacrificing passenger comfort. Mazda has long been known for tight suspension and smooth steering, and the Mazda 6 is no exception. In a sea of sedans that all look the same, the Mazda 6 will never be lost in the parking lot, due to its distinctive profile and stylized face and headlights. The car is clearly designed for the driver in the family, and even the most discriminating cruiser will appreciate everything from the high driver's seat placement to the tightly buttoned down chassis that makes the ride quality top notch. The Mazda 6 sedan is worth a look, if what you're looking for is a midsize, fun to drive, smart looking sedan.