Mazda6 Part 1: Design Review

The 2009 Mazda6 is Mazda's first vehicle engineered, developed and manufactured in the U.S. Such is the importance of North American sales to the success of this newest Mazda sedan that the company felt compelled to create it on American soil. Ironically, one of the mission guidelines for the design of the Mazda6 was to reflect Japanese culture, aesthetics and spirit in its shape.

Where the previous model Mazda6 was one of the most overlooked and underrated cars on the market, Mazda's design staff has made sure that there will be no overlooking this new model. From its almond-shaped headlights to its flush exhaust outlets, this car is definitely a looker.

In a category that takes little risk - think Toyota Camry - it's refreshing to see a company really go-for-it in terms of design. And go for it they did, with an emotional and dynamic shape that flies in the face of the conservative and predictable exterior designs of most of its competitors. Nowhere is this more evident than at the front of the Mazda6 where the car's face looks elegant and confident. Contributing to that effect are the beautifully shaped headlights and the pronounced fender forms that follow behind them, accentuating the car's wheels while helping to alleviate the very long front overhang. Additionally, the full-width lower graphic - bookmarked by a pair of driving lights - gives the car a planted-to-the-road look.

Another mission guideline for the design team was to instill the soul of a sportscar into the Mazda6 by evolving the company's Zoom-Zoom spirit. Thus the perfect man to direct the effort was chief designer Youichi Sato, who was also responsible for two generations of RX-7s as well as the second generation MX-5 Miata.

Evidence of its sportscar-soul is sprinkled all around the Mazda6. The fenders recall those of the company's RX-8 sportscar, and combined with the aggressive looking wheels, give the car an athletic stance that is reinforced by the arched fenders. The simple character line that starts aft of the front fender and runs the length of the car, wrapping into the trunk with a slight kick-up, adds a dynamic element that also speaks to the company's Zoom-Zoom corporate theme.

Around the back of the 6, we find more proof of Mazda's extensive efforts to raise the game within this category. Standard on the Grand Touring model, the LED taillights and the stylish, flush-fitting exhaust tips - both expensive elements to incorporate at this price point - highlight the extensive attention to detail found on the Mazda6.

The Mazda6 not only meets its mission guidelines perfectly, it also represents a well-conceived, all-out assault on the highly contested mid-size sedan category. Reflecting its Japanese heritage in its sophisticated and distinctive style and its sportscar soul in its dynamic design details, the 2009 Mazda6 is sure to shake up the established players in this class as it moves up from also-ran status to a legitimate front runner.

Watch the video
Read Part 2: Interior & User Experience
Read Part 3: Performance

Mazda6 s Grand Touring

Performance
- Acceleration: Brisk performance means the 6 is in contention for top honors within its class
- Handling: Proof positive that Zoom-Zoom is more than marketing hype - the nimblest feeling car in the category
- Braking: Stable and effective, as well as a bit lively... no worries thanks to excellent stability control though

Design
- Exterior: Refreshing to see someone take a chance in this ultra-conservative class - easily the best looking car in the segment
- Interior: Not as fresh as the exterior styling, but still quite nice with good materials and finishes

Utility
- Comfort: Seats are great front and rear - ergonomics also spot-on
- Space: Addresses the previous model's lack of space and then some - among the largest cabins in its class

Safety
- Dynamics: With its dynamically minded chassis, the 6 handles evasive maneuvers quite well
- Technology: Manufacturers can't afford to take any chances in this class by omitting safety systems to save a buck - the 6 has every system and airbag you'd expect

Value
- Price: Important in this category, the 6 is competitively priced and should finally see its sales numbers climb to among those of the class leaders
- Mileage: Obviously the four-cylinder would do better, but the six in the 6 is once again class competitive in this regard

Emotional Appeal
- Heart thumpin' factor: Not in this segment... sorry
- Fun to spank: Relative to its competitors? Yeah, not too shabby and more fun than anything else in this class

SPECIFICATIONS

Layout: Front engine / Front-wheel drive
Engine: 3.7 liter, V6
Power (SAE): 272 hp @ 6250 rpm
Torque: 269 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm
Gearbox: 6-speed automatic
Curb Weight: 3555 lbs.
0-60 mph: 6.2 sec.
1/4 mile: 14.7 @ 97 mph
Top Speed: 131 mph (electronically limited)
Mileage: 17 city / 25 highway
Base Price: $28,930
Competitors: Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Toyota Camry, Chevrolet Malibu