The Mazda 6 was something of a departure for me. Having been spoiled by the Audi A4 and more latterly the Mercedes C240 (both 2nd hand of course) the time had come for some affordable style, practicality and common sense(2nd hand of course). The '6' scores heavily in both departments. I bought mine at 6 months old on a '53 plate and with 8K on the clock. This followed a lot of research on the rivals, a tight budget and a very open mind.
Styling is sleek with a high bootline that bears a passing resemblance to the Lexus. This does hinder rear visibility particularly if fitted with a spoiler, so a reversing aid may cushion your wallet. The front slopes away and you need to watch the lower spoiler against kerbs. Crisp handling comes as standard and the car sits on the road with a re-assurance that well paid executives will be familiar with. This comes courtesy of the 205/55's on 16" alloys.
Engines are refined although cabin noise can intrude above 65mph. Performance is lively, if not outstanding, performing best at high rev's in 2nd and 3rd. Fuel economy is good, although the '6' has one of those gauges that dosen't move for the first 100 miles, then drops almost as sharply as shares in M&S, giving a false sense of consumption.
Build quality is excellent with a satisfying clunk to the doors. Cabin styling follows the brushed aluminium type with plenty of stowage, although they have made some economies in quality if you look closely. The stereo is adequate, if not interchangeable, although speaker quality could be improved. Rear seats fold flat at the flick of a switch providing smug, fuss free versatility. Seats offer good support but follow the black and chrome theme - so be prepared to get the hoover out. Dials are clear (back lit with red) and the overall impression is one of efficiency and refinement. The level of standard equipment is excellent.
All round disc brakes are the business but you may be surprised by the rapid build up of dust on the front alloys.
Under the bonnet, the only things you need to check are the bits painted yellow (oil, water etc.) the rest it takes care of itself.
In my view the Mazda 6 is a class leader that offers more personality than its fairly anonymous rivals. This is borne out by the increasing numbers you are seeing on the road - testament to the value for money offered by this package. Residuals should establish in line with the cars reputation, build quality and reliability, but are unlikely to match the Honda.
Regrets? -None. Enjoyable to drive, stylish and versatile. You won't be disappointed - nor will you look silly if you are in the 17-65 age group... in fact compared with the merc, it's taken 10 years off me (and counting).
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This is a great first review - a much higher standard than normal (he said, patronisingly!) To get the higher ratings, I'm guessing you probably need to cover more areas - the driving experience would have been more interesting for me, for example. Like your writing style though - easy to read, intelligent and articulate. Stick around! :O)
MAFARRIMOND 06.09.2004 09:05
Shame there isn't a photograph displayed of the car. Welcome to Ciao. Maureen
Advantages: Looks, build, performance, refinement, reliability, lovely small V6 engine, minor classic Disadvantages: Saloon only available, repairs can be expensive, steering feel, limited space
zephyr4 18.10.2009 (23.10.2009)
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