Published: Wednesday, 18th August, 2010 5:00pm
Facelifted Mazda6 gets tech mods too
Pic by==: 97
The new Mazda6 facelift introduced in July competes in one of the most competitive segments of the Irish car market, that of the family saloon or hatch. Rivals include the superb Ford Mondeo, Renault Laguna, VW Passat, Toyota Avensis, and Honda Accord. So it needs to be good to compete with the likes of those.
The new 2010 Mazda6 is essentially an evolution of the previous model with most engines and basic chassis carried over but with numerous technical modifications which have resulted in a reduction in weight, an improvement in fuel economy and better performance. One of the biggest changes is a fully revised suspension giving a much better ride.
Mazda have seen their market share grow steadily in Ireland on the back of a fresh range of cars. The line-up now consists of the Mazda2, Mazda3, Mazda5 MPV, Mazda6, MX-5, RX-8, and the Mazda CX-7 Sports Crossover SUV.
The new 6 is available in saloon, five-door hatch and Touring (estate), with petrol and diesel powerplants including a 1.8 petrol, 2.0 petrol, and three 2.2 low emission common rail diesel engines with three different power outputs, Standard, Mid, and High.
This test is of the 2.2 litre TDi four door saloon, one sleek good-looking car. Many who commented on it said it looked distinctive and dynamic unlike many of its rather dull looking rivals. There are 10 exterior colours to choose from, new lights front and rear and larger 17- and 18-inch alloy wheels. The Executive model tested has the 18-inch alloys and the test car was finished in an attractive light metallic blue, which set off the lines of the car well.
The cabin is just about perfect. It looks great, modern and well designed while reflecting the dynamic curves and contours of the exterior.
The instrument cluster has sporty overtones with aluminium look surrounds, a theme that is carried over to the steering wheel face and centre console. There are new dials and a new piano black finish to parts of the dash. The fit and finish is beyond reproach with high quality materials evident throughout. It's roomy too with ample room for up to five adults and a huge boot to swallow their luggage.
Standard equipment on the Executive tested is impressive and includes heated and folding door mirrors, DCS, (stability control) TCS, (traction control) ABS, EBD (electronic brakeforce distribution) and EBA (electronic brake assist), as well as twin airbags, side curtain airbags and day running lights. Owners will also appreciate the dual zone heating, air conditioning, cruise control, a lovely stereo CD system with MP3 compatibility, and a leather trimmed multi function steering wheel. The interior trims have been improved and a worthy new safety feature added called RVM. Essentially this is an audible warning device which bleeps to warn the driver of a car behind and or beside them in another lane if they signal to overtake. It really works well and guards that dangerous blindspot in all cars particularly when changing lanes on motorways.
The newly revised 2.2 litre turbo diesels are more eco-friendly with lower emissions, better performance and lower fuel consumption. Good engineering Mazda!
The three power options with Standard 129PS, Mid 163 PS and High 180PS. This facelift Mazda6 will soar past the motorway limit unnoticed and gobbles up rows of traffic with ease making for safe and rapid overtaking. The short change six-speed gearbox is light and easy to use adding to the sporting dynamic of the car. (The optional five-speed auto has been improved.) Emissions are 138gkm which translates into a road tax of €156 a year.
Finally it also proves economical burning just 6.1 litres of diesel per 100km a week's road test, giving the new 2010 Mazda6 a range in excess of 850km between refuels.
The technical mods to this car are really too numerous to detail, but one area that received a lot of attention was the suspension set-up. Mazda felt the previous car was a bit too firm, no doubt based on customer feedback. So with many tweaks it now have a car that ides and handles Irish roads with aplomb.
This car is a real cracker on a twisty country road. It has a perfect blend of comfortable ride, and yet quite sporting handling. Point the new 6 at a corner and it will track your chosen line as though on rails, while the nicely weighted steering lets you know what the front wheels are doing and the powerful all-round discs provide reassuring stopping power. All in all it's a well sorted car that proves rewarding to drive. Noise levels are commendably low making the new Mazda6 a comfortable, refined and quiet car to be in.
Pricing starts at just €25,485 for the 2.2 diesel four door executive; the 2.2 diesel four door Executive SE is €26,485.
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