2017 Mazda 6 Pros vs Cons

The 2017 Mazda Mazda6 has some great qualities that set it apart from today’s other midsize sedans. Drivers rave about the Mazda6’s sporty handling and strong fuel economy. Its well-designed interior will also appeal to a lot of people. Furthermore, an impressive number of high-tech safety features are now available.

What’s New for 2017?

To make the Mazda6 an even better value, Mazda equipped it with a few additional standard features. All models benefit from a new G-Vectoring Control system, which enhances handling.

Reasons You May Want to Consider a 2017 Mazda Mazda6 - The Pros

1. Lively Performance

Although the Mazda6 only comes with a four-cylinder engine, it still delivers an engaging performance. The sedan’s throttle response is immediate. Mazda’s exceptional transmissions enable you to take full advantage of the engine’s 184-horsepower output. When launched from a standstill, the Mazda6 takes only 7.4 seconds to reach 60 mph. Most drivers won’t feel the need for a stronger engine.

2. Impressive Fuel Economy

Mazda’s SkyActiv technology enables the car to return good gas mileage. Eco-friendly features, such as active grille shutters, help reduce wind drag at highway speeds. When equipped with the automatic transmission, you can expect to get 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. However, an optional i-ELOOP regenerative braking system further enhances fuel efficiency.

3. Very Good Handling

The 2017 Mazda Mazda6 is arguably the best-handling midsize sedan in its class. It is a more efficient alternative to a true sports sedan. A new G-Vectoring Control system gives the Mazda6 an additional fun factor. When traveling on a twisty road, you will immediately notice the Mazda6’s class-leading agility. You will also like the sedan’s communicative steering system.

4. Proven Reliability

If reliability is a top concern, the new Mazda6 will prove to be an excellent choice. Over the years, owners have rarely reported any major mechanical or electrical problems. It is a solid family sedan that you can depend upon on an everyday basis. A 60,000-mile powertrain warranty gives you an extra sense of security.

5. Elegant Styling

There are plenty of car shoppers who will like the Mazda6’s elegant styling. Its long hood and sleek body make it look especially graceful. When equipped with the 19-inch alloy wheels, the Mazda6 has a road-hugging stance. Full LED lighting and a stylish rear spoiler come standard on the top-of-the-line Grand Touring model. Chrome exhaust tips enhance the car’s sporty character.

6. Very Roomy

Up to five people can comfortably fit inside the 2017 Mazda Mazda6. All of your friends and family will have ample head- and legroom. The Mazda6 is an especially good choice for the tall drivers who find a small sedan to be too cramped. You will also like the car’s wide trunk opening, which enables you to easily load shopping bags.

7. Sporty Interior Design

The sedan’s sporty theme continues on the inside. It looks noticeably more exciting than the typical family sedan. Performance gauges and a race-inspired steering wheel make the Mazda6 even more entertaining to drive. Leather sport seats are optional. Meanwhile, an available black headliner gives the cabin a custom appearance.

8. Driving Technologies

While on the road, you can benefit from Mazda’s innovative driving aids. If you decide to take a road trip, the Traffic Sign Recognition system will come in handy. Not only can this cutting-edge technology recognize speed limits, but it can also read other important traffic sings. You can also take advantage of the sedan’s optional head-up display, which eliminates the need for drivers to look down.

9. Loaded Base Model

Although options such as a Bose sound system are tempting, the base Sport model will keep most drivers fulfilled. One of the sedan’s most exciting standard features is the Mazda Connect infotainment system. It is touted as one of the best interfaces on the market. Some of the other standard goodies include HD radio, Bluetooth, and a backup camera.

10. Very Safe Family Vehicle

The IIHS chose the 2017 Mazda Mazda6 as a Top Safety Pick+. Aside from its exceptional crash protection, the sedan also offers an impressive list of safety technologies. Its available blind-spot monitor does a great job of detecting oncoming vehicles. Some of the other driving aids include automatic braking technology and lane-keep assist.

Reasons you may not want to buy a 2017 Mazda Mazda6 - The Cons

1. No Optional Engine

Unlike midsize sedans such as the Honda Accord, the Mazda6 only offers a single engine choice. While its four-cylinder engine is a stronger performer, a V-6 engine would take the Mazda6’s appeal to the next level.

2. All-Wheel Drive Unavailable

If you happen to live in a snow-prone region, the Mazda6 may not be the best choice. It only comes equipped with front-wheel drive. Featuring a standard AWD system, the new Subaru Legacy is a far better choice for wintry weather.

3. Rides a Just Bit Stiffer Than Normal

In exchange for the Mazda6’s sporty driving dynamics, you must sacrifice just a bit of road quality. While the Mazda6 does ride smoothly on most types of pavement, it is not as plush as a luxury sedan.

How it stacks up to the competition:

Some of the key rivals include the Toyota Camry and the Nissan Altima. In terms of handling, the 2017 Mazda Mazda6 outshines both of these competitors. Although both the Camry and the Altima offer a powerful V-6 engine, they still don’t feel as engaging to drive as the Mazda6.

Conclusion:

If you are looking for a fun-to-drive family car that offers an abundance of technology, the Mazda6 will be a great pick. Furthermore, it provides a top-notch level of safety and passenger comfort. In contrast to some modern sedans, the Mazda6 continues to offer a manual transmission. Prices for the value-packed base model start at $21,945.