Mazda 6 2.0 R (A) Review
01 Jun 2010|42,625 views
You know, I have Mazda to thank for getting that 'zoom zoom' song stuck in my head. It was all I ever heard when Mazda Singapore launched a very aggressive marketing campaign for the first Mazda 6. Who could blame them? It is afterall a flagship model for the company. The constant pummeling of the 'zoom zoom' song into my psyche has worked. Now whenever I see a Mazda, the whole chorus starts playing all on its own in my head.
The aggressive marketing campaign though seemed unnecessary to me. Why? Unlike most of the competition, Mazda's first generation 6 got most of the looks right. When compared to its competitors, the 6 possessed significantly better road presence with its sporty sharp looking exterior. For a rather large car, the 6 did a great job of masking its girth with graceful flowing lines that gave it a powerful presence on the road. I say they got most of it right because everything was swell till you got to the rear. I found that the car's overall profile was overly reminiscent of a wedge. Thanks to a wide bulbous rear end. Besides that, I thought the first Mazda 6 was a handsome looking sedan.
The thing about Mazdas that I love is the interior. Unlike most of the other sedans, it always seems like Mazda makes the effort to create a functional yet comfortable interior. I've always loved the black themed interiors complimented with a subtle red glow from the instruments and centre console. It looks very much like Audi which isn't a bad association to be honest.
The aggressive marketing campaign though seemed unnecessary to me. Why? Unlike most of the competition, Mazda's first generation 6 got most of the looks right. When compared to its competitors, the 6 possessed significantly better road presence with its sporty sharp looking exterior. For a rather large car, the 6 did a great job of masking its girth with graceful flowing lines that gave it a powerful presence on the road. I say they got most of it right because everything was swell till you got to the rear. I found that the car's overall profile was overly reminiscent of a wedge. Thanks to a wide bulbous rear end. Besides that, I thought the first Mazda 6 was a handsome looking sedan.
The thing about Mazdas that I love is the interior. Unlike most of the other sedans, it always seems like Mazda makes the effort to create a functional yet comfortable interior. I've always loved the black themed interiors complimented with a subtle red glow from the instruments and centre console. It looks very much like Audi which isn't a bad association to be honest.
 |
Exterior
I'm quite delighted to say that the second generation Mazda 6 has kept up with tradition quite well. On first impressions, the new car looks exactly how one would imagine a 21st century Japanese sedan to be. Encompassed in beautiful gentle flowing curves that is complimented with understated sportiness.
Much of the Mazda 6's elegance emanates from the soft impression created by its front fascia. A "Nagare" design that was inspired by the organic shapes found in nature. Like the lines created by water flowing between rocks. This inspiration has not only translated to a highly aerodynamic profile, it also makes the large girth of this mid-size sedan very gentle on the eyes.
I'm quite delighted to say that the second generation Mazda 6 has kept up with tradition quite well. On first impressions, the new car looks exactly how one would imagine a 21st century Japanese sedan to be. Encompassed in beautiful gentle flowing curves that is complimented with understated sportiness.
Much of the Mazda 6's elegance emanates from the soft impression created by its front fascia. A "Nagare" design that was inspired by the organic shapes found in nature. Like the lines created by water flowing between rocks. This inspiration has not only translated to a highly aerodynamic profile, it also makes the large girth of this mid-size sedan very gentle on the eyes.
 |
The front fascia is vaguely reminiscent of Mazda's RX-8 sportscar. Resemblance found namely in the front grille and smooth wing-shaped headlights. In the latest facelift model, minor nip tucks have been applied to sharpen up the looks a little. For starters, the Mazda badge has been enlarged slightly to make it more prominent. The headlamps and foglights too have been given a more distinctive impression. Taking inspiration from the emblem's five point design.
Just aft of the headlamps, gently protruding wheel arches give the new 6 a subtle strong and muscular road presence. The large curving windshield carries the smooth "Nagare" flowing lines towards the rear of the car. Creating a very low sportscar-like profile. In the rear, I'm very happy to say that Mazda's designers have smoothed out the profile somewhat and created a less prominent rump. The rear mirrors the elegance in the front fascia with its large distinctive wing-inspired tail lamps finished in crystal clear lenses. Mazda really has made the new 6 beautiful from all angles.
The 2.0-litre model I tested came with a slightly sportier front and rear bumper. This was complimented with the 17 inch alloy wheels.
Interior
Open the door into the Mazda 6, and you will notice that it somehow feels better designed than most of the contemporary Japanese family sedans. Creating an upmarket interior with a good mix of high quality plastics accompanied with bits of aluminum.
Just aft of the headlamps, gently protruding wheel arches give the new 6 a subtle strong and muscular road presence. The large curving windshield carries the smooth "Nagare" flowing lines towards the rear of the car. Creating a very low sportscar-like profile. In the rear, I'm very happy to say that Mazda's designers have smoothed out the profile somewhat and created a less prominent rump. The rear mirrors the elegance in the front fascia with its large distinctive wing-inspired tail lamps finished in crystal clear lenses. Mazda really has made the new 6 beautiful from all angles.
The 2.0-litre model I tested came with a slightly sportier front and rear bumper. This was complimented with the 17 inch alloy wheels.
Interior
Open the door into the Mazda 6, and you will notice that it somehow feels better designed than most of the contemporary Japanese family sedans. Creating an upmarket interior with a good mix of high quality plastics accompanied with bits of aluminum.
I loved the front passenger seats that provided ample lateral support. The driving position was comfortable enough for me to drive the car for the entire day and night without feeling any strain. A fully adjustable steering column makes sure that the best driving position doesn't escape you. Unlike the CX-7 I previously tested, the steering wheel here is a lot less chunky. Allowing ample space between the spokes for you to rest your hands during long drives up North. Though the cruise control did get activated accidentally now and again when making turns.
I loved the large chunky paddle shifters fitted on either side of the wheel that will ensure owners with F1 aspirations find endless entertainment shifting manually. The shifters themselves felt solid to the touch and are built with enough quality to stand up to overzealous drivers. Just behind the wheel are the indicator and wiper stalks that seem thicker than those found in other cars. Giving the impression that they'll stand up to endless actuations.
Beyond the wheel lies the clearly defined instrument panel. I especially loved looking at the dials at night when they're bathed in scarlet and indigo lights. Casting a soft glow around the driver.
First thing on the centre console is the iconic digital readout backlit in red that's present on all Mazda models. The orgy of digital information crammed onto a thin red bar can possibly overload the driver at times.
I loved the large chunky paddle shifters fitted on either side of the wheel that will ensure owners with F1 aspirations find endless entertainment shifting manually. The shifters themselves felt solid to the touch and are built with enough quality to stand up to overzealous drivers. Just behind the wheel are the indicator and wiper stalks that seem thicker than those found in other cars. Giving the impression that they'll stand up to endless actuations.
Beyond the wheel lies the clearly defined instrument panel. I especially loved looking at the dials at night when they're bathed in scarlet and indigo lights. Casting a soft glow around the driver.
First thing on the centre console is the iconic digital readout backlit in red that's present on all Mazda models. The orgy of digital information crammed onto a thin red bar can possibly overload the driver at times.
 |
The centre console further completes the quality interior feel by using a classic looking piano black insert around the audio controls. The buttons on the centre console for the audio is large and easily within reach of the driver. The essential audio controls are also replicated on the steering wheel. For a factory system, the tunes pumped through the audio system is quite impressive. Providing ample oomph for the lows and respectable mids and highs. The six disc changer and AUX-in jacks gives most owners little reason to change the head unit. The AUX-in jack along with a 12 volt plug is hidden away in the centre armrest. Proof that Mazda has given proper thought to its design are the two outlets made into the armrest's cover to allow your wires to be led through. Keeping things neat and tidy.
Below the audio system are the three dials that control the interior climate. The large dials are very easy to use and the chrome surrounds are themed to the quality interior as well.
Despite the low roofline, the rear seats in the Mazda 6 are surprisingly comfortable for long limbed passengers. Mazda claims that the rear will accommodate passengers even if they're six feet tall with enough head room to spare.. The claims are believable considering that my 5 '10 frame fit very comfortably with plenty of legroom available. The seats are also split folding for when extra cargo space is needed. That should be a rarity considering another of the Mazda 6's party piece is its 519 litre volume of space available in the boot.
Below the audio system are the three dials that control the interior climate. The large dials are very easy to use and the chrome surrounds are themed to the quality interior as well.
Despite the low roofline, the rear seats in the Mazda 6 are surprisingly comfortable for long limbed passengers. Mazda claims that the rear will accommodate passengers even if they're six feet tall with enough head room to spare.. The claims are believable considering that my 5 '10 frame fit very comfortably with plenty of legroom available. The seats are also split folding for when extra cargo space is needed. That should be a rarity considering another of the Mazda 6's party piece is its 519 litre volume of space available in the boot.
The Drive
For a big family sedan, the Mazda 6 rides relatively well on our roads. Ironing out most of the road undulations along the highways with ease. Even on smaller roads, I still found the ride pliant even though some colleagues have commented it to be a little firmer than the competition. Even though the sound insulation is claimed to be louder than some of the competition, I felt that it was not significantly so while I was cruising on the highways.
The 2.0-litre isn't particularly exhilarating in its performance though it isn't lethargic in any way. Gearshifts from the Activematic transmission were smooth and will shift largely unnoticed.
Conclusion
During an interview session with Kazuhiko Hyashi (Mazda's General Manager of Asia & Pacific Overseas Sales Division) late last year, he promised newer and more exciting models for this region's market to boost its sales. It will be very puzzling for me if Mazda's sales figures don't improve with the latest Mazda 6 sedan. The youthful design is a breath of fresh air amidst the angular lines that dominate a few of its competition. I think this will be a good time for consumers to take a step away from the run of the mill mid-size Hondas and Toyotas for a younger looking Mazda.
Zoom zoom zoom™
For a big family sedan, the Mazda 6 rides relatively well on our roads. Ironing out most of the road undulations along the highways with ease. Even on smaller roads, I still found the ride pliant even though some colleagues have commented it to be a little firmer than the competition. Even though the sound insulation is claimed to be louder than some of the competition, I felt that it was not significantly so while I was cruising on the highways.
The 2.0-litre isn't particularly exhilarating in its performance though it isn't lethargic in any way. Gearshifts from the Activematic transmission were smooth and will shift largely unnoticed.
Conclusion
During an interview session with Kazuhiko Hyashi (Mazda's General Manager of Asia & Pacific Overseas Sales Division) late last year, he promised newer and more exciting models for this region's market to boost its sales. It will be very puzzling for me if Mazda's sales figures don't improve with the latest Mazda 6 sedan. The youthful design is a breath of fresh air amidst the angular lines that dominate a few of its competition. I think this will be a good time for consumers to take a step away from the run of the mill mid-size Hondas and Toyotas for a younger looking Mazda.
Zoom zoom zoom™
You know, I have Mazda to thank for getting that 'zoom zoom' song stuck in my head. It was all I ever heard when Mazda Singapore launched a very aggressive marketing campaign for the first Mazda 6. Who could blame them? It is afterall a flagship model for the company. The constant pummeling of the 'zoom zoom' song into my psyche has worked. Now whenever I see a Mazda, the whole chorus starts playing all on its own in my head.
The aggressive marketing campaign though seemed unnecessary to me. Why? Unlike most of the competition, Mazda's first generation 6 got most of the looks right. When compared to its competitors, the 6 possessed significantly better road presence with its sporty sharp looking exterior. For a rather large car, the 6 did a great job of masking its girth with graceful flowing lines that gave it a powerful presence on the road. I say they got most of it right because everything was swell till you got to the rear. I found that the car's overall profile was overly reminiscent of a wedge. Thanks to a wide bulbous rear end. Besides that, I thought the first Mazda 6 was a handsome looking sedan.
The thing about Mazdas that I love is the interior. Unlike most of the other sedans, it always seems like Mazda makes the effort to create a functional yet comfortable interior. I've always loved the black themed interiors complimented with a subtle red glow from the instruments and centre console. It looks very much like Audi which isn't a bad association to be honest.
The aggressive marketing campaign though seemed unnecessary to me. Why? Unlike most of the competition, Mazda's first generation 6 got most of the looks right. When compared to its competitors, the 6 possessed significantly better road presence with its sporty sharp looking exterior. For a rather large car, the 6 did a great job of masking its girth with graceful flowing lines that gave it a powerful presence on the road. I say they got most of it right because everything was swell till you got to the rear. I found that the car's overall profile was overly reminiscent of a wedge. Thanks to a wide bulbous rear end. Besides that, I thought the first Mazda 6 was a handsome looking sedan.
The thing about Mazdas that I love is the interior. Unlike most of the other sedans, it always seems like Mazda makes the effort to create a functional yet comfortable interior. I've always loved the black themed interiors complimented with a subtle red glow from the instruments and centre console. It looks very much like Audi which isn't a bad association to be honest.
|
Exterior
I'm quite delighted to say that the second generation Mazda 6 has kept up with tradition quite well. On first impressions, the new car looks exactly how one would imagine a 21st century Japanese sedan to be. Encompassed in beautiful gentle flowing curves that is complimented with understated sportiness.
Much of the Mazda 6's elegance emanates from the soft impression created by its front fascia. A "Nagare" design that was inspired by the organic shapes found in nature. Like the lines created by water flowing between rocks. This inspiration has not only translated to a highly aerodynamic profile, it also makes the large girth of this mid-size sedan very gentle on the eyes.
I'm quite delighted to say that the second generation Mazda 6 has kept up with tradition quite well. On first impressions, the new car looks exactly how one would imagine a 21st century Japanese sedan to be. Encompassed in beautiful gentle flowing curves that is complimented with understated sportiness.
Much of the Mazda 6's elegance emanates from the soft impression created by its front fascia. A "Nagare" design that was inspired by the organic shapes found in nature. Like the lines created by water flowing between rocks. This inspiration has not only translated to a highly aerodynamic profile, it also makes the large girth of this mid-size sedan very gentle on the eyes.
|
The front fascia is vaguely reminiscent of Mazda's RX-8 sportscar. Resemblance found namely in the front grille and smooth wing-shaped headlights. In the latest facelift model, minor nip tucks have been applied to sharpen up the looks a little. For starters, the Mazda badge has been enlarged slightly to make it more prominent. The headlamps and foglights too have been given a more distinctive impression. Taking inspiration from the emblem's five point design.
Just aft of the headlamps, gently protruding wheel arches give the new 6 a subtle strong and muscular road presence. The large curving windshield carries the smooth "Nagare" flowing lines towards the rear of the car. Creating a very low sportscar-like profile. In the rear, I'm very happy to say that Mazda's designers have smoothed out the profile somewhat and created a less prominent rump. The rear mirrors the elegance in the front fascia with its large distinctive wing-inspired tail lamps finished in crystal clear lenses. Mazda really has made the new 6 beautiful from all angles.
The 2.0-litre model I tested came with a slightly sportier front and rear bumper. This was complimented with the 17 inch alloy wheels.
Interior
Open the door into the Mazda 6, and you will notice that it somehow feels better designed than most of the contemporary Japanese family sedans. Creating an upmarket interior with a good mix of high quality plastics accompanied with bits of aluminum.
Just aft of the headlamps, gently protruding wheel arches give the new 6 a subtle strong and muscular road presence. The large curving windshield carries the smooth "Nagare" flowing lines towards the rear of the car. Creating a very low sportscar-like profile. In the rear, I'm very happy to say that Mazda's designers have smoothed out the profile somewhat and created a less prominent rump. The rear mirrors the elegance in the front fascia with its large distinctive wing-inspired tail lamps finished in crystal clear lenses. Mazda really has made the new 6 beautiful from all angles.
The 2.0-litre model I tested came with a slightly sportier front and rear bumper. This was complimented with the 17 inch alloy wheels.
Interior
Open the door into the Mazda 6, and you will notice that it somehow feels better designed than most of the contemporary Japanese family sedans. Creating an upmarket interior with a good mix of high quality plastics accompanied with bits of aluminum.
I loved the front passenger seats that provided ample lateral support. The driving position was comfortable enough for me to drive the car for the entire day and night without feeling any strain. A fully adjustable steering column makes sure that the best driving position doesn't escape you. Unlike the CX-7 I previously tested, the steering wheel here is a lot less chunky. Allowing ample space between the spokes for you to rest your hands during long drives up North. Though the cruise control did get activated accidentally now and again when making turns.
I loved the large chunky paddle shifters fitted on either side of the wheel that will ensure owners with F1 aspirations find endless entertainment shifting manually. The shifters themselves felt solid to the touch and are built with enough quality to stand up to overzealous drivers. Just behind the wheel are the indicator and wiper stalks that seem thicker than those found in other cars. Giving the impression that they'll stand up to endless actuations.
Beyond the wheel lies the clearly defined instrument panel. I especially loved looking at the dials at night when they're bathed in scarlet and indigo lights. Casting a soft glow around the driver.
First thing on the centre console is the iconic digital readout backlit in red that's present on all Mazda models. The orgy of digital information crammed onto a thin red bar can possibly overload the driver at times.
I loved the large chunky paddle shifters fitted on either side of the wheel that will ensure owners with F1 aspirations find endless entertainment shifting manually. The shifters themselves felt solid to the touch and are built with enough quality to stand up to overzealous drivers. Just behind the wheel are the indicator and wiper stalks that seem thicker than those found in other cars. Giving the impression that they'll stand up to endless actuations.
Beyond the wheel lies the clearly defined instrument panel. I especially loved looking at the dials at night when they're bathed in scarlet and indigo lights. Casting a soft glow around the driver.
First thing on the centre console is the iconic digital readout backlit in red that's present on all Mazda models. The orgy of digital information crammed onto a thin red bar can possibly overload the driver at times.
|
The centre console further completes the quality interior feel by using a classic looking piano black insert around the audio controls. The buttons on the centre console for the audio is large and easily within reach of the driver. The essential audio controls are also replicated on the steering wheel. For a factory system, the tunes pumped through the audio system is quite impressive. Providing ample oomph for the lows and respectable mids and highs. The six disc changer and AUX-in jacks gives most owners little reason to change the head unit. The AUX-in jack along with a 12 volt plug is hidden away in the centre armrest. Proof that Mazda has given proper thought to its design are the two outlets made into the armrest's cover to allow your wires to be led through. Keeping things neat and tidy.
Below the audio system are the three dials that control the interior climate. The large dials are very easy to use and the chrome surrounds are themed to the quality interior as well.
Despite the low roofline, the rear seats in the Mazda 6 are surprisingly comfortable for long limbed passengers. Mazda claims that the rear will accommodate passengers even if they're six feet tall with enough head room to spare.. The claims are believable considering that my 5 '10 frame fit very comfortably with plenty of legroom available. The seats are also split folding for when extra cargo space is needed. That should be a rarity considering another of the Mazda 6's party piece is its 519 litre volume of space available in the boot.
Below the audio system are the three dials that control the interior climate. The large dials are very easy to use and the chrome surrounds are themed to the quality interior as well.
Despite the low roofline, the rear seats in the Mazda 6 are surprisingly comfortable for long limbed passengers. Mazda claims that the rear will accommodate passengers even if they're six feet tall with enough head room to spare.. The claims are believable considering that my 5 '10 frame fit very comfortably with plenty of legroom available. The seats are also split folding for when extra cargo space is needed. That should be a rarity considering another of the Mazda 6's party piece is its 519 litre volume of space available in the boot.
The Drive
For a big family sedan, the Mazda 6 rides relatively well on our roads. Ironing out most of the road undulations along the highways with ease. Even on smaller roads, I still found the ride pliant even though some colleagues have commented it to be a little firmer than the competition. Even though the sound insulation is claimed to be louder than some of the competition, I felt that it was not significantly so while I was cruising on the highways.
The 2.0-litre isn't particularly exhilarating in its performance though it isn't lethargic in any way. Gearshifts from the Activematic transmission were smooth and will shift largely unnoticed.
Conclusion
During an interview session with Kazuhiko Hyashi (Mazda's General Manager of Asia & Pacific Overseas Sales Division) late last year, he promised newer and more exciting models for this region's market to boost its sales. It will be very puzzling for me if Mazda's sales figures don't improve with the latest Mazda 6 sedan. The youthful design is a breath of fresh air amidst the angular lines that dominate a few of its competition. I think this will be a good time for consumers to take a step away from the run of the mill mid-size Hondas and Toyotas for a younger looking Mazda.
Zoom zoom zoom™
For a big family sedan, the Mazda 6 rides relatively well on our roads. Ironing out most of the road undulations along the highways with ease. Even on smaller roads, I still found the ride pliant even though some colleagues have commented it to be a little firmer than the competition. Even though the sound insulation is claimed to be louder than some of the competition, I felt that it was not significantly so while I was cruising on the highways.
The 2.0-litre isn't particularly exhilarating in its performance though it isn't lethargic in any way. Gearshifts from the Activematic transmission were smooth and will shift largely unnoticed.
Conclusion
During an interview session with Kazuhiko Hyashi (Mazda's General Manager of Asia & Pacific Overseas Sales Division) late last year, he promised newer and more exciting models for this region's market to boost its sales. It will be very puzzling for me if Mazda's sales figures don't improve with the latest Mazda 6 sedan. The youthful design is a breath of fresh air amidst the angular lines that dominate a few of its competition. I think this will be a good time for consumers to take a step away from the run of the mill mid-size Hondas and Toyotas for a younger looking Mazda.
Zoom zoom zoom™
Photos by Benjamin G, Kline
Car Information
Mazda 6 2.0 R (A)
CAT B|Petrol|11.4km/L
Horsepower
109kW (146 bhp)
Torque
184 Nm
Acceleration
-
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used Mazda 6
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