Mazda gets its message across loud and clear
The good news for the Japanese firm is that the Mazda 6 is an incredibly sleek and stylish car
Even then it’s not the value proposition. The Sport SE, with its impressive trim, is just shy of €36,000. That’s the top-end market for rivals and within shooting distance of the premium-brand family entrants.
Best-looking family saloon
So, despite coming up with the best-looking family saloon out there at present, Mazda will need to add smaller engines to the range or adjust its prices to find a market for this car. The brand has lost a lot of ground lately to the vibrant Korean brands, and the new Hyundai i40 will undoubtedly win over some potential Mazda customers with its strong offering and price. Yet if the new Mazda6 does fit within your budget then you would be silly to ignore it. It should be on the shortlist for anyone considering a mid-range Mondeo, Avensis or Passat.
It might not be the car that rescues Mazda from the doldrums but it’s a big step in the right direction.
The lowdown
Engine:2191cc four-cylinder diesel putting out 150bhp @ 4,500rpm and 380Nm of torque from 2,000rpm
0-100km/h:9.0 seconds
Emissions (motor tax):108g/km (€190)
Fuel economy:4.1 L/100km (67 mpg)
Features: Standard on all: Dynamic stability control; dual front, side and curtain airbags; hill hold assist; alarm and immobiliser; 17-inch alloys; electric door mirrors (heated on Sport and Sport SE versions); air-con; Halogen daytime running lights; 60/40 split rear seat; USB/Aux/iPod connection; radio/CD with four speakers; Bluetooth; 5.8-inch colour touchscreen. Sport version features: heated door mirrors; dualzone air-con; six speakers; parking sensors front and rear; rain-sensing wipers; smart city brake support; tinted glass. Sport SE version features: Electrically powered heated front seats; leather seats; Bixenon lights and LED daytime running lights; 19-inch alloys; 11 Bose stereo system with 11 speakers.
Price: €35,895 for Sport SE (starts at €28,745 for 2-litre petrol 145bhp and €31,795 for diesel Sport)
Rivals: Ford Mondeo 4dr 2.0 TDCi 160bhp Titanium €34,135; Volkswagen Passat 2.0 TDi 140bhp Highline €34,985; Toyota Avensis 2.2 D-4D 150bhp Luna €34,165; Peugeot 508 2.0 Hdi Allure 140bhp €33,190; Opel Insignia 2.0 CDTi 160bhp Elite €34,380; Skoda Superb 2.0 TDi 170bhp Elegance €32,810
