Mazda 6 Wagon 2020 – still to the world

We have already ventilated the Mazda 6 several times in the editorial test. The current generation Mazda 6 has been on the Slovak market since 2013, and since then it has undergone a series of minor and major changes. In 2015, the front fascia was slightly changed and all-wheel drive appeared for diesel versions. Later, for the 2017 model year, LED indicators integrated into the exterior mirrors and a slightly changed shape of the steering wheel came. The latest "six" is completely smoothed and polished to perfection.

Although this is a very subjective matter, I allow myself with a clear conscience to declare the "six" as the most beautiful car in its class. The dynamic lines of the exterior do not fit even with the darker shade of paint of the tested version, and when choosing red, it reveals its sex appeal far and wide. The latest incarnation is revealed by slightly redesigned bumpers and LED headlights as standard, and a huge front mask with a distinctive logo of the car company is also a distinguishing sign. However, let's look for the main changes below the surface…

If the austerity of the interiors of some European competitors is a bit against your grain, the "six" might catch your eye. Over the years, the dashboard has changed significantly, starting with the infotainment system with a redesigned eight-inch display (standard from the second lowest trim level), ending with the climate control panel. Even the rotary HMI on the center console is now prettier. Wherever possible, Mazda used softened plastics and there is also leather. In the tested version with brown Nappa leather, it is a very nice living room on wheels.

After sitting behind the wheel, it takes a top position in relation to the steering. It sits low, there is excellent thigh support and lateral back support. In addition, the front seat can be newly ventilated. The seats don't even blow air at you, but "draw" it in, which is a bit more pleasant compared to the solutions of the competition. At the same time, I appreciate that Mazda still hasn't taken the path of digitization at all costs. The instrument panel is analog and nicely readable (although the simple on-board computer is still limited to only the most necessary data). In addition, you can enjoy an exclusive view through the HUD display projected on the windshield.

The eight-inch multimedia screen sits high enough so that it does not significantly distract the driver's attention. The graphics have a high-quality resolution, and the infotainment system is finally fast and responds cleverly to the instructions of the controller on the center console. Unlike the new "three", it can be controlled while standing and by touch. It almost seems that I will have nothing to criticize Mazda here. However, the image quality from the front and rear parking cameras is still poor. Low-quality depictions of what's going on around the vehicle could perhaps be excused in lower-category cars, but for the brand's flagship, it's such a minor blemish on the beautiful enamel.

In terms of space, there is nothing to complain about the six. I immediately found the ideal position behind the wheel and, with a height of 186 cm, I sit in the back with a margin of a few centimeters in front of my knees and above my head (I salute the new Peugeot 508). In the case of a more practical body variant, the Japanese worked with a length of 4805 mm and a wheelbase of 2750 mm. The sedan is even better, the length is 4870 mm and the wheelbase is a respectable 2830 mm.

The newly tuned chassis has a stiffer character, and the Skyactiv-Chassis architecture is helped by a new suspension geometry, a new location of the rear control arms and a steeper steering gear. This gives it better feedback and the car reacts precisely to steering wheel instructions. With 19 tires (225/45) on, the chassis irons out unevenness without significant bumps into the cabin, which is great considering the size of the wheels. However, it takes a lot more work on transverse bumps, and some kind of impact from the rear axle sometimes "knocks" inwards.

We tested the station wagon again with a 2.2-liter diesel unit with a power of 135 kW (184 hp) and 445 Nm of torque was available at 2,000 rpm. It cooperates with an automatic transmission with a hydrodynamic converter, with a wide range of bridging to six speed levels, which brings a fairly quick response to stepping on the gas, smooth shifting and smooth start-up.

You can't really complain about the ailment in the form of jerking when starting off, the drivetrain reacts to stepping on the gas pedal immediately, so overtaking is a joy in such a car. The only ailment of this engine is its rough running, when the typical sound of commonrail engines penetrates the interior during sharp acceleration, reminiscent of the classic TDi from the late 90s. As everything else is excellently soundproofed, this is the only disturbing element in an otherwise comfortable and quiet car.

Mazda used more advanced noise reduction for the new six, and if we're talking about aerodynamic noise around the mirrors, it was minimal even at highway speeds. The on-board computer showed consumption of just over seven liters after the first hundred kilometers, which is a decent value considering my faster pace.

If you are thinking about a car in this category and have an Insignia, Passat, Superb or Mondeo in your sights, be sure to take a ride in the new Mazda 6. Compared to these competitors, it is walking its own path and looking back over the last few years, I am not afraid to say that it has matured like wine. The Six will definitely win you over with its beautiful design, practical cabin and excellently functioning chassis. It has its flaws, such as low-quality cameras and, for some, meaningless noise from the engine. But these are small scratches and due to the perfectly functioning chassis and great comfort, we can easily forgive it…

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