Mazda 6

Sporty and stylish, the Mazda6 is an enjoyable car to drive, although it's a bit on the snug side compared to its peers. The standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder is responsive and delivered 28 mpg overall in our tests. The uplevel turbocharged engine makes the 6 quieter and much quicker. We found the 6 to be agile and capable in the corners with sharp steering and composed suspension. The ride is pliant and controlled, effectively absorbing bumps. The cabin is quiet and nicely furnished, but the low stance and relatively tight quarters are notable. A center display screen that is operated via a central knob on the console takes practice to master. Apple CarPlay compatibility is new. Forward-collision warning, city-speed automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot warning are standard.

This edition of the Mazda6 arrived as a 2014 model on a new platform. We got an excellent 32 mpg overall from the smooth four-cylinder and six-speed automatic. Acceleration doesn't suffer for fuel economy, with the Mazda6 returning slightly above average performance. The car is also agile and capable in corners, with a taut but firm ride. However, the cabin is loud, particularly on the highway; updates for 2016 helped some. The well-finished cabin has supportive seats, although the rear seats are relatively tight for this class. The infotainment system uses a console-mounted knob; figuring out how to use the system takes some time. Among the optional active safety features are blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. Reliability and satisfaction have both been above average.

An improved version of the Mazda6 debuted for 2009, proving to be among the sportiest of family sedans. In addition to being fun to drive, it is roomy, quiet, and quick. It also has a high-quality interior -- though road noise is a bit pronounced and we noted a few misaligned trim pieces. Similarly, while the rear seat is roomier than the one in the previous version of the car, the Mazda's stylishly low roofline inhibits access compared to its forebear.

The Mazda6 debuted in 2003 with a firm, yet compliant ride. The car also boasts excellent handling, as well as a spacious and comfortable interior. The trunk is sized nicely and the split rear seatbacks are spring-loaded, so they fold down with the pull of a lever. Nicely detailed, the interior is also readily accessible. However, the four-cylinder engine doesn't feel refined and while the V6 is quick, it's also thirsty. Tight maneuvering is somewhat hampered by a 41-foot turning circle. Wagon and hatchback versions became available in 2004. The car scored Poor in the IIHS side-crash test without the optional side airbags, but these became standard equipment for 2007.