2014 Mazda6 Debut

What's New

No segment in the U.S. is more important than the midsize family sedan, and Mazda has quickly realized if you want growth, you'll need an ultra-competitive vehicle here. Luckily, that vehicle just may be the 2014 Mazda6. Featuring the latest Kodo design language, the Mazda6 looks sharp. Getting inside is treat too, as the cabin is well-appointed and has a distinctly premium feel. After months of speculation, Mazda used the 2012 LA Auto Show to officially announce that it will--as we had speculated for months--bring the Skyactiv-D diesel engine that is already at work in Japan and other markets. But the 2014 Mazda6 will start off with the 2.5-liter gasoline engine rated at 184 hp. Fuel economy figures are not yet available in the U.S., but we expect the Mazda6 to be extremely competitive here.

Who It's For

The midsize sedan segment is filled with good family-hauling sedans. Stalwarts like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord have long dominated the market, and newer players like the fresh-faced Ford Fusion are looking for a share too. While the 2014 Mazda6 won't eclipse the heavy-hitters in sales, it's fun-to-drive nature, bold new styling, and competitive pricing will ensure it can hold its own. With the popular Nissan Altima having undergone a recent update, and highly-styled competitors from Korea looking to increase market share, the Mazda6 will have no shortage of competition.

Key Features

The 2014 Mazda6 has been restyled inside and out, to make it a strong competitor among America's toughest segment.

• Bold new Kodo "soul of motion" design language
• Enters with a 2.5-liter gasoline engine, a 2.2-liter turbocharged diesel is to follow
• Features Mazda's newest 5.8-in media touch-screen, HD radio, Bluetooth, Pandora
• Unlike much of the midsize competition, the Mazda6 is fun to drives toughest segment.

What We Think

The midsize family sedan segment is filled with the best of the major automakers. To be competitive, you need to have an exceptional offering. The 2014 Mazda6 won't displace the leaders on the sales charts, but it will be instantly among the top of the pack. Exceptional styling inside and out, good, fuel-efficient powertrain options, and a fun-to-drive nature will please buyers and make loyalists out of newcomers.

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