Mazda 6 Review: Why It's Still the Best Driving Mid-Size Sedan

For years, Mazda has carved a unique niche in the automotive world, appealing to those who appreciate driving pleasure even in everyday vehicles. The Mazda 6, a mid-size sedan, perfectly embodies this philosophy. Even with some aspects showing their age, the core driving experience of the Mazda 6 remains unmatched in its class. Having spent considerable time behind the wheel of the latest Mazda 6, it’s clear why it continues to be lauded as the best driving entry in the mid-size sedan segment, even when compared to newer rivals. From its responsive steering to its finely tuned chassis, the Mazda 6 delivers a level of engagement that is rare in mainstream sedans.

What exactly makes a car “normal”? In the automotive context, it often refers to vehicles designed primarily for basic transportation. These are the cars that millions rely on daily for commuting, family errands, and routine journeys. While functionality is key, many drivers seek more than just point A to point B transportation. They desire a car that can inject some enjoyment into the driving experience. This is where Mazda distinguishes itself, and the Mazda 6 is a prime example. While competitors like the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Chevrolet Malibu offer compelling packages, the Mazda 6 presents a unique proposition for those who prioritize driving dynamics. Let’s delve into what makes the Mazda 6 so special.

The Unrivaled Driving Experience of the Mazda 6

The defining characteristic of the Mazda 6, and indeed the entire modern Mazda lineup, is its exceptional driving dynamics. It’s evident that the engineers behind the Mazda 6 are passionate about driving. Their enthusiasm translates directly into the car’s feel and responsiveness. Every input, from steering to braking and throttle, feels natural and intuitive. The Mazda 6 creates a sense of connection between driver and machine that is often absent in its rivals.

Take the Mazda 6 to winding roads, and its true character shines. Even on public roads, the Mazda 6 transforms from a comfortable family sedan into an engaging and surprisingly agile machine. The chassis strikes an excellent balance, providing both a comfortable ride for daily commutes and impressive control when cornering. The suspension effectively absorbs bumps and imperfections, maintaining composure even when encountering mid-corner undulations that can unsettle less refined vehicles. The front end of the Mazda 6 is particularly noteworthy for its sharpness and resistance to understeer, a common trait in front-wheel-drive cars. Crucially, it provides genuine feedback to the driver, enhancing the sense of control and engagement. The rear of the car follows suit, responding predictably to inputs, allowing drivers to confidently explore the car’s capabilities. Body roll is present, but it’s controlled and contributes to the overall feel, providing valuable feedback as weight shifts during cornering. This predictable and communicative nature instills confidence, making the Mazda 6 a car you can truly lean on and trust.

Torque steer, a common issue in powerful front-wheel-drive cars, is remarkably absent in the Mazda 6. The steering remains composed and free from unwanted wriggling, even under hard acceleration. While the front-wheel-drive configuration becomes apparent in tight, second-gear corners, the Mazda 6 still manages power delivery effectively. In most driving situations, the front wheels confidently put power down, pulling the car through corners with surprising ease, even with the available 250 horsepower turbocharged engine. For those opting for the base naturally aspirated engine, wheelspin is unlikely to be a concern.

Beyond spirited driving, the Mazda 6 excels in everyday driving scenarios. The ride quality remains excellent, ensuring comfort for both the driver and passengers on various road surfaces. At highway speeds, the cabin is quiet, facilitating relaxed conversations and reducing fatigue on long journeys. The Mazda 6 also exhibits impressive stability at speed, tracking straight and requiring minimal steering corrections, further enhancing its suitability for comfortable cruising. In essence, the Mazda 6 delivers a driving experience that is not only engaging but also refined and comfortable, making it a standout in its segment.

The Surprisingly Premium Interior of the Mazda 6

Mazda interiors have consistently punched above their weight, offering a level of quality and design that often surpasses expectations for the price point. The Mazda 6 is no exception. While the overall cabin layout might not be overtly extravagant compared to some rivals, the materials and build quality are exceptional for a car in this class. The leather seats and microsuede trim in higher trims exude a premium feel, and hard plastics are used sparingly and strategically, minimizing any sense of cheapness. Notably, the seats are upholstered in Nappa leather, a feature typically found in much more expensive luxury vehicles.

The attention to detail extends to the tactile experience of interacting with the car’s controls. Buttons and switchgear feel substantial and operate with satisfying clicks and feedback. Metallic trim accents further elevate the interior ambiance. Driver comfort is clearly a priority, with supportive and well-shaped seats and a comfortable driving position that accommodates a wide range of body types. The overall impression is one of understated luxury, leading many to draw comparisons between modern Mazda interiors and those of premium brands like BMW. While initial impressions from photos might not fully convey the interior’s quality, spending time inside the Mazda 6 reveals a cabin that is genuinely a pleasant place to be. Even in the higher-spec Signature trim, which commands a reasonable price, the interior represents exceptional value and a truly enjoyable space for both driver and passengers.

Performance and Engine Options of the Mazda 6

The Mazda 6 offers a compelling balance of performance and efficiency. While not a sports sedan in the traditional sense, the available turbocharged 2.5-liter ‘SkyActiv’ inline-four engine provides ample power for most driving situations. On premium fuel, this engine delivers 250 horsepower and a generous 320 lb-ft of torque, available from a low 2,500 RPM. Even on regular fuel, the engine still produces a respectable 227 horsepower. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. Despite its age, this transmission performs admirably, offering smooth and responsive shifts. Grip is readily available, even with traction control disabled, allowing for confident acceleration. In independent testing, the Mazda 6 has achieved a 0-60 mph time of around 6.4 seconds, which is competitive for the mid-size sedan class.

However, the true strength of the turbocharged engine lies in its midrange torque. From around 2,000 RPM, the engine delivers strong and readily accessible power, making highway merging and passing maneuvers effortless. In manual mode, the transmission responds well to paddle shifter inputs, allowing drivers to exploit the engine’s powerband effectively, particularly in the midrange. For enthusiasts, the Mazda 6’s chassis could easily handle even more power, highlighting its inherent dynamic capabilities.

While the automatic transmission is generally smooth and responsive, it does show its age in certain areas. During aggressive acceleration testing, upshifts near redline can feel somewhat leisurely compared to more modern transmissions. While Mazda’s decision to stick with a proven and reliable six-speed unit is understandable, an update to a more modern transmission with more gears would likely improve both performance and fuel economy. The six-speed also results in slightly higher cruising RPMs at highway speeds, impacting fuel efficiency. Nevertheless, the Mazda 6 still achieves respectable fuel economy figures, with highway MPG reaching around 35 and an average of 27 MPG in mixed driving conditions.

Areas Where the Mazda 6 Could Improve

Despite its many strengths, the Mazda 6 is not without its shortcomings. The most significant area needing improvement is its infotainment system. While forgivable a few years ago, the infotainment technology in the Mazda 6 now feels dated compared to newer competitors. The eight-inch screen is small by modern standards, and the graphics lack sharpness. The rotary controller, while functional, can make navigating menus somewhat cumbersome, requiring multiple steps to access certain functions. The newer 10-inch system found in models like the Mazda 3 represents a significant improvement and would be a welcome upgrade for the Mazda 6. The current system feels particularly out of place in the otherwise refined and upscale cabin. Similarly, the resolution of the rearview camera is also below par and could benefit from an update. Modernizing the infotainment system would significantly enhance the overall ownership experience of the Mazda 6 and bring its technology in line with its other strengths.

Final Verdict: The Enduring Appeal of the Mazda 6

Even with its aging infotainment system, the Mazda 6 remains a highly desirable mid-size sedan. It stands out by injecting a genuine sense of driving enjoyment and sophistication into a segment often characterized by bland practicality. The Mazda 6’s exceptional driving dynamics are a testament to Mazda’s commitment to driver engagement. With some updates, particularly to its technology, the Mazda 6 would be an even more formidable competitor. However, as it stands, it delivers a driving experience that is unmatched in its class, offering a unique blend of fun, refinement, and everyday usability. For those who prioritize driving pleasure and appreciate a touch of class, the Mazda 6 is still the king of the mid-size sedan segment.

2021 Mazda 6 Turbo Signature

As-Tested Price: $37,290

Pros: