Stylish, spacious and efficient, Suzanne Keane finds lots to like about the Mazda6
What is it? Just over 2 years since the new 6 arrived in Ireland Mazda launched a facelifted version of their flagship model with a more refined exterior and interior and 2 new colours – Sonic Silver and Titanium Flash.
Who is it aimed at? Mazda have ensured there’s plenty of style, comfort and performance in the facelifted 6 and it’s ideal for those looking for a larger family car or something a little different to their neighbours SUV with plenty of space and a premium feel.
Styling? The changes to the outside of the Mazda 6 are subtle – just like the facelifted CX-5 it has gained LED headlights, redesigned tail lights and a more striking front grille. Smoked Grey 19” Alloys have also been introduced at Platinum grade. The Mazda 6 is without a doubt the best looking car in its class – especially in Soul Red Tourer guise. This car is a head turner and attracts plenty of attention on the street – surpassed only by its little brother the MX-5.
Under the Bonnet? We drove the Twin Turbo 2.2 Diesel (175bhp) Mazda 6 in both Automatic Saloon and Manual 6 speed Tourer versions (engine is also available as 150bhp). This car will do 0-100km in 8.4 seconds.
What about inside? Active Driving Display technology is now standard on the Mazda 6 along with a 7” touchscreen and full connectivity. The dashboard has been completely changed and if you opt for the Platinum spec you’ll get a head-up display and there really is a luxurious feel to the entire interior. Like the new CX-5 the materials inside feel premium but durable and it is a very well designed cabin. The saloon tested had a Stone leather finish which may be a good choice if you don’t have passengers who are likely to spill drinks all over the seats!
On the Road? The Mazda 6 is a big car but on the road it feels light and agile – it seems more suitable to Irish roads than when we tested it in Barcelona last year. The 2.2 Diesel engine has plenty of power without being noisy and handling is excellent. On motorways the suspension feels smooth but take it out on a windy road and it does feel quite sporty.
And Safety? Standard equipment includes Emergency Brake Assist and Electronic Brake Force Distribution with Stability control and Traction control. It has also received a 5 start Euro NCAP rating.
What are my Options? Unfortunately we only get the front wheel drive version in Ireland but you can choose between a saloon or estate and there are three trim levels available – Executive, Executive SE and Platinum. Engine options include 2.0 Petrol (165ps) and a 2.2 Diesel (150ps and 175ps) in both manual and automatic.
Will it break the bank? Prices start at €29,295 for the petrol version and the diesel starts at €29,995. The Tourer starts at €31,395 for a diesel “Executive” model. The model tested was a 2.2D Skyactiv-D in Platinum spec which costs €38,695. Official figures for fuel consumption state that the 2.2D will use 4.8l/100km in automatic version however even with my heavy right foot I found it to be quite economical in comparison to certain rivals with a lower official fuel consumption figure. Road tax will set you back €270/year.
So the verdict? I have driven the Mazda 6 in Barcelona at the launch and in both Saloon and Estate format in Ireland and each time has surpassed the previous experience. If I was in the market for a D Segment estate in the morning the Mazda 6 would be my first choice.
Why you’ll buy one? Comfort, Styling, Economy
Why you won’t? Price
Rivals
Skoda Superb
VW Passat
Ford Mondeo
Mazda 6 2.2 Skyactiv-D 175ps (automatic)
Engine: 2.2L Diesel 175PS@4,500rpm and 420Nm@2,000rpm
Max speed: 223kmph (216kmph for automatic)
0-100 kph: 7.9 sec (8.4 sec for automatic)
Emissions (Motor Tax): 127g (€270)
Model price range: €29,295 – €38,695
No of Doors: 4/5
Euro NCAP : 5 star
Fuel type: Diesel
Fuel Economy (combined cycle): 4.2l/100km (4.8l/100km for Automatic)
Boot Capacity Seats up: 480l (522l for tourer)
Car Seats: 2 Isofix fittings in the rear
Length: 4870mm
Width: 1840mm
Height: 1450mm
Wheelbase: 2830mm
For more information check out Mazda.ie, the Mazda Ireland Facebook page or follow them on twitter here
Suzanne Keane
26th January, 2016
