Flash Drive

2017 Mazda6

December 20, 2017 - Featured, Flash Drive - Comments: 
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Model Tested: 2017 Mazda6 I Grand Touring

The 2017 Mazda6 Grand Touring is one of the more handsome mid-size sedans on the market.

Engine: 2.5-liter I-4, 184 horsepower 185 lb-ft torque

Transmission: 6-speed automatic, front-wheel-drive

EPA Rating: 27-mpg city/35-mpg highway/30-mpg combined

Base Price: $30,695

As Tested: $34,695

Performance:

Integrated Skyactiv technology is more than a sales slogan—it really works

Smooth highway ride

Excellent fuel economy—our best was 37.3-mpg highway

Sport mode, but not much change in already excellent performance

The Mazda6 is available in three trim levels and it can be ordered with a 6-speed manual transmission.

Great heads up Active Driving Display

Smart braking support

Blind spot monitor

Lane departure warning

Traction control

Hill launch assist

Rear cross traffic alert

Available excellent 6-speed manual transmission (Sport and Touring models)

Comfort:

Stretch-out legroom both front seats

Ample headroom

Power lumbar adjustment, but not super firm

The Mazda6 is very much a driver’s car is well-placed controls and ample leg and head room.

Three temperature heated front and rear seats

Heated steering wheel

Wide adjustment range on tilt/telescopic column

Good rear seat legroom if front seats are up slightly

Ample shoe room under front seats

Tall center floor hump

Utility:

Large trunk with a flat floor

Split, folding rear seats have slight slope

Rain-sensing wipers

Medium size sunroof

Small, but deep console bin

Rear seat room is good as long as the front seats are up slightly.

Large glovebox, but no lock

Long, shallow front door bins

Center slide-out feature on visors

Nice size console dial for audio, navigation, etc.

Rear doors have bottle notches, but no storage space

Good auxiliary controls on steering wheel

WOW Factors:

Excellent blend of economy and performance

Traffic sign recognition

Radar cruise control

The Grand Touring Premium Package includes heated rear seats with controls in the center armrest.

High beam control

Handsome styling 

Whines:

No lumbar adjustment for front passenger

Gas cap and trunk releases hard to reach under dashboard

Bottom Line:

The 2017 Mazda6 I Grand Touring is a wonderfully balanced sedan that excels in styling, comfort, performance, safety, economy, and overall value. The Grand Touring model is loaded with the latest technology features including safety and luxury items not often found at this price point.