Mazda 6 facelift: Test Drive Review

Date: 20 May 2010   |   Author: Rachel Burgess

Category: Upper medium P11D price: £20,765 Key rival: Toyota Avensis

The most popular fleet model will remain the 2.2-litre 162hp manual diesel in TS2 trim - one below top-of-the-range Sport.

Emissions are improved - on this model they're down to 142g/km from 147g/km, dropping a tax band to 20% BIK. UK managing director Jeremy Thomson admits CO2 hasn't been "a strong point" for the 6 over the past three years, but says emissions are now "very competitive".

The revised model costs up to a £1000 more than its predecessor. Despite this, says Thomson, the car is still able to match rivals in terms of price. Indeed, against its rival Toyota Avensis, the equivalent TR D-4D 150 2.2 diesel model, the 6 comes out slightly cheaper with a P11D price of £20,765 compared to £21,320. The Avensis sits in a higher BIK tax band and so costs £75 a month at 20% tax versus £69 for the Mazda. However, with all things considered, the cost per mile comparison is close - 52.1p for the 6 and 52.7p for the Avensis.

In this rivalry, then, it comes down to preference. To drive, the Mazda 6 is quiet for a diesel and holds roads well. There is also ample power and torque, even at 162hp, although inevitably the 180hp version has that extra oomph. Suspension is much improved, leading to better ride quality and protection from Britain's pothole-ridden roads.

The interior is smart but still a little busy in design and the satnav is antiquated-looking. Still, the car has all the spec you'd expect and more.

The upgraded Mazda 6 will please fans of the brand - Mazda's 400 minor adjustments to the car have helped make this an even more rewarding drive while keeping its practicality as a usable family vehicle.

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