Road Test: 2014 Mazda6 Grand Touring
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- Mazda has completely redesigned the 6 and as it sits there in the parking space, I can't seem to get my eyes off of it. Bulging fenders, flowing lines into doors, well thought out roof lines and athletic stances all make the 6 not only unique, but a stop and look at it car.
Inside, a simple and comfortable interior. Seats are bolstered, gauges are easy to read and there is a lot of safety equipment like radar cruise control, blind spot warning systems and my favorite rearview camera with cross-traffic warning.
On the long road trip I am on, it is a pleasure to drive. The inline-4 with Skyactiv Technology that produces 148 horses has some punch to it without being overwhelming. The six-speed automatic is crisp and invites you to get to know it via paddle shifters. It is very responsive.
On the highway, the Mazda6 shines with a taut ride that is firm but not bouncy. The sports car pedigree really comes through here. Take it off the interstate though and get into it on the backroads and eight hours of driving become a pleasure instead of a chore. Slipping through curves, the 6 asks you to push it a bit more and when you do, it rewards you with the car driver connection that comes in cars costing a lot more.
Sticker price is $31,490 pretty well loaded. Thirty mpg combined EPA rating and so far it's not far off.
The Mazda6 has a lot going for it. So far I am really enjoying driving this midsize sedan and even better admiring its spectacular lines. Art meets car. Mazda got this one right.
Learn more about the 2014 Mazda6 Grand Touring from Mazda.
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