First impressions

[ManMachine]

I went to the local dealer to check out the new Mazda6. Only one model on display in the showroom and nothing else for test drive yet. The display model is the Soul Red Grand Touring.

Exterior: the front again looks great, the side profile smooth and athletic. The rear is OK, I think it can do without the chrome. Duel exhaust looks nice. There's a little camera for parking. Engine department looks like it can fit more stuff there. A strut tower brace would be needed.

Interior: With ivory leather seats, the contrast with the black carpet is very nice. The leather is perforated, feels pretty soft. Dash and window sill area are soft plastic. The center console where one's legs will lean against is however hard plastic. Overall design is minimalist, in a way BMW like, especially the iDrive like Commander switch.

The rear seats get air flow, however no temperature control there. Seats are 40/60 splits (the new Accord has not have split folding rear seats), however there's no center pass-through. The luggage area size seems decent and shaped to fit luggage cases well.

Overall, a nice and handsome package. Hopefully it drives well like the press says and offers a touring 6MT in a desirable color.

 

[luvmycx5]

Thanks for posting -- something different and "real" to view instead of the online articles!

 

[DKaz]

Very nice. I love the interior, seems upscale compared to the bland 2nd gen.

 

[IHeartGroceries]

Thanks for the pictures! I see that they have incorperated rear heat/air vents into the center console. Very nice!

 

[igotzzoom]

I love the looks of the 2014 6. I think I'd probably hold out for the diesel, though. My current Sonata 2.0T is nice, and has plenty of power, but hasn't proven quite as reliable as my P5 was, and gets OK, not outstanding fuel economy. The idea of 310 lb-ft and an average consistently in the 30s is enticing.

 

[DKaz]

Yuck, a couple years old an not as reliable? That's just bad, my Mazda 5 had 180,000km on it and not a single problem other than typical wear (brakes, shocks, *cough*clutch*cough*).

 

[igotzzoom]

Eh, not major things, just minor annoyances. Squeaky sunroof and headliner, audio controls spazzing out. The only issue I'd consider "major" is the push-button start malfunctioning due to a faulty brake sensor switch. I took it in under warranty to get fixed, and haven't had an issue since. Not nearly as bad as my VW GTI, though. I'd consider another Hyundai, but I wouldn't consider another VW. Otherwise, I'd probably have a TDI by now. But I'd definitely get another Mazda.

 

[ManMachine]

Mazda's recent reliability rating has been steadily increasing. Hopefully the trend continues.

 

[Park2670]

I had the same thoughts as you. A well put together car for the money.