2004 Mazda Mazda6 New Car Buyer's Guide

What's New for the 2004 Mazda Mazda6?
Two new body configurations join the Mazda 6 family: a station wagon and a five-door hatchback. The hatchback may be powered by a 160-horsepower 2.3-liter inline four-cylinder engine or a 220-horsepower 3.0-liter V6, while the wagon comes only with the V6. Three new option packages also debut. The Luxury package adds an eight-way power driver’s seat with lumbar support, leather seat upholstery with heated front seats, heated door mirrors and electroluminescent gauges with red nighttime illumination. The Security package offers drivers ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), traction control, side airbags and side air curtains, and a perimeter anti-theft alarm. The Chrome Appearance package includes chrome side moldings, rear finisher and grille. It also will be possible to order the Sport package with or without the rear wing spoiler, for those looking for a less aggressive appearance. All models equipped with a V6 engine will get standard 17-inch alloy wheels, and two new colors debut.

Advantages of the 2004 Mazda Mazda6:

• Fun-to-drive character belies sensible family vehicle image
• Solid build quality
• Available in three configurations to suit individual needs
• Good crash test scores

Objections to the 2004 Mazda Mazda6:

• Engines could use more zoom-zoom
• Rear seat is tighter than some competitors

Editor's Advice:
For those who need the convenience of four doors and a back seat with enough room for adults yet yearn for the soul of a sports car, the 2004 Mazda 6 comes in three sensible body configurations to disguise the racy speedster hiding underneath. The Mazda 6 sedan is a handsome piece, equipped with a traditional trunk and a folding rear seat. The Mazda 6 hatchback holds 58.7 cubic feet of your stuff, while the Mazda 6 wagon offers 60.4 cubic feet of cargo space. No matter which model you choose, the 2004 Mazda 6 drives beautifully, with more than a healthy dose of thrills for the driver. But how does it stack up against its formidable competition – such as the Honda Accord, Nissan Altima and Toyota Camry – as a family transporter? Adult rear seat occupants, while not uncomfortable, are not as happy as those riding in other midsize models. Refinement and perceived power is also lacking from the Mazda’s two engine choices. Despite this, the 2004 Mazda 6 excels above all three mainstream Japanese sedans in terms of driver pleasure. Near-telepathic steering, world-class underpinnings and powerful brakes make you search out curvy canyon roads for some high-speed action. Plus, the cabin is comfortable up front with an upscale ambience uncommon for the class. If you’re not ready to trade in the sports car for a family truckster, the 2004 Mazda 6 manages to successfully blend both worlds.