Mazda 6 TS2

'Road tester seeks long-term companion with lively character and a practical, down-to-earth nature…' If I were writing a lonely hearts ad to seek out my perfect long-term test car, that’s probably how it would read.

Since I became road test editor four months ago, I’ve drifted away from my Mazda 6 daily driver as I take the wheel of every new model in our car park. But despite having neglected my trusty hatch for a while, when I was reunited with OE57 TFV it was clear it is my ideal match.

Because I have no children a car such as the 6 might seem like an odd choice, but its talents run deep. Loading in the kids is now the preserve of the MPV driver – the regular family model has evolved into a practical, stylish and great-to-drive option for anyone looking for some space.

I’ve regularly stretched the Mazda’s load capacity to the limit carrying bikes, holiday luggage and even new carpet in the back. Not only is the huge boot a bonus, but the way the rear seats fold down with one pull of a lever is superb. The ‘suck-shut’ hatch is the icing on the cake, especially given the size and weight of the tailgate. Climbing back behind the wheel, I was struck by how tough it must be for dealers to get people interested in the showroom. The dash’s build quality has stood up to seven months of use, but its dull design hasn’t got any more interesting.

That’s a shame, because it is not at all representative of the Mazda’s driving experience. Despite a recent, thankfully repairable, slow puncture, the 6 never fails to entertain with its hot hatch-like responses and direct steering. The punchy performance only seems to get stronger as the miles pile on.

Frugal economy has also made it a popular long-distance choice. A 41.1mpg average is predictably short of the 50.4mpg combined figure, but bearing in mind the central London location of the Auto Express office it’s more than respectable. Having done nearly 12,000 miles the model will soon be due a service, which will give us a chance to see if the firm’s dealers are as capable as its cars.

Only when you spend time with the 6 do you begin to appreciate the depth of its talents. There’s no doubt about it, then – absence definitely makes the heart grow fonder.

Mazda 6 TS2

Run by: Chris Thorp

Why are we running it: To see if we can rediscover the joys of traditional family car motoring

Price new: £18,420

Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl turbodiesel

Power: 138bhp

CO2 emissions: 149g/km

Option: Metallic paint (£350)

Trade-in-now: £12,150

Running costs: 44ppm

Insurance group: 8

Insurance quote: £364

Mileage: 11,947

Economy: 41.1mpg

Costs: £17.50 (tyre repair)

Any problems: Slow puncture, clutch beginning to feel a bit worn

What I rate about the Mazda 6...
Top of the list has to be the driving experience – only the Ford Mondeo offers comparable handling finesse in this class. And this is one seriously practical five-door. Yet it has no SUV or MPV styling traits, and looks all the better for it. I reckon the Mazda is really well proportioned – rare in today’s market.

...And what I don’t!
The only problem with the bright metallic paint is that when it’s dirty, it’s really drab. Inside, the cabin could do with classier upholstery – the cheap-looking cloth trim has lasted fine, but it detracts from the Mazda’s appeal. The clutch isn’t wearing so well, biting more sharply and higher than ever.