Yahoo Autos Updated 2016 Mazda6 remains fun, but limited
Mazda’s midsized family sedan is refreshed for 2016, building upon its attractive styling, agile handling, and impressive fuel economy. But it is a car that goes up against tough, balanced competitors with few tricks up its sleeves.
The 2016 is distinguished by a light exterior freshening, with a revised grille, headlamps, decklid spoiler, and wheels. The real changes are inside, where the Mazda6 gets a redesigned center stack and an entirely new control setup. Available on all versions, save for the manual-equipped sport trim, the controls include a dial-joystick down by the shifter that interfaces with a high-mounted screen to access all audio, phone, and navigation functions.
When in park, the digital screen has full touch capabilities, but when in drive, all but the most basic functions are blocked out. Underway, you must rely on the controller knob and the convenient toggles on the steering wheel. There is definitely a learning curve here, but once mastered, it turns out to be logical.
Unlike many typical midsized sedans, such as the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, the Mazda6 is more agile in the corners, making it a compelling choice for an enthusiast with a growing family. That said, it’s not quite as rewarding to drive as a Ford Fusion.
Coming from a sports car, one might forgive the firm ride, but we think most consumers will regard the 6 to be stiff and uncomfortable. Pair that with an excessive amount of noise emanating from the road and wind and you have the makings of a relatively harsh commute experience compared with most of its competitors, particularly the Subaru Legacy and Toyota Camry.
The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is carried over from last year. It still makes 184 horsepower and requires a deliberate prod to get the car to move smartly. If you opt for the Grand Touring version with the technology package, you get i-ELOOP that regenerates energy from coasting and braking to recharge the alternator thus assisting fuel economy.
When we last tested the Mazda6, it got an impressive 32 mpg overall—best in class if you don’t count hybrid and diesel-powered models.
Taller drivers might take issue with the low-slung driving position of the Mazda6. You’re likely to put up with such an inconvenience if slithering behind the wheel of a Porsche 911, but such a limitation is rare in this mainstream class.
If you don’t feel like following the pack with a family sedan—with options like the Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, or Nissan Altima just too boring for your liking—the Mazda6 is a young, individualistic choice that blends style, sportiness, and advanced features.
—George Kennedy
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