Solid Middle Class

2023 Author: Eric Donovan | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-08-25 09:36

It's not a big excitement in its segment, but in this respect completely typical of the understatement in the lower middle class. Solidity and a good price-performance ratio is already the best that can be said about the Japanese. And that's not a little.

By Silke Koppers

Only a few automobile manufacturers offer an elegant middle-grader at an affordable price. The Mazda6 is such a case. The five-door hatchback sedan with the 103 kW / 140 PS 2.0-liter diesel engine is available for as little as 25,400 euros. In this variant, Mazda gives the model the nickname Sport, which can definitely be found as a note in the vehicle.

The difference between inside outside

In the interior, however, the implementation is less successful than one would assume from the external impression. But compared to its predecessor, the design has improved a lot. The plastic desert of the cockpit has been loosened up by aluminum applications, the plastic no longer looks so dull thanks to a foamed film and also feels better. All materials are processed quite solidly.

Lush furnishings

You can't complain about the standard equipment of the Japanese either: alloy wheels, an audio system with CD player, electric windows at all seats, the air conditioning and remote-controlled central locking are always on board. In the higher equipment variants, things such as automatic air conditioning, cruise control, on-board computer, xenon lights, rain sensors, a Bose sound system or even a tire pressure monitor are added. Those who choose the highest equipment level will only find the metallic paintwork, the DVD navigation system and an electrically operated sliding glass roof in the surcharge list.

Limited space in the back seat

The basic version of ESP, eight airbags and active headrests ensure safety on board. Thus the Mazda6 offers one of the most balanced offers in the middle class. In addition, four passengers and their luggage have enough space in the front-wheel drive. With three of them it is a bit tight in the rear, but there is always enough space for short journeys. The trunk can hold cargo with a volume of up to 510 liters; that's enough for one large and two small suitcases and a travel bag. By folding down the rear seat, the volume increases to 1,702 liters.

Starting weakness with the diesel engine

The diesel unit with its 103 kW / 140 PS and a maximum torque of 330 Nm at 2,000 rpm is also sufficient for transporting heavy goods. This engine is an old acquaintance that has been redesigned. After a short start-up weakness, the diesel engine impresses with good torque and a silky run. The precise steering and the smooth-running six-speed gearbox do the rest to make the driver happy. Sporty inserts in the driving style are - as far as the performance data allow - quite possible. Even the solidly tuned chassis doesn’t spoil the bill, and the consumption of 7.7 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers falls within an acceptable range. With normal driving style, the middle class needs around 6.4 liters.

Paroli for the Ford Mondeo

With the 6-series model, Mazda has succeeded in creating a vehicle that is convincing in the sum of its properties and offers a good price-performance ratio. Although the Mazda6 does not come close to mid-range models from premium competitors such as Audi or BMW, it is also not that expensive and can definitely stand up to a VW Passat or Ford Mondeo in terms of looks and equipment. (mid)