Insurance Group: 21
MPG: 40.4
CO2: 161
0-62 Mph: 10.4 secs
BHP: 153 BHP
Range: 569 miles
PROS: This TS model has some nice touches like automatic wipers, 17-inch alloy wheels, and it’s much cheaper to buy than the diesel model.
CONS: The engine doesn’t give the same economy or low-down pulling power of the diesel models, and upgrading to TS2 trim costs a lot more than this TS version.
The cabin has cowled dials and circular air vents giving it a nice sporty touch, but sadly some of the material used elsewhere seems hard and plasticky. The dash is generally well laid-out and user friendly. Forward visibility is excellent and finding the ideal driving position is no problem as there is plenty of adjustment both on the driver’s seat and steering wheel.
The 157bhp, 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder, 16-valve petrol engine is refined and fast. It’ll take you from 0-62mph in 10.4 seconds and on to a top speed of 131mph easily. It’s got plenty of pull producing 142lb-ft of torque, ideal for overtaking with ease and is reasonably economical returning an average fuel economy of 40.4mpg.
If your pockets can stand it - there's also the 168bhp 2.5-litre petrol unit available but while being much brisker, it’s a bit of a guzzler.
The Mazda’s handling is superb, both grippy and agile, and with light and precise steering. It’s very competent and relaxed while cruising with minimal road and wind-noise. Rougher surfaces can produce more road-noise but it’s not unbearable. Overall it’s a very comfortable ride, but not as well refined as that of the Ford Mondeo.
The Mazda 6 estate looks sleek and refined, and is capable of rubbing shoulders with any of its competitors with pride. Its styling gives it a nice low sporty stance on the road while giving the impression that it’s wider and longer than it actually is.
The range starts with the TS which comes with central locking, DSC stability Control, alloy wheels, climate control, electric door mirrors, electric front windows, cruise control, alarm, immobiliser and a CD +MP3 connectivity as standard.
Upgrading to the TS2 gets you automatic head-lights, fog lights upfront, and Bluetooth. The Sport trim brings larger alloys, CD changer, xenon headlights and a better sound-system.
Metallic paint will set you back an extra £420.
The Mazda is very spacious overall - with ample room for passengers up front and able to accommodate three adults reasonably well in the back. Its boot provides ample space and is neatly designed. With its rear seats in place it gives you 519-litres, and with the rear seats down up to 1,751-litres with a flat floor ideal for large loads, beating the space provided in the Mondeo.
All Mazda 6 models come with six airbags, daytime-running lights, electronically assisted ABS and stability and traction control systems. Anti-theft deterrents include a top-notch alarm, immobiliser and deadlocks. EuroNCAP gave crash-test ratings of 4 for occupant safety, 4 for children and 1 for pedestrians, with the maximum rating of 5 overall.
The 6 estate looks stylish, yet durable, and owners have praised reliability, rating it as above average. In fact there are few of its competitors that can match it on reliability. It comes with Mazda’s 3-year (60,000 miles) warranty and 12,500 mile service intervals.
The Mazda 6, 2.0 TS five-door estate, priced at £20,105 represents good value for money all-round. It’s well built and reliable, and offers good performance with practical space.
Mazdas also have better than average C02 emission figures and this 2.0 TS estate model is no exception with CO2 emissions of 161g/km putting it in VED band G for Road Tax. Good fuel economy (40.4mpg) for it class, being well equipped and maintaining good resell values make it a more attractive option than the pricier diesel options or even the TS2 trim version which costs quite a bit more.
Insurance in group 21 won’t strain your pockets too much either.
The Mazda 6 estate is a strong candidate for anyone looking for the practicality of an estate without sacrificing performance or comfort.
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