2014 Mazda Mazda6: A mid-size sedan minus the boredom behind the wheel
As it sits now though, the gas-powered Mazda6 is a bit of a driving revelation in its class. It may seem as if the power figure sounds a bit low, but it’s right in line with the competition. Mazda sees the Nissan Altima, Honda Accord, and Volkswagen Passat as its main bit of competition. All are priced nearly the same, have similar power figures, and get relatively similar fuel economy numbers, with the exception of the gas-swilling Passat. None of the competition, however, delivers as enthusiastic of a driving experience.
Mazda is the Zoom-Zoom company, and every vehicle in its lineup reflects this ideal. The 2014 Mazda6 is no exception. Steering feel is excellent, and turn-in is crisp. The manual shift lever slots confidently into each gear, while the automatic responds quickly with a light touch of the paddle. The suspension is setup right in the middle of the firm-comfort balance so that the passengers have the same smile as the driver when the car is pressed into action. When it’s time to slow the action down, the brakes are progressive and responsive. There’s no funny business, just smooth braking action. This is a driver’s mid-size sedan, which isn’t something that the rest of the competition can rightfully lay claim to. Yes, the new Accord offers a surprising amount of fun, the new Altima is far better than what it replaced, and the Passat is the most premium entry in this group. None of them drive as well as the Mazda 6… and not one can hold a candle to the car when it comes to styling.