Review
I’ve stretched the Mazda6’s legs a bit more this month, with a handful of trips across the Midlands and East Anglia, and it has given me a chance to examine its capabilities in more detail.
Many of the fleet car drivers who would have been the prime market for this diesel-powered estate a few years ago have since been tempted by crossover SUVs.
But benchmarking the Mazda6 against similarly priced diesel estate cars and en-vogue crossover SUVs, using JATO data, shows that while estates may be falling out of fashion they still remain a practical choice for families and sales reps with lots of kit to carry. Examination of the very popular Kia Sportage and Ford Kuga shows they offer considerably less boot space and, despite similar or better miles per gallon, emit more CO2 and offer less power. Customers tempted by a BMW roundel must sacrifice both capacity and cash for the prestige.
In truth, the Mazda6’s main threat in this segment is the Škoda Superb, thanks to its vast loadspace.
The choice of large estates is diminishing, but Mazda’s dealers can still find customers for this trusted workhorse.
An award-winning journalist and editor, with two decades of experience covering the motor retail industry, and accredited by the Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM) plus the National Council for the Training of Journalist (NCTJ)
As editor of AM since 2016, Tim is responsible for its media content, planning and production across AM's multiple channels, including the website, digital reports, webinars, social media and the editorial content of AM's events, Automotive Management Live and the AM Awards. His focus is on interviewing senior leaders of franchised dealer groups and motor manufacturer national sales companies to examine latest developments in UK motor retail.
Factsheet
Factsheet
Price: from £29,195
Engine: 2.2-diesel, 150PS
Performance: 0-62mph 10.2secs, top speed 130mph
Gearbox: 6sp manual
Efficiency: 46.3 mpg
Emissions: CO2 119g/km (WLTP)