The quality of the materials impresses, as does the upscale, mature design and restrained detailing. Inside, the 6 looks like a much pricier car than it is. The model with base engine that we previously tested delivered 37 mpg on that route, a 2-mpg advantage versus its EPA highway rating. The last turbo 6 we tested exceeded the government's highway estimate on our 200-mile real-world route, earning a C/D rating of 36 mpg.
We don't know yet if the turbocharged version's increased torque rating will affect its fuel economy, but the 2020 model had estimates of 23 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. This sedan should earn 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway when equipped with the base four-cylinder, according to the EPA.
Michael Simari | Car and Driver More on the Mazda 6 Sedan Make no mistake, it's still the most fun-to-drive sedan in this segment. None of this can diminish how well the Mazda 6 drives and rides, especially considering how quiet the cabin is. Chalk this up, at least in part, to the new tires it wore, which the company fitted to help reduce tire noise. In our testing, the top-of-the-line Signature model had less absolute grip and longer braking distances than the 2016 model.
And Mazda manages to provide the thrills without sacrificing refinement or ride quality. The Mazda 6 offers above-average driving satisfaction for a family sedan, with a fluidity to its controls and handling that is uncommon at any price. Every engine pairs with an excellent six-speed automatic transmission that's proficient at finding the right gear, whether downshifting for extra oomph or upshifting for steady cruising. The turbo 2.5-liter gained 10 pound-feet of torque for 2021, raising that output to 320 pound-feet, but this requires using premium fuel. The standard engine makes 187 horsepower, while the available turbocharged engine generates up to 250 horsepower. Mazda does provide a choice of two responsive 2.5-liter four-cylinder engines, though. Unlike most mid-size alternatives, the Mazda 6 does not offer a hybrid option. And may we say that the 6 looks especially attractive wearing Mazda's signature Soul Red Crystal metallic? The only other thing you'll need to select is the paint color. The trim level's lack of options makes the build process easy. It also comes with several upgrades over the less-grand Touring model, such as a leather-wrapped steering wheel with shift paddles, a Bose audio system, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, wireless Apple CarPlay capability, and more. The Grand Touring is the least expensive way to get the 250-hp turbocharged engine, which helps the 6 feel more like a proper sports sedan than the base four-cylinder ever could. However, there are rumors the mid-size sedan could return for a new generation with rear-wheel drive and an inline-six-cylinder engine. Mazda has also announced that the 6 won't return for the 2022 model year, as the company plans to discontinue it. Lastly, the Signature model adds rear automated emergency braking and a driver-attention monitor. Mazda also retuned the 6's turbocharged engine to make an extra 10 pound-feet of torque (for 320 total), but you'll need to run 93-octane fuel to achieve that.
Every Mazda 6 now has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability (and any trim above the Touring comes with wireless CarPlay).
The theme continues inside with black trim pieces and red leather upholstery with gray stitching. The latter inherits all the equipment of the Grand Touring Reserve trim and wears a Polymetal Gray paint color, black exterior accents, and a set of dark 19-inch wheels. The 2021 Mazda 6 benefits from the addition of a few new features and an appearance package called the Carbon Edition. Although the 2021 Mazda 6 isn't perfect, it's one of the classiest entries in this class of family-oriented four-doors and an Editors' Choice winner. We wish Mazda would make the car's fanciest features available across the board, but even the lower end of the lineup has a host of standard driver assists and popular technology. Neither its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine or the more potent turbo version are particularly compelling, and there's currently no eco-friendly hybrid model, but the 6 drives with a mix of athleticism and refinement that broadens its appeal. While the Mazda isn't as flawless as the Honda Accord or as fresh as the Hyundai Sonata, it definitely delivers a more expensive-feeling experience than either of those top-flight alternatives. The 2021 Mazda 6 isn't just the prettiest family sedan, it's also more enjoyable to drive and ride in than most of its peers.