2020 Mazda 6

Pros: Athletic, nimble handling makes for fun-to-drive personality among mainstream midsize cars; very respectable fuel economy; good passenger and cargo room

Cons: Acceleration is only so-so with base engine; a little more road noise than some midsize sedans; ride is a bit taut for the class

CG Says: The 2020 Mazda 6 is unchanged. The Mazda 6’s model roster ascends through Sport, Touring, Grand Touring, and topline Grand Touring Reserve and Signature trim levels. Standard on Sport and Touring models is a 187-hp 2.5-liter naturally-aspirated 4-cylinder. Grand Touring, Grand Touring Reserve, and Signature models come with a turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder that makes 250 horsepower on premium gasoline and 227 hp on regular. Both engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Mazda’s Smart City Brake Support system, which automatically applies the brakes to avoid collisions at speeds below 20 mph, is a standard feature, along with blind-spot alert, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. Other available features include ventilated front seats, a 360-degree surround-view monitor, LED headlights, lane-departure warning, and head-up instrument display. The Mazda 6 is an athletic, fun-to-drive midsize sedan that is also roomy and practical. The 6’s lack of a higher-performance engine option was a shortcoming for many shoppers, but that has been addressed with the available turbocharged engine. The ritzy Grand Touring Reserve and Signature trim levels make the Mazda 6 a more attractive option for entry-luxury sedan buyers as well.