Touring beauty

What we like:

Competent handling

voluminous space and long equipment list.

What we dislike:

None.

There’s a satisfying rumble when you turn the key on the 2.5-litre straight four under the hood. This without any modifications to the exhaust or intake manifolds. And makes the Mazda sound a lot more robust than its 192bhp suggests. Naturally aspirated, the 250Nm of torque comes in higher up the rev range compared to turbo engines at 3,250rpm But once there, it unleashes a strong shove.

At 8.2 seconds to 100kmh, the Wagon is strangely quicker than the sedan and feels that way too. This we couldn’t account for as it is actually heavier than the sedan. Once up to speed, the car rides smoothly over broken tarmac with very little of it ever reaching the cabin.

Under hard cornering, the chassis feels positive and very amenable to the driver’s demands. Although compliant over broken surfaces, the suspension manages to resist significant lean during these extreme maneuvers.

Sound insulation generally reflects the overall build quality of the car and in this respect, the Mazda 6 is impressive. Road and tyre noise are muted to a reasonable level and isn’t quite as intrusive as the previous generation.

There’s no doubt that the Mazda 6 Wagon is aimed at the continental buyer and makes a very strong case. Priced within striking range of continental sedans, the Mazda 6 makes its stand with a decent equipment list, impressive driving dynamics, good looks and more importantly, SPACE!

Though there are plenty of continentals at this price range, none of them offer the same combination as the Mazda 6 Wagon.

Credits: Story and Photos by Benjamin G. Kline