8: Mazda 6 – Revamped family saloon delivers satisfaction

Freshly updated (yet again) the Mazda 6 proves that a big family four-door saloon can still be one of the most satisfying cars around (especially if you do the right thing and go for the handsome, versatile, estate).

The new grille and lights add a rather surprising level of freshness to the otherwise familiar looks, while the few tweaks to the cabin lift what was already an impressive level of fit and finish.

A shame that the infotainment system is so old-fashioned but we’d be prepared to live with that because the 6 is so darned good to drive.

Sharp steering, a responsive chassis, and a comfortable ride quality remind you of what life was like before SUVs. The 2.2 diesel engine is best-sampled in 150hp form (don’t bother with the 180hp version) but the 2.0-litre petrol feels a touch flat. We don’t get the new, very smooth, surprisingly economical 2.5 petrol and more’s the shame.