Poor Man’s BMW: 2014 Mazda 6 Review and Test Drive

Over the last five years, it seems like the companies that make midsize sedans are in a race to the top. Every year, one brand seems to outbid another in the competition to build a reasonably priced car that looks and feels like a premium entry from a BMW or Lexus. The latest escalation of this conflict takes the form of the 2014 Mazda 6 sedan. While the Mazda 6 has been around since 2004, the latest generation was off the radar for most buyers. With radical, sporty styling and impressive quality, this Mazda may be about to disrupt the status quo in the segment in the same way the Mazda 3 did to compacts 10 years ago.

Inside, the Mazda 6 has a Germanic look that’s a common trend for midsize sedans. What’s special about this interior is that the materials are comparable in look and feel to a BMW 3 Series. Everything from the door handles to the dashboard padding, steering wheel and gear knob feel solid and well-crafted. Infotainment and navigation are controlled with a wheel behind the gear stick, just like BMW’s iDrive. In addition to looking expensive, the infotainment system is well-equipped, even on the base model. All models feature bluetooth audio transmission and USB interface. Most models offer dual-zone climate control, which is a welcome feature. Overall, the Mazda 6 has the best interior of any midsize sedan on sale today.

On the highway, the Mazda 6 suffers a little less than the powerful 189-hp 4-cylinder engine. While the car can accelerate fast enough for everyday driving, it lacks the extra oomph to match the car’s sporty styling. The transmission is excellent and shifts quickly and smoothly.

The car’s ride is firm but still very comfortable in the tradition of the best sports sedans. What comes as a disappointment with the Mazda 6 is the steering. It feels much more like something from one of its much heavier rivals like the Toyota Camry. While the car turns very well, it lacks steering feel and doesn’t feel responsive. That would be a disappointment for any car, but it’s worse with the Mazda 6 because our expectations are so high.

The end result: a beautiful interior and expressive styling, all at a reasonable price. This is as close to premium sport sedan quality as you’ll find in the midsize segment.