With the arrival of the new Mazda MX-5 RF, the new CX-5 and the Mazda3 restyling, the revamped Mazda6 isn't Mazda's loudest new addition for 2017. It's not the loudest new thing, but it's definitely one of the trumps Japanese brand to boost growth in Europe.
Among the new features of this revamped Mazda6 we highlight: the new touchscreen, the improved head-up display, the revised 175hp SKYACTIV-D 2.2 engine (quieter and more efficient) and, finally, the G-Vectoring Control system. Read our first test of the Mazda6 (van variant) here.
In this three-volume version, little or nothing changes from the van that we tested a little over two months ago. The premises remain: the Mazda6 is a competent family member, well equipped and with a pleasant engine. So what are the differences?
Mazda6 2.2 SKYACTIV-D 175 hp Excellence Pack
Space
A curious fact: the Mazda6 saloon version is bigger than the estate version – it's 7 cm longer and has a wheelbase 8 cm longer. Thus, contrary to what would be expected, the passengers in the back seat of the saloon are given a few centimeters of space compared to the van version.
The reason for these differences is simple to explain. While the three-volume version was designed for the North American market (Americans like big cars), the estate version was designed exclusively for the European market. In either case, the housing allowances are generous.
In terms of trunk, the conversation is different. The three-volume variant offers 480 liters of space, less than the van's 522 liters, which, thanks to the folding seats, makes it possible to extend its volume up to 1,664 liters.
Mazda6 2.2 SKYACTIV-D 175 hp Excellence Pack
Manual vs. automatic
Taking into account the qualities of the six-speed manual transmission that fitted the van variant we tested – qualities common to all models in the Mazda range, we feared that the change to an automatic transmission would affect the engine's response and driving pleasure. . Well then, we couldn't be more wrong.
The six-speed SKYACTIV-Drive gearbox that equips this version does itself well, showing itself to be surprisingly balanced and capable of providing smooth and precise gearshifts. Even so, the differences compared to the manual transmission are revealed both in terms of performance (more 0.5 seconds from 0-100 km/h) and in consumption (more 0.3 l/100 km) and emissions (more 8 g/km of CO2). If we add the €4,000 difference to this, the scale seems to tip over the side of the manual gearbox.
The decision will depend on what they value most. Consumption and efficiency or comfort of use?
Sedan or van? It depends.
That said, when choosing one or the other version, the answer will always depend on the type of use we intend to make of the Mazda6. With the certainty that, whichever you choose, you have a great product in the Mazda6.