Mazda 6

Until the 6 zoom-zoomed on to the scene at the beginning of last year, Mazda saloons had something of a dull reputation. Its 626 predecessor was decent enough, but insipid styling and lack of character meant the car was never a common sight on UK roads.
Eighteen months later, Mazda is enjoying its best-ever sales period, thanks mainly to the 6. Praised at launch for great styling and even better dynamic ability, it has become one of the most popular cars in its class.
Further success came at the start of this year, when the 6 was voted Britain's most reliable car in Auto Express's Driver Power survey. All of which bodes well for its future. And, if you buy a one-year-old example now, you'll save a healthy amount, and still have a car that's as good as family saloons get.
Checklist
* Interior: some owners have reported frayed seats on models fitted with dark-coloured trim. Only a handful of cars are affected, and they will be fixed under warranty.
* Electrics: a few early UK cars have given phantom 'check engine' warnings, due to a dodgy oil pressure sensor. Get a Mazda dealer to change the sensor - simple!
* Bodywork: the 6 is too new to suffer major body problems, but the bumpers can get scuffed easily and cost £200-plus to replace. Use minor dents as a bargaining point.
* Trim: so far there have been no major reliability issues. However, the plastic sunglasses holder is prone to rattles and can break, while the rear tonneau cover on estates could be better made.
* Boot: if the Mazda is parked pointing downhill in heavy rain, water can seep into the luggage compartment. Check the load area for any signs of dampness.
Driving Impressions
In terms of driver appeal, the 6 is up there with the Ford Mondeo and Honda Accord. It has great handling, keen engines and a super driving position.
The cabin is well laid-out and comfortable, while spec is generous, with even the base car having alloys, four electric windows, air-con, a good CD and heated mirrors. The 1.8 petrol needs to be driven hard to extract the best performance, but it is still competent and reasonably entertaining.
Glass's View
The 6 is a safe investment. Values are holding up much better than for other cars in the sector. It is desirable, stylish and increasingly popular, and has dramatically changed people's perceptions of Mazda as a brand, casting a halo over the rest of the model line-up. Its reputation as a sporting, dynamic and well made family car will continue to grow, while carefully managed dealer stocks and limited supply will keep residuals high for the foreseeable future. Jeff Paterson, Snr Cars Editor, Glass's Guide
Life With A Mazda 6
The 6 is fabulous. I never expected it to be this good when I took delivery. My son had one and kept going on about how great it was. Now, 6,000 miles on, I fully agree with him. My 2.0 TD Sport is quick, refined, economical and exciting to drive. Reg Curvey, Malvern, Worcestershire
Having owned a 626 before, I knew Mazdas were reliable. The 6 feels much posher, though. Neil Roberts, Lampeter, Ceredigion

Verdict

This is a car that offers character, style and build quality... a contender for top spot in this hotly contested sector. Keen pricing, excellent dynamics and lively engines make it an attractive package, while a roomy cabin and clever boot mean it's also practical. Previous Mazdas in this class have been dull and unrewarding to drive, but the 6 proves it's time to put aside your prejudices. It is Mazda's most convincing mainstream model in a long time, and deserves to succeed.