Test Drive: Mazda6 looks good, drives great
James R. Healey driving with new Mazda 6.(Photo: Erich Schlegel for USA TODAY)Story HighlightsStyle: Eye candy by family sedan standardsHandling: Oh so rightGaffes: Small navi screen, hidden ignition, smaller trunkAUSTIN -- Mazda, a tiny company in a land of auto industry giants, knows it must offer something special to survive against the Toyotas, Hondas, Fords and Volkswagens of the world.Its MX-5 Miata (evaluated here last week) has been a signal of that: a pure, two-seat, convertible-top, rear-drive, affordable sports car that's unique in the market.But small sales of specialty models can't cover the rent, and Mazda needs bigger players in larger segments. Thus, the makeover of its midsize Mazda6 sedan.Judged by specifications, its direct rivals are the likes of Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Ford Fusion, Chevrolet Cruze, Nissan Altima.Judged by driving feel, it has no direct rivals. Not that the 2014 Mazda6, on sale since last month, is an easy champion in that fierce field of highly competent sedans. Rather, it's the most palatable overall blend of sporty, comfortable and fuel-efficient.Its styling gives it the most sex appeal, too.A very brisk run through the Texas Hill Country around here left two very positive impressions:Handling is commendable.The Mazda6 gracefully saved the day a number of times when a corner was much sharper than even the alarmist road signs warned.In those "oops" situations, just a little more steering and, bingo, a little more turning. No heavy understeer, no wrestling match with the squirming, squealing, almost-sliding of most family sedans in similar circumstances.The 6 is a dancer.Mazda's Skyactiv mojo seems on-target for good mileage.We kicked the car hard, often using full-throttle, because the 2.5-liter engine is delightfully lively when spurred, and frequently using the manual-shift mode of the six-speed automatic to hold the lower gears. Good control in those very tight corners and…
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