Mazda 6 BRIEF ENCOUNTER

Review & Photos by Leo Kimitri

What you’re looking at is “The most important car Mazda has ever made”, according to the company itself. 

Mazda might have been selling cars in Europe since the ‘60s, but despite a few cult models, many car buyers wouldn’t even consider stopping at their local Mazda dealer.

Mazda hopes to change that with its new 6 though, which it’s billing as a premium product, one rung above popular models such as the Ford Mondeo and Vauxhall Insignia. Ambitiously targeted against high end models like BMW’s 3 Series and Audi’s A4, the new 6 is a sharp looking machine. This 6’s concept car curves alone should whet the appetite of many prospective buyers. But does the car have the talent to back up the looks? 

Out on the road, the 6 devours corners with enthusiasm thanks to firm suspension and accurate, if slightly light steering. The ride is compliant enough to absorb rough roads without drama, making the 6 equally adept at soaking up motorway miles as tackling twisty A roads. Likewise the brakes stop the car with ease, while the slick gearchange makes getting back up to speed painless. 

With hefty 19 inch alloy wheels in Sport specification, the 6 grips doggedly through bends, though the wheels‘ unusual proportions mean that new tyres will set you back over £200 per corner for a recognisable brand. 

In terms of propulsion, the 6 is available with a pair of diesel engines plus two petrols. The diesels come in 148bhp and 173bhp flavours and both have more than enough oomph for rapid motorway trips and pull strongly from very low revs. 

The lower powered engine whisks the 6 to 62mph in nine seconds while the 173bhp motor takes just 7.9 seconds; impressive considering both officially return safely over 60mpg. These engines are also notably smooth and refined and the car quiet at speed, with just slightly high road noise spoiling the picture. 

The 173bhp version provides a healthy step up in performance over the 148bhp model with comparable real world economy and starts at £25,495 for top line Sport specification. However, a more palatable £21,795 will get you the keys to the 148bhp variant.

After these diesels, the 163bhp petrol motor appears redundant, feeling slightly noisier and less potent than either diesel. It is fun to drive, growling nicely at higher revs, but for most people the more frugal diesels make more sense.

Sadly the 6’s interior misses out on the exterior’s chic lines feeling bland compared to premium rivals. Space, quality and comfort seem fine, though the 6’s sheer size makes parking challenging; the optional parking sensors might come in useful!

Tech Data

Price: £25,495
Engine: 2.2 litre 16v 173bhp - 0-62mph: 7.9secs - Maximum Speed: 139mph
Economy: 51.4mpg (urban) - 72.4mpg (extra-urban), 62.8mpg (combined) - Emissions: 119g/km (Band C) - VED (12 months): £30
Dimensions: Length: 4870mm - Width: 1840mm - Height: 1450mm - Wheelbase: 2830mm
*data from Mazda UK

DriverVIBE Verdict

Thanks to Mazda’s decision to move the car upmarket, the 6 is no bargain. However, you do get a lot for your money and the 6 definitely has kerb appeal. The 6 compares positively against similarly priced rivals with impressive performance and economy and it is also significantly cheaper and better equipped than premium rivals. As the 6 performs well on tarmac too, it’s a sound buy for anyone looking for a striking, speedy and frugal saloon.

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