Mazda 6 MPS

	The MPS loves to be thrown into corners, is highly adjustable and very rewarding.

Worse still, the modifications make it appear worse than the standard model – just look at the blunt nose, awkward grille and flat rear spoiler. And Mazda’s designers seem to have been on a tea break when the cabin was styled. The red dials look cheap and nasty, the MPS badge has simply been stuck on and the seats lack lateral support to the extent that you end up with a bruised left shin from having to brace yourself against the centre console.

So what’s the MPS doing here? Well, from the moment you first sample the firm weighting of the clutch and gearlever, you can tell this car is something special. With a 2.3-litre turbo motor and all-wheel drive, it has much in common with the Mitsubishi Evo. There are striking similarities in the driving experience, too.

We achieved 0-60mph in 5.7 seconds in the MPS – nearly a second faster than the official figure. What’s more, its phenomenal traction, excellent stability and brilliant chassis are on a par with the Mitsubishi’s. The MPS loves to be thrown into corners, is highly adjustable and very rewarding. It’s an Evo without the aggression and undesirable image, but with nine-tenths of the driver appeal. A surprisingly potent mix.

Text AUTO 192277 to 88833 to download the Mazda 6 MPS engine ringtone to your mobile.

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