2013 Mazda Mazda6

The 2013 Mazda6 comes in two different flavors, with four-cylinder 'i' versions and V-6 's' versions. The Mazda6 'i' (including base SV, Sport, and Touring) models are just perky enough for daily driving yet reasonably fuel-efficient; and unlike some models they're offered with a choice of a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic. Take a short test drive in the V-6 though, and you might be smitten; the Mazda6 has an extremely capable chassis and athletic handling, and the 272-hp V-6 makes the most of it, with plenty of accessible low-rpm torque, making the Mazda6 feel like a muscle-sedan. This version is definitely a fair bit thirstier, but a hoot to drive. And no matter which model you get, you get nice, capable brakes with a firm pedal feel as well as excellent (precise and well-weighted) steering.

Despite the spirited driving feel and rakish exterior, the interior of the 2013 Mazda Mazda6 is an unexpected strength. Whether speaking of seating comfort, ride quality, or cargo space, the Mazda6 is one of the better offerings in this class. Front seats are a little better-bolstered than what you'll find in other affordable sedans, while the backseat is good enough for adults and, at 16.6 cubic feet, the trunk is one of the largest among mid-sizers. The rear seatbacks fold forward to an almost flat position, although the release is a little clunky. Otherwise, refinement is better than you might expect if you've spent time in the smaller Mazda3; there's not much road and wind noise are well sealed out.

The 2013 Mazda6 is available in five trims, ranging from the base i Sport with a four-cylinder engine and six-speed manual to the s Grand Touring with a V6 and six-speed automatic. The Mazda6 was last redesigned for the 2009 model year and carries over into 2013 with no significant changes, so this overview uses applicable research and reviews from 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012, as well as 2013. A completely redesigned 2014 Mazda6 is scheduled to go on sale early in 2013.

Engine
Engine type SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder with VVT
Horsepower (SAE net) 184 hp @ 5700 rpm
Torque (SAE net, lb-ft) 185 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm
Displacement (cc) 2488
Bore x stroke (mm) 89.0 x 100.0
Compression ratio 13.0 : 1
Fuel system Direct injection
Recommended fuel Regular unleaded gasoline
Valvetrain Chain driven dual overhead cams, 4 valves per cylinder with variable intake valve timing (VVT)
Ignition system Direct coil-on-plug electronic ignition with platinum-tipped spark plugs
Engine block Aluminum alloy
Cylinder head Aluminum alloy
Emission control type (Fed/Cal) Tier2 Bin5 /ULEV
EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy
Manual transmission (city/HWY)† 25 / 37
Automatic transmission (city/HWY)† 26 / 38
Automatic transmission with Technology Package (city/hwy)‡ 26 / 40
Drivetrain
Type Front-wheel drive (FWD)
Manual transmission SKYACTIV-MT 6-speed
Automatic transmission SKYACTIV-Drive 6-speed Sport automatic transmission with manual shift mode
Chassis
Brakes 4-wheel disc
- Front 11.7 in.
- Rear 10.9 in.
- ABS 4-wheel, 4-channel with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist
Steering type Rack-and-pinion
Power assist Electric, speed-sensing power assist steering
Overall steering ratio 15.5:1
Steering wheel turns lock-to-lock 2.81
Turning circle, curb-to-curb (ft) 36.7
Suspension 4-wheel independent
- Front MacPherson strut with stabilizer bar
- Rear Multilink with stabilizer bar