Mazda6 Part 3: Performance Review

The 2009 Mazda6 enters the highly contested mid-size sedan arena much better equipped than any of its predecessors. No longer smaller, less-powerful or less-well-equipped, the new 6 looks set to take the fight to the established players and make a name for itself at, or near, the top of its class.

While the new Mazda6 has grown considerably in every dimension, weight gain is thankfully marginal. This is without doubt due - at least partially - to Mazda's Zoom-Zoom philosophy. Much more than marketing hype, the Japanese company really does seem to inject some sort of dynamics pixie dust into each and every one of its products. If you don't believe me, do this: go out and test drive... a Mazda5 as an extreme example, and then compare it to any other mini-Minivan. Only then will you believe it: this Zoom-Zoom thing is for real.

Providing this new contender with its straight-line Zoom is a 272-horsepower V6 that makes nearly as much power as the last generation turbocharged Mazdaspeed6, but delivers it in a more civilized and refined manner. Shared with the company's CX-9 crossover, the engine in our s Grand Touring model was mated to a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission. Together, this combo is among the best drivetrains in the mid-size sedan category, delivering competitive numbers in both performance and fuel economy.

The benefits of keeping the Mazda's weight in check also pay off on the handling side of the performance equation. The 6 feels light on its Michelins, with directional changes that suggest Mazda engineers might have leaned toward the handling side of the ride-and-handling juggling act. The only real glaring fault is the steering, which feels over-boosted and lacks the communication skills necessary to really move the game on in this category. It's probably category correct to be fair, but with such fine handling from the Mazda's chassis, you can't help being a little disappointed.

Nothing to be displeased with regarding the ride quality, however, as the Mazda6 provides a surprisingly comfortable ride given its sporty handling characteristics. Those seeking even more back road fun would do well to ditch the all-season tires, as they limit the 6's ability to exploit its fine chassis. If you live anywhere it rains consistently or where that white stuff falls from the sky, please disregard that last comment.

The Mazda6 has managed to grow dimensionally to meet or exceed its main rivals in terms of space and comfort. Its powertrain, too, can now stand toe-to-toe with any of its competitors in both performance and economy. Even more impressive is that it managed this while avoiding the weight-gain that plagues most new cars.

Larger and more powerful than the model it replaces, and still more nimble than its main rivals, the 2009 Mazda6 has managed to improve its game considerably without sacrificing its maker’s Zoom-Zoom philosophy.

Watch the video
Read Part 1: Design
Read Part 2: Interior & User Experience

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