The second generation of the Mazda6 retired just five years into its life and in its place came the third generation model last year - promising more economy, driving flair, refinement, space and technology. Most of these claims, as we found out when we tested the Mazda6 Sedan previously, weren't misconceptions.
Just like before, the Mazda6 is also offered in another body style - a wagon - though the latter, which we have with us today, took a little longer to arrive here in Singapore.
But being the only Japanese marque to feature a wagon in its lineup, there's definitely lots to say about the new Mazda6 Wagon.
Up close and Personal
Measuring 4,800mm x 1,840mm x 1,480mm (L x W x H), the Mazda6 Wagon is 65mm shorter but 30mm taller than its equivalent sedan brethren.
In essence, the wagon is pretty much the same as the sedan upon, which it's based in terms of its overall design and size. Where the models differ is behind the C-pillar, where the sedan's boot makes way for a curvier rear end on the wagon.
The interior of the Mazda6 Wagon is solidly made but is certainly not Mazda's most alluring internal effort, especially when swathed in monochromatic black and cut across by glossy burgundy trim. Nonetheless, the cabin scores highly for functionality, thanks to the logic and ease of the switches and controls.
While the Mazda6 Sedan's 80mm longer wheelbase elevates it almost into the large-car territory in terms of sprawling leg room, the Mazda6 Wagon is noticeably tighter in this respect but still has enough space to accommodate three full-sized Asian adults without much fuss.
The Drive
Under the hood, the Mazda6 Wagon shares the same 2.5-litre SkyActiv-G engine employed by its sedan brethren. Partnered with a slick six-speed automatic transmission, the engine is very smooth and pulls keenly from low revs, continuing to offer fine response even at the higher end of the rev range.
While the 8.2 seconds century sprint time may not set any class standards, the wagon is still 0.6 seconds faster than the sedan despite weighing 26kg more.
And regardless of its bigger size, the Mazda6 Wagon doesn't feel big or ungainly to drive. There's a great driving position with good all-round visibility, making the car feel much smaller and lighter than it actually is.
To add on to the ease of driving the Mazda6 Wagon, there are also driver assistance systems. A lane departure warning system ensures drivers keep to the lane while a rear vehicle monitoring system detects and alerts the driver of any vehicle or motorcycle that may happen to be in the blind spot.
Other assistance systems help in fuel economy, such as the i-ELOOP regenerative braking system and the i-STOP idling stop system, allowing us to achieve some 10km/L even though we drove the car really hard.
Under the hood, the Mazda6 Wagon shares the same 2.5-litre SkyActiv-G engine employed by its sedan brethren. Partnered with a slick six-speed automatic transmission, the engine is very smooth and pulls keenly from low revs, continuing to offer fine response even at the higher end of the rev range.
While the 8.2 seconds century sprint time may not set any class standards, the wagon is still 0.6 seconds faster than the sedan despite weighing 26kg more.
And regardless of its bigger size, the Mazda6 Wagon doesn't feel big or ungainly to drive. There's a great driving position with good all-round visibility, making the car feel much smaller and lighter than it actually is.
To add on to the ease of driving the Mazda6 Wagon, there are also driver assistance systems. A lane departure warning system ensures drivers keep to the lane while a rear vehicle monitoring system detects and alerts the driver of any vehicle or motorcycle that may happen to be in the blind spot.
Other assistance systems help in fuel economy, such as the i-ELOOP regenerative braking system and the i-STOP idling stop system, allowing us to achieve some 10km/L even though we drove the car really hard.
Compared with its sedan counterpart, the wagon's shorter wheelbase, slightly more agile feel and more immediate steering response mean it lives up to its claim of being the more dynamic of the pair on the road.
Although wind and road noise levels could have been reduced, the suspension that is tuned more for comfort than sport helps ensure a pleasant and seamless ride for everyone on board.
Conclusion
The Mazda6 Wagon is not a rocket on the road, and it definitely makes up for that with its generous space. Plus, this Mazda6 is absolutely brimming with charm and appeal, especially when it's similarly priced with its sedan brethren at $157,988 (as of 19th September 2014).
With more cargo space and better dynamics, we don't see why it should not be on your car shopping list.
