Mazda6 2.5 R (A) vs Suzuki Kizashi 2.4 (A) vs Toyota Camry 2.0 (A)
03 Apr 2013|39,823 views
By now you might have read reviews of Mazda's latest flagship, or even seen it in the flesh. The Mazda6 is no stranger to the family man's party, or any less attention seeking. In fact, few other carmakers in its segment can lay claim to building desirable, yet practical performance saloons - such as the 268bhp tarmac-scorching Mazda6 MPS.
The Kizashi, on the other hand, marks Suzuki's debut in the big boys' game. While being the most 'dated' among the trio (it first landed in 2010), the current model gets a slightly spruced-up look with the K-Sport package.
The same, however, could not have been said about the Camry and Mazda6. Both are results of continual evolution, with ancestry roots dating back to the 'tin can' heydays. And as with experience, excellence is expected.
Exterior
Mazda took a leaf out of its recent 'KODO' cookbook and made the Mazda6. It is fair to say that Mazda has rediscovered its design flair - it is distinctively suave and is armed with the right tools to capture your attention.
The Camry needs no further introduction. Toyota's benchmark setter has always been prepositioned towards sensibility - more pleasing to the eye than striking to the senses. The latest gen sheds its contoured overalls for a sharper, more dimensional look. To us, it is a love-or-hate affair.
The Mazda6 triumphs in terms of visual appeal
The Kizashi, on the other hand, marks Suzuki's debut in the big boys' game. While being the most 'dated' among the trio (it first landed in 2010), the current model gets a slightly spruced-up look with the K-Sport package.
The same, however, could not have been said about the Camry and Mazda6. Both are results of continual evolution, with ancestry roots dating back to the 'tin can' heydays. And as with experience, excellence is expected.
Exterior
Mazda took a leaf out of its recent 'KODO' cookbook and made the Mazda6. It is fair to say that Mazda has rediscovered its design flair - it is distinctively suave and is armed with the right tools to capture your attention.
The Camry needs no further introduction. Toyota's benchmark setter has always been prepositioned towards sensibility - more pleasing to the eye than striking to the senses. The latest gen sheds its contoured overalls for a sharper, more dimensional look. To us, it is a love-or-hate affair.
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The Kizashi may be a 'first child', but has an endearing display of unconventional styling. Being the 'dwarf' among the trio has its pros and cons. While the cabin size has shrunk, the shorter and wider stance gives it a more nimble and agile feel.
At its rear are motorbike-inspired exhaust tips (Suzuki makes great bikes too) - some of the most unique we have seen thus far. The K-Sport variant also comes with a subtle looking body kit - underlining the sporting intent without looking overtly 'beng-ish'.
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Interior
The size advantage of the Camry gives it the first mention here. It is no surprise that the greater dimension is reflected on its interior. By far the most spacious of the trio, the rear quarters will satisfy those who prefer to leave the driving to others. The Camry, by large, is still the stronghold when it comes to travelling in comfort.
Camry indulges its rear occupants with the best of space buffeting
While at it, the Camry leaves no room for surprises. Everything remains largely familiar, with some trims looking aged despite being relatively new in the market.
In comparison, Mazda's contrasting upholstery portrays a more uplifting feel. Although not as roomy as the Camry, occupants will feel well at home, with adequate space at the rear for three to boot. Up front, the well contoured seats also provide good lateral support.
The size advantage of the Camry gives it the first mention here. It is no surprise that the greater dimension is reflected on its interior. By far the most spacious of the trio, the rear quarters will satisfy those who prefer to leave the driving to others. The Camry, by large, is still the stronghold when it comes to travelling in comfort.
While at it, the Camry leaves no room for surprises. Everything remains largely familiar, with some trims looking aged despite being relatively new in the market.
In comparison, Mazda's contrasting upholstery portrays a more uplifting feel. Although not as roomy as the Camry, occupants will feel well at home, with adequate space at the rear for three to boot. Up front, the well contoured seats also provide good lateral support.
What the Kizashi loses out in space it makes up for with quality. Credit where it's due, Suzuki did a splendid job on the interior - among the trio it is the Kizashi's which feels the most premium.
Of course as with any ups, there are downs. One will find an old-timer audio control - though it is the quality Rockford Fosgate's block - with no in-built navigation or reverse camera.
And needless to say, the Kizashi is the most cramped to be in at the rear. Boot space however is not the most lacking - the Kizashi sports 461 litres of trunk space, losing out a tad to the Camry's 505 litres, but outdoing the Mazda6's dimunitive 438 litres.
Mazda6's interior (left) is generally attractive, though some areas still feel plasticky; Kizashi (centre) may be the oldest, but interior feels most premium; no surprise in the Camry (right) - plush upholstery a plus, but dulled by the dated wooden trims
Of course as with any ups, there are downs. One will find an old-timer audio control - though it is the quality Rockford Fosgate's block - with no in-built navigation or reverse camera.
And needless to say, the Kizashi is the most cramped to be in at the rear. Boot space however is not the most lacking - the Kizashi sports 461 litres of trunk space, losing out a tad to the Camry's 505 litres, but outdoing the Mazda6's dimunitive 438 litres.
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The Drive
It is no myth that while these sedans are conceived for the family man in mind, the driver's appeal plays an equally important role.
On paper, the Mazda6's has the edge in terms of power figures. With almost 190 horses on tap, the Mazda did not feel as fast as it should be, or as the 8.1 seconds century sprint timing suggests. Instead, it is over bends when the car comes more alive and nimble on its feet, with a driving character that belies a sedan of its size.
The Kizashi proves, however, that it all boils down to the principle of physics - its relatively shorter wheelbase gives it the agility that others can hardly match up to. It is also the most engaging to pilot, with a concise steering feel that gives a better feedback when compared to the rest.
From point to point the Kizashi feels the most eager. The downside is that the CVT transmission can feel exhaustive during spirited drives - a cause for raising eyebrows among the enthusiasts. On a good note it does deliver its goods in an efficient manner that is no less smooth than the rest.
Mazda's (left) 2.5-litre lump dispatches 187bhp and 250Nm of torque; Suzuki's (centre) 2.4-litre produces 178bhp and 230Nm of torque; Toyota's economical 2.0-litre churns out 148bhp and 190Nm of torque
It is no myth that while these sedans are conceived for the family man in mind, the driver's appeal plays an equally important role.
On paper, the Mazda6's has the edge in terms of power figures. With almost 190 horses on tap, the Mazda did not feel as fast as it should be, or as the 8.1 seconds century sprint timing suggests. Instead, it is over bends when the car comes more alive and nimble on its feet, with a driving character that belies a sedan of its size.
The Kizashi proves, however, that it all boils down to the principle of physics - its relatively shorter wheelbase gives it the agility that others can hardly match up to. It is also the most engaging to pilot, with a concise steering feel that gives a better feedback when compared to the rest.
From point to point the Kizashi feels the most eager. The downside is that the CVT transmission can feel exhaustive during spirited drives - a cause for raising eyebrows among the enthusiasts. On a good note it does deliver its goods in an efficient manner that is no less smooth than the rest.
Weighing down at 1,445kg, the Camry is one of the lightweights in the trio (Mazda6 comes close at 1,444kg while Kizashi is the heaviest at 1,485kg). And despite being the least powerful of the trio, the Camry does not at all feel lethargic. Coupled with the fact that the gearbox only has four ratios to work with, the Camry is impressive in delivering a creamy smooth experience.
Living up to its efficiency credentials, the Camry will do 11km/L in normal driving, triumphing Mazda6's 8.6km/L and Kizashi's 8.5km/L.
The Kizashi's dynamic experience is only dulled by the CVT gearbox
Conclusion
There is little doubt that the Kizashi's driver will emerge with the widest grin. But if it is the passenger you are looking to please, the Camry will charm with the peerless cabin comfort, and not to mention doing a favour for your wallet at the pumps.
On the other hand, if you're looking for something that's smacked in the middle, the Mazda6 won't disappoint. Blessed with good looks and an equally attractive interior to match, the Mazda6 is more than capable of offering a balance of both worlds.
Living up to its efficiency credentials, the Camry will do 11km/L in normal driving, triumphing Mazda6's 8.6km/L and Kizashi's 8.5km/L.
Conclusion
There is little doubt that the Kizashi's driver will emerge with the widest grin. But if it is the passenger you are looking to please, the Camry will charm with the peerless cabin comfort, and not to mention doing a favour for your wallet at the pumps.
On the other hand, if you're looking for something that's smacked in the middle, the Mazda6 won't disappoint. Blessed with good looks and an equally attractive interior to match, the Mazda6 is more than capable of offering a balance of both worlds.
By now you might have read reviews of Mazda's latest flagship, or even seen it in the flesh. The Mazda6 is no stranger to the family man's party, or any less attention seeking. In fact, few other carmakers in its segment can lay claim to building desirable, yet practical performance saloons - such as the 268bhp tarmac-scorching Mazda6 MPS.
The Kizashi, on the other hand, marks Suzuki's debut in the big boys' game. While being the most 'dated' among the trio (it first landed in 2010), the current model gets a slightly spruced-up look with the K-Sport package.
The same, however, could not have been said about the Camry and Mazda6. Both are results of continual evolution, with ancestry roots dating back to the 'tin can' heydays. And as with experience, excellence is expected.
Exterior
Mazda took a leaf out of its recent 'KODO' cookbook and made the Mazda6. It is fair to say that Mazda has rediscovered its design flair - it is distinctively suave and is armed with the right tools to capture your attention.
The Camry needs no further introduction. Toyota's benchmark setter has always been prepositioned towards sensibility - more pleasing to the eye than striking to the senses. The latest gen sheds its contoured overalls for a sharper, more dimensional look. To us, it is a love-or-hate affair.
The Kizashi, on the other hand, marks Suzuki's debut in the big boys' game. While being the most 'dated' among the trio (it first landed in 2010), the current model gets a slightly spruced-up look with the K-Sport package.
The same, however, could not have been said about the Camry and Mazda6. Both are results of continual evolution, with ancestry roots dating back to the 'tin can' heydays. And as with experience, excellence is expected.
Exterior
Mazda took a leaf out of its recent 'KODO' cookbook and made the Mazda6. It is fair to say that Mazda has rediscovered its design flair - it is distinctively suave and is armed with the right tools to capture your attention.
The Camry needs no further introduction. Toyota's benchmark setter has always been prepositioned towards sensibility - more pleasing to the eye than striking to the senses. The latest gen sheds its contoured overalls for a sharper, more dimensional look. To us, it is a love-or-hate affair.
The Kizashi may be a 'first child', but has an endearing display of unconventional styling. Being the 'dwarf' among the trio has its pros and cons. While the cabin size has shrunk, the shorter and wider stance gives it a more nimble and agile feel.
At its rear are motorbike-inspired exhaust tips (Suzuki makes great bikes too) - some of the most unique we have seen thus far. The K-Sport variant also comes with a subtle looking body kit - underlining the sporting intent without looking overtly 'beng-ish'.
At its rear are motorbike-inspired exhaust tips (Suzuki makes great bikes too) - some of the most unique we have seen thus far. The K-Sport variant also comes with a subtle looking body kit - underlining the sporting intent without looking overtly 'beng-ish'.
Interior
The size advantage of the Camry gives it the first mention here. It is no surprise that the greater dimension is reflected on its interior. By far the most spacious of the trio, the rear quarters will satisfy those who prefer to leave the driving to others. The Camry, by large, is still the stronghold when it comes to travelling in comfort.
While at it, the Camry leaves no room for surprises. Everything remains largely familiar, with some trims looking aged despite being relatively new in the market.
In comparison, Mazda's contrasting upholstery portrays a more uplifting feel. Although not as roomy as the Camry, occupants will feel well at home, with adequate space at the rear for three to boot. Up front, the well contoured seats also provide good lateral support.
The size advantage of the Camry gives it the first mention here. It is no surprise that the greater dimension is reflected on its interior. By far the most spacious of the trio, the rear quarters will satisfy those who prefer to leave the driving to others. The Camry, by large, is still the stronghold when it comes to travelling in comfort.
While at it, the Camry leaves no room for surprises. Everything remains largely familiar, with some trims looking aged despite being relatively new in the market.
In comparison, Mazda's contrasting upholstery portrays a more uplifting feel. Although not as roomy as the Camry, occupants will feel well at home, with adequate space at the rear for three to boot. Up front, the well contoured seats also provide good lateral support.
What the Kizashi loses out in space it makes up for with quality. Credit where it's due, Suzuki did a splendid job on the interior - among the trio it is the Kizashi's which feels the most premium.
Of course as with any ups, there are downs. One will find an old-timer audio control - though it is the quality Rockford Fosgate's block - with no in-built navigation or reverse camera.
And needless to say, the Kizashi is the most cramped to be in at the rear. Boot space however is not the most lacking - the Kizashi sports 461 litres of trunk space, losing out a tad to the Camry's 505 litres, but outdoing the Mazda6's dimunitive 438 litres.
Of course as with any ups, there are downs. One will find an old-timer audio control - though it is the quality Rockford Fosgate's block - with no in-built navigation or reverse camera.
And needless to say, the Kizashi is the most cramped to be in at the rear. Boot space however is not the most lacking - the Kizashi sports 461 litres of trunk space, losing out a tad to the Camry's 505 litres, but outdoing the Mazda6's dimunitive 438 litres.
The Drive
It is no myth that while these sedans are conceived for the family man in mind, the driver's appeal plays an equally important role.
On paper, the Mazda6's has the edge in terms of power figures. With almost 190 horses on tap, the Mazda did not feel as fast as it should be, or as the 8.1 seconds century sprint timing suggests. Instead, it is over bends when the car comes more alive and nimble on its feet, with a driving character that belies a sedan of its size.
The Kizashi proves, however, that it all boils down to the principle of physics - its relatively shorter wheelbase gives it the agility that others can hardly match up to. It is also the most engaging to pilot, with a concise steering feel that gives a better feedback when compared to the rest.
From point to point the Kizashi feels the most eager. The downside is that the CVT transmission can feel exhaustive during spirited drives - a cause for raising eyebrows among the enthusiasts. On a good note it does deliver its goods in an efficient manner that is no less smooth than the rest.
It is no myth that while these sedans are conceived for the family man in mind, the driver's appeal plays an equally important role.
On paper, the Mazda6's has the edge in terms of power figures. With almost 190 horses on tap, the Mazda did not feel as fast as it should be, or as the 8.1 seconds century sprint timing suggests. Instead, it is over bends when the car comes more alive and nimble on its feet, with a driving character that belies a sedan of its size.
The Kizashi proves, however, that it all boils down to the principle of physics - its relatively shorter wheelbase gives it the agility that others can hardly match up to. It is also the most engaging to pilot, with a concise steering feel that gives a better feedback when compared to the rest.
From point to point the Kizashi feels the most eager. The downside is that the CVT transmission can feel exhaustive during spirited drives - a cause for raising eyebrows among the enthusiasts. On a good note it does deliver its goods in an efficient manner that is no less smooth than the rest.
Weighing down at 1,445kg, the Camry is one of the lightweights in the trio (Mazda6 comes close at 1,444kg while Kizashi is the heaviest at 1,485kg). And despite being the least powerful of the trio, the Camry does not at all feel lethargic. Coupled with the fact that the gearbox only has four ratios to work with, the Camry is impressive in delivering a creamy smooth experience.
Living up to its efficiency credentials, the Camry will do 11km/L in normal driving, triumphing Mazda6's 8.6km/L and Kizashi's 8.5km/L.
Conclusion
There is little doubt that the Kizashi's driver will emerge with the widest grin. But if it is the passenger you are looking to please, the Camry will charm with the peerless cabin comfort, and not to mention doing a favour for your wallet at the pumps.
On the other hand, if you're looking for something that's smacked in the middle, the Mazda6 won't disappoint. Blessed with good looks and an equally attractive interior to match, the Mazda6 is more than capable of offering a balance of both worlds.
Living up to its efficiency credentials, the Camry will do 11km/L in normal driving, triumphing Mazda6's 8.6km/L and Kizashi's 8.5km/L.
Conclusion
There is little doubt that the Kizashi's driver will emerge with the widest grin. But if it is the passenger you are looking to please, the Camry will charm with the peerless cabin comfort, and not to mention doing a favour for your wallet at the pumps.
On the other hand, if you're looking for something that's smacked in the middle, the Mazda6 won't disappoint. Blessed with good looks and an equally attractive interior to match, the Mazda6 is more than capable of offering a balance of both worlds.
Photos by Low Fai Ming
Car Information
Suzuki Kizashi 2.4 K-Sport (A)
CAT B|Petrol|11.5km/L
Horsepower
131kW (176 bhp)
Torque
230 Nm
Acceleration
8.8sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used Suzuki KizashiToyota Camry 2.0 (A)
CAT B|Petrol|12.1km/L
Horsepower
109kW (146 bhp)
Torque
190 Nm
Acceleration
12.5sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used Toyota CamryMazda 6 2.5 R Luxury (A)
CAT B|Petrol|15.2km/L
Horsepower
138kW (185 bhp)
Torque
250 Nm
Acceleration
8.1sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used Mazda 6
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