2011 Mazda 6 Review
Price
from: RM148,933
to: RM174,877
Installment
from: RM1,420/mth
to: RM1,668/mth
2011 Mazda 6 at a glance
Offering a compelling alternative to comfort-biased rivals, the 2011 Mazda 6 is still the undisputed leader in handling, while the interior room and refinement have been improved. The ride is firm but not uncomfortable.
2011 Mazda 6 quick specs
| Body Style | Sedan |
| Class | Large Family |
| Assembled | - |
| Engine Range | - |
| Fuel Options | - |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
2011 Mazda 6 ratings (overall rating : 4/5.0)
| Styling | |
| Handling | |
| Comfort | |
| Quality + Reliability | |
| Performance |
| Roominess | |
| Running Costs | |
| Value for Money | |
| Equipment | |
| Environment |
Styling
The direction for most new cars these days is to go bigger. Mazda has taken a different direction for the Mazda6, opting for a shorter, sleeker car. From the muscular, flowing lines to the almond-shaped headlights, we reckon Mazda has succeeded in creating a sleek-looking car with plenty of visual presence.
Handling
With 50 kg less than the previous model, the 2011 Mazda6 handles even more crisply. Mazda6 drivers can look forward to driving fun so rarely available with such large family sedans. Keen responses, minimal body roll and loads of grip are sure signs of capable handling, although the light, accurate steering could use more feedback.
Comfort
The sporty-feeling cabin is a comfortable place, providing a comprehensive range of steering and seating adjustments. Controls are easy to use, but it will be better if the settings of some controls are displayed in the same panel as the controls themselves. The ride is firm but not uncomfortable, while refinement has improved, even if wind and road noise are still more noticeable compared to class leaders.
Quality + Reliability
The interior trim looks good, and feels solidly put together too. But some dash plastics are uncharacteristically hard to the touch. According to JD Power customer satisfaction surveys, Mazda has consistently taken the top few spots in terms of reliability. And we expect the 2011 Mazda6 to maintain that impressive record.
Performance
There are two engines: 149 bhp 2.0-litre and 172 bhp 2.5-litre. Both engines deliver power smoothly via a five-speed automatic transmission. Most except for avid drivers should get the 2.0-litre as it offers the better compromise between outright performance and fuel economy.
Roominess
Front driver and passenger expectedly enjoy ample room, while rear passengers get class-competitive legroom and headroom, despite the sloping roofline. The large, well-shaped boot offers generous loading capacity.
Running Costs
Both 2.0-litre and 2.5-litre offer good fuel consumption figures. Mazda6 owners should however be prepared for higher servicing costs and steeper depreciation compared to the class-leading Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.
Value for Money
The 2011 Mazda6 brings an interesting sporty slant to large family sedans in Malaysia. Although more expensive and less refined, the 2011 Mazda6 is a compelling alternative to comfort-biased rivals such as the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, which is the sportier of the two.
Equipment
The 2.0-litre gets 2-Din audio system with CD changer and MP3-capability, four speakers, Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), traction control, dual front airbags, active headrests, front seatbelts with pretensioners, and immobiliser. The 2.5-litre adds 18-inch instead of 16-inch aluminium wheels, adaptive headlamps, fog lamps, electric sunroof, rear spoiler, electric leather seats, cruise control, paddle shift, six-CD changer with eight speakers, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and side, curtain airbags.
Environment
The 2011 Mazda6 has improved fuel economy and carbon dioxide emissions over the previous model, allowing it to close the gap with the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry in environmental awareness.
Live Life Drive Verdict
Sleek-looking
Excellent sporty handling
Roomy interior
Slightly firm ride
Some hard cabin plastics
Rivals are quieter
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