The
Mazda 6 was completely redesigned for 2009;
the new model offers more power options, new transmissions, a more
sophisticated design, and extra standard technology. Unlike in past years where hatchback and wagon versions have
been available, the 2009 Mazda 6 only comes in a sedan body style.
Inline-four-cylinder (in "i" models) and V-6 ("s" models)
engines are available in the Sport, Touring and Grand Touring trim
levels. There's also a bare-bones SV trim level that gets only the
four-cylinder. Virtually every dimension inside and out has
increased for 2009, making the Mazda 6 closer in size to other sport
sedans in its class. The
2009 Mazda 6 is unique because for the first time in Mazda 6 history,
this one has been designed expressly for the North American market
and is considerably bigger than the overseas version. The benefits
of the Mazda 6 include its attractive design, performance of the V6
engine, responsive steering and handling, and its high quality
cabin. The downsides to
the Mazda 6 include its poor gas mileage (compared to others in its
class), its poor graphics on the navigation system's, and its noisy
four-cylinder engine.
The 2009 Mazda Mazda 6 gets an EPA Fuel Economy of City: 17 - 21 and
Highway: 25 - 30, and has a starting MSRP of $18,550 - $28,465.
Power for Mazda 6
For transmissions, a six-speed manual is available for the V4s in
the name of Mazda's reputation for performance. There are also two
automatic transmission offerings: the four-cylinder engine can have
an optional five-speed automatic transmission. For 2009, the
four-cylinder has been bumped from 2.3 to 2.5 liters, now at 170 hp,
right in line with the base engine from Accord, Altima, Camry and
Malibu.
Although the Mazda 6 has gained weight with the
added dimensions and features, it has also gained power, especially on
the V6 models. The Mazda 6 features a front and rear independent
suspension and each Mazda 6 model has its own calibrations for the
same suspension system. At the top extreme, a V6 on 18-inch wheels
has plenty of grip and surprisingly good sharp-impact rejection but
it is on the firm side.
Regardless of engine and tire size all Mazda 6 models have natural
stability and a good sense of control.
Mazda 6 Design
The Mazda 6 has now been infused with what
designers call a "Japanese aesthetic". The vehicle looks much
different than the 2008 model, it now sports a long hood with
pronounced front fender flares that flow through the headlamps and
mold with the front bumper. Although both Mazda and Acura use a
five-sided grille, Mazda's has a deeper V-shape to it and it's all
body-colored. Fog lights are set in horizontal openings but the
lights themselves are vertically-oriented. The 2009 Mazda 6 is half a
foot longer than the 2008 version, with 4.5 inches added to
wheelbase and 2.3 inches to width. The last Mazda 6 was small for its
class. Mazda knew this
was an issue, and has now made the American version different than
the rest of the world's Mazda 6
The Mazda 6 is now slightly longer and wider than the Malibu, but is
still smaller than the Accord.
Cabin Features
The cabin of the Mazda 6 has also gotten a
redesign and update. New rounded instruments and a three-spoke
steering wheel integrate nicely into the T-shaped instrument panel.
The seats are cloth on the SV and Sport, and have the same support
and comfort as the upper trim lines, lacking only the extra degrees
of power adjustment. Touring uses cloth cushion and backrest centers
with leather outboard. Cargo space is excellent in the Mazda 6; as
the 16.6 cubic feet of volume covers the class.
The car's sweeping roofline makes the vertical opening much
larger than the depth aspect. The rear seats offer spacious room, a
center armrest, and a 60/40 split seatback that's easy to fold.
Mazda 6 Sedan Lineup
The Mazda 6i SV comes with air conditioning,
power windows/locks/mirrors, tilt/telescope steering wheel with
audio controls, 60/40 folding rear seat, floor and cargo mats, map
lights, illuminated vanity mirrors, outside temperature display and
Sirius radio-ready.
Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring trim packages
are available for each model. The Mazda 6 i Sport and Mazda 6 S Sport
get an auxiliary audio input jack, cruise control, remote keyless
entry and auto-down front windows.
Mazda 6 i Touring models get a 17-inch
tire/wheel combination and fog lights, power driver seat, leather
wheel/shifter, center console sliding armrest, electroluminescent
gauges with trip computer, antitheft system, and advanced key with
pushbutton start. Mazda 6 S Touring models get all these upgrades
plus 235/45WR18 tires on alloy wheels.
Grand Touring trim includes everything on
Touring plus leather seats (heated in front) with three-position
memory, auto-dimming (heated outside) mirrors, blind spot monitor
system, auto headlamps, LED tail-lamps, rain-sensing wipers, Xenon
headlamps, Bluetooth, dual-zone climate control, HomeLink, welcome
lighting, and a power passenger seat. Mazda 6s Grand Touring adds
18-inch tires.
Summary
Safety features for the 2009 Mazda 6 include
front, front-side and side-curtain airbags, electronic stability
control, traction control and ABS. The Blind Spot Monitor is
standard Grand Touring and available on Touring. For another look,
read a Mazda 6 review by JD Power. With the 2009 model, you get
nothing but value in the Mazda Mazda 6.