2014 / 2015 Mazda 6 iGrand Touring Review and Road Test
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 25 ก.ค. 2013
- This week we look at Mazda's new CamCord fighter the all-new 2014 Mazda6. Can Mazda pull off a solid mid-sized sedan after their divorce from the Blue Oval? Join us as we find out. We got our hands on the 2.5L iGrand Touring version. Since iLoop had not been released officially yet be sure to check back when we get our hands on that extremely mild hybrid system.
2014 brings Mazda's new corporate grille to the Mazda6, and I have to say, it's a beautiful schnoz. I was a little worried the gaping maw would be too large in person, (in pictures it looks enormous) but up-close-and-personal it has to be the second most attractive front end after the Fusion. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but during the week I was unable to find anyone who disagreed with me. So my opinion reigns supreme. I'm worried however, the proportions look perfect on the Mazda6, so what will the Mazda3 be like? Why am I worried? Because if you park the Mazda6 next to a CX-9 or CX-5, the crossovers look more cartoonish than if they park alone. Just like your girlfriend seems pretty until you park her next to Megan Fox. Although the 2014 model looks longer than the outgoing Mazda6, overall length has been cut by about two inches. Adding "visual length" as well as much-needed rear seat room, the wheelbase has been stretched by two inches to 111.4.
Mazda's nose may be a notch below the Ford in my style-guide, but out back it's a different story. I find the Fusion's rump to be a little awkward. It's almost as if Ford ran out of time and "hurried" the back end of their family hauler. Not so with the Mazda6 which has a finished look from the "raised eyebrow" tail lamps to the twin chrome exhausts. Thanks to the best butt in the business, I call the Ford v. Mazda beauty contest a tie. How about the Koreans? I never warmed to the Sonata, but the Optima is aggressive and attractive, just not as emotional as the Mazda6. Thanks to the low sales volume, the Mazda is also a step outside the ordinary, something that attracts me.
Something that has confused reporters in the past is Mazda's new transmission. Some describe it as a hybrid between a dual clutch and a traditional automatic, some have even suggested that it can "disable" the torque converter. In addition to the 6-speed manual transmission you can opt for the SkyActiv branded traditional automatic transaxle. Traditional? What about the fancy clutches? Here's what Mazda did.
Lock-up torque converters are nothing new, having been introduced in 1949, but in our age of efficiency companies are using them more aggressively. By locking the impeller and turbine (input and output) of the torque converter, you increase efficiency by cutting most of the impelling losses in the torque converter (there are still some because it's still spinning, but it's greatly reduced). Old transmissions only did this in their final gear and relatively infrequently. Modern automatics like GM/Ford's 6-speed transaxle spend about half their time in lock-up and will engage the locking "clutch" in most gears. Mazda's new slushbox is programmed with an aggressive lockup agenda and will lock in every gear. In addition, it spends more time in lockup (80% or more) than a competitive unit on the same driving cycle. The result is a more connected 1:1 relationship between the engine and wheels than you find in a CamFusCord.
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First review I've seen that's shown how this or any car's infotainment system actually works. Amazing when you think that's going to be one of the aspects most drivers will have to interact with every day. Very balanced, focused review, leaves room for the indvidual driver to make up his or her mind. Thumbs up all the way (excellent car BTW)
Alex
I'm always amused at your way of measuring trunk cargo capacity by placing yourself in the trunk itself. Although this technique may be beneficial to a Mafia syndicate or Colombian drug cartel, the rest of us are more concerned with the number of suitcases or grocery bags it will hold. Perhaps you may have a darker past than you are letting on. As usual your reviews are the best on TH-cam, hands down.
I went and bought a used 2015 Mazda 6 GT just because of this video. Awesome 4 clyinder car!!
I miss my sport. Honestly what an amazing car.
This is one of the most informative and frank reviews I have watched.
Another fantastic, organized, and thorough review. Thanks as always!
One of the things that I really like about the 6 is that even the base Sport model looks like a very high-end, especially for the price. I am also very happy that you can get a manual transmission in the Sport and Touring trim levels.
I think that the Touring gives you the most bang-for-the-buck and you can pick one up for around $22-$23k after rebates if you don't go crazy on the options, at least in my area. You can pick up a Sport for $20-$21k, sometimes even less which is a great deal for a mid-sized sedan, especially when you consider that even the low-end car does not look like a cheap car.
I really love that Mazda took the approach that they did to boosting fuel economy numbers. Instead of throwing money at the problem (ex: high cost hybrid systems, forced-induction, etc.) they instead used smart engineering to deliver the same results without needing to add the unnecessary complexity of these additional systems. They made the basics needed for the car the most efficient that they could possibly be instead of just throwing in other systems just to cover up the inefficiencies of the engine and vehicle structure.
I brought this 2014 Mazda 6 iGT with i-Eloop. Have paid quite a bit more than the US neighbor b/c I live in Canada.
Anyways, I really like the ergonomic of driver seat, and all the controls. It is definitely engaging to drive. I don't drive the car for race, so 2.5L four cylinders is pretty good for me. It does has a "Sport" mode which increase the throttle which makes the car more responsive. The back seat has good head room, and the trunk size was surprising larger than I expected from the outside look. I proved to my parents this car's trunk is large enough for all my baby stuffs. I was able to fit a stroller, 2 laptop bags, a suite case , a new diaper box and other junks. Fuel economy on the hwy is excellent. I got the Soul red, everyone in my office love this metallic red.
So... what can this car do better, the software can definitely be improved. One time the TomTom GPS wasn't working , it stuck at lost of GPS signal. Fortunately I was able to figure out how to reset the GPS software. I wish the software come with more fuel economy statistics such as trip fuel usage and past history. An estimated fuel saved using i-Eloop would be good, especially this option isn't cheap. For the i-Eloop model, it would be nice if there is remove the need of transaxle control lock when shifting from park to reverse. Also, I find the the car slow down sooner when cruising compare to a non-iEloop model that I test drove, possibly due to the charing process of the capacitor.
For those who focus more on the the feel of driving, or being engaged, I definitely recommend this car.
+Dicky Sum Anybody complaining about the speed must remember it is a family sedan not a hot hatch and it's a four cylinder
just started to watch your reviews not long ago, and sir, im impressed with all the details you give... thank you for giving us a great review
Another great, in-depth review. Thank you for taking the time to cover the details like infotainment, drive feel, and materials. Add me to the list of folks anxiously awaiting the Mazda6 diesel. Looking forward to that review!
Great review, your comprehensive knowledge shines through
Holy crap this guy knows his stuff. Subbed.
Really impressive review. Very informative and concise . Good job
Great review as always. Keep it up.
I prefer the Accord's infotainment system by far and I think that I like the Accord's interior styling and comfort better as well. The Mazda6's exterior is gorgeous and the driving dynamics are slightly better but the Accord with the 6-speed manual is an excellent vehicle.
I will certainly keep that in mind, in fact we just got a new sound meter in so we can give some numbers to the cabin noise.
It is. I shoot video anywhere from Colma down to Santa Cruz depending on the weather.
Wonderful review, and very informative. Thanks!
Alex, out of all the Mazda6 reviews, no one else pointed out the connectivity issues with your iPhone/Aux devices.Mazda needs to address this right away! This is a deal breaker for me. This is why I always look forward to your detailed reviews. Great job!
Great review. Thanks bro!
Excellent job, Alex!
Very nice review. I have had my Mazda6 for almost 3 months and love it. Handles like it is on rails and goes like crazy, lots of acceleration. I guess my priorities list was different for this car. I wanted nice lines with good handling and MPG. This car fit in all those categories, for me. Is it perfect? No. But, what car is? Does it make me happy? Yes, quite nicely.
Saw one in the street today. Holy shit it looks good in real life! The red paint finish is amazing and the car looks much better than in pictures. The car would look at ease alongside 60000$ luxury sedans.
good review as usual, Mazda done a great job in this car. Seriously, loving it. Do not have no complain at all. exterior and interior looks awesome. plus it is cheaper than camry and honda civic. what else to ask. mazda did great job.
Great review!
great review. thanks
Thank you for all the details on this video, I appreciate it , I will buy a Mazda 6 tomorrow for 13 k bucks
Very good detailed review. Mazda builds a very good car, and this car appears to be quite the driver's car. Again, excellent detailed review.
I didn't have any problems shuffling but it does start with the first song in the playlist every time. It would also take a long time to load the library and had troubles finding all the playlists on my device. Most of my testing is done with Apple iDevices but we still experienced some of these issues with USB sticks. I hope Mazda updates the software soon.
Great review! It's good to hear a real persons opinion. I understand Edmonds and Motortrend are trying to not piss off any of there ad money or sponsors by listing the negatives.
The diesel is high on our list (and my personal list as well) so keep watching and we'll get to it as soon as possible!
Very nice, in depth review. I have been debating on trading in my 2005 Mustang GT for either the sport or touring model Mazda 6. As I am a fellow car enthusiast my self, I do understand they are two completely different class of vehicles. However, I really do like the "European sports sedan" feel that the newly redesigned Mazda 6 has brought to the American market without having to pay the European price tag. I really like the 'kodo" design approach Mazda has taken with the new 6. The interior reminds me of the looks, feel and comfort of a Mercedes Benz C300. Even the more "pronounced" front nose of the car reminds me of the new approach Mercedes has taken with the current C class line up. As well as a very high fuel economy rating considering the size of the car and the "luxury feel" that it offers. To me, it really did feel like a VERY comfortable car that is aimed towards individuals with "spirited driving style" but also want a more practical ride with the added advantage of decent fuel economy. This will be my first brand new car and I have been doing my homework on it as well. Though it will have some pretty big shoes to fill considering what I'm trading in for it, but with it being time to take a more practical approach, I thinks its safe to say, I don't think I will be disappointed. Thank you for sharing your insight on such a great product.
This is probably the best and most everyday real world review I have seen on a vehicle. My suggestions include 1. Cover connection of Android devices like the Galaxy S 4 to the infotainment system; 2. Show how a regular sized typical baby stroller fits in the trunk and maybe luggage as well! Also, yours wasn't fully loaded because the version with i-ELOOP and lane departure warning is $1180 more expensive at $32,870. I'd love to see how those systems work.
Awesome review Alex! I can't wait to test drive the diesel version:) could you compare this car as it is to the base CLA 250. They would be about the same price! I would love your take on the Mercedes. Keep up the great reviews!
I find the low seating position very beneficial. More car control and feel that way. I applaud Mazda for still focus so much on the driver and the driving experience.
I'm sold on Mazda 6's. I was driving an F150 Supercrew, got a job where I have to commute 35 miles one way, so I bought a 2012 Mazda 6, and I LOVE it. Getting close to 30 MPG. Can't wait to trade it on a 2014!
love the concept, but I would like to see another 40hp in it. Great design
Just try one on the dealer lot. If it takes 2+ minutes to start playing from your device, the car is still running the same software we tested.
As soon as I saw you in the trunk, I hit subscribe
Truly a perfect review, thank you very much for the extra effort.
Please keep these videos coming.
hi, i like your review, why dont you do a review for the 2016 mazda 6
A professional review
Alex can you review the new 2017 Mazda 6 really would like to know what you think of it since your 2014 review thanks great job with your reviews.
Very, very soon. I expect it to be up in less than a week. (Assuming I stay on schedule...)
Great! Thanks for the reply
Are you doing a 2014 Mazda3 review soon? Curious to hear your thoughts on the new infotainment system and interior comfort. The car looks great and certainly has my attention. Keep up the great work.
i drive a 2011 Mazda6 iSport... although it does not have a V6 i enjoy driving it. I got it when i was 17 so i had a pretty nice car... I love my Mazda,
Hey u are doing a great job on your reviews but in the future can u please go a bit more detail on the driving experience like how quite the cabin is and the ride quality ... Keep up the good work...
Hi Alex, can you PLEEEEASE review the updated 2016 Mazda 6? Im really considering buying it but I need to know what you think of the updated 2016 model. Thanks =)
6:16 Draw Me Like One of Your French Girls xD
You bet!
Thanks for the review. A very detailed one. I am in a fix between this and ford fusion (both 2015). Which one do you think is better in ride comfort. In ford I am looking for one of the turbocharged engines.
i own a mazda3 and i have to say mazdas are special. they drive and feel so much sportier than the competition,
Yes I hope the update helps, as somebody who plans to never use the radio and only my own music I am a bit concerned.
I hope so but it is a bit lower on the priority list. It is unlikely to "save you money" in the long run, but if you are looking at it from an environmental standpoint of using less gasoline then it makes sense if you are going to load your Mazda6 up anyway.
Alex, when are tou going to review Mazda6 2016? Thankyou
Can you get an update on the infotainment system on 2014 models?
Great review. Where can I get a little Truffula Tree wearable like that?
I thought this was a deal breaker for me also until her said the bluetooth worked great! That means iPod touch and iPhone/Android will be fine. Plus the great thing about a touch screen interface is if Mazda listens it can all be fixed with a software update. It's between the Accord and Mazda6 for me, I'll be checking out the end of year sales.
I agree with you, I love everything about the car except for the infotainment system. It is ridiculously slow when it comes to loading music off a 32GB USB stick. Takes over 2 minutes every single time you start the car AND not to mention always starts from the very first song, not where you last left off. Mazda corporate has made no statement about any software updates. Been in contact with them since February (when I purchased mine).
My man went straight inside the trunk for the measurement
I would say that if you find your 2012 SE rough on poorly paved roads you'll find the 6 rougher. The Camry has gotten sportier over time but is still the softer sedan in this segment. If you want a more comfortable ride, something like a LaCrosse, Impala, or Malibu would be more compliant.
Great review. Have you done the Mazda cx5?
Thanks for going through the interface! I like that. It's important, but reviewers often neglect it.
I don't think Honda has any in their press fleet but I will make inquiries.
Are there any plans to do a follow-up review/comparison of the diesel version?
Also, I'd love to see a comparison of the Mazda 6 to the Kia Optima (most likely an article rather than a video); those are the two primary alternatives to the "Camcord" in my mind.
Great review (again!). Disagree with the looks part. IMO this is better looking than the Fusion. But it's obviously a matter of taste. The upcoming diesel should be really interesting. Please promise us you'll review that one as well!. Hope Mazda will be getting more traction in the US because they have produced great new cars (CX 5, this one and the new 3).
Alex, any word on when we can expect your review of the 2016 CX5? Thanks!
Will do.
I have this car. In general it is awesome! The design of black 6 that I have is even more attractive. And yea, the bluetooth really takes a considerable time. That really sucks so much. But I help it by turning off the bluetooth on my device and put it back on and that sometimes makes it in seconds. But that's the only thing I complain. As I said this car in general is AWESOME! :))
I don't think so although Mazda has not ruled it out specifically.
...Waiting for your 2017 Mazda6 review.....;--),,,,,,,,
Thanks so much for the reply. I've also heard that there are issues when you try to shuffle, and it always starts with the first song in the playlist no matter what, did you experience that?
2 questions for 2015 owners - i just got mine and i have 2 questions:
- is there a way to change units on trip info for current fuel consumption from MPG to l/100km?? i see this option on the display but i cannot find any way to change this setting
- is there a way to change ipod settings so that it plays the last song?? now, every time i start the car it plays the 1st song on my ipod (sorted by song).
That is a very sculpted and low looking body, so I was impressed with the rear head room. I like agility more than acceleration, so this would appear to be attractive since it is offered with a manual. Alex, this is the first time I've noticed your face without the sunglasses.
Hi,
I live in Belgium and here the base model is a 2.0l with 145 HP (Because we get taxed to death by our governement, for horsepower)
Just put 17Inchers on the car and you will lose the tire noise.
That the engin makes a noise when you floor it is great! Quite whe you wan't it to and howling when you want to give it the beans.
I'm no expert but i feel the noise that that the stanard two exhaust give is in three stages, no noise untill 3.500 Rpm, then the howling starts then when you go over 5.000 rpm it get's even louder, i like to hear my car!
Plus it looks great, of course when you steal the Aston Martin look and put in on your Ford it willl look good. But please Ford try designing one yourself. You should get sewed by Aston Martin for that nose.
When i get out of my car, i look back and that has never happend to me before!
So my advise is if you like a engaging driving experience with a great looking car, go get a Mazda 6.
Thanks for listening I'm out!
The dijleman
Shifts were firm and fairly quick, but not as fast as VW's DSG units.
That's a tricky question. Car buying has so many variables attached to it. I would first see what deals your bank/credit union has, that's a good place to start. Do as much pricing research as possible and be prepared to haggle for the best deal.
Which one is better to drive, the 6 or 3, now that you have reviewed both?
Btw, nice review!
I would love to see a review on the 2016 mazda 6 GT? Would you get the 2016 kia optima sx over the new mazda 6?
jwchoi721 if you're still looking check out red line reviews. The host gives very in depth reviews as well.
Which was quieter overall, the buick verano or this 2014 mazda 6?
I enjoy your reviews, but this one dispelled the idea you might break out in one of your grandfather's songs like Pretty Woman or Crying. Good to see you.
Alex
Thanks for the review. I am researching on new cars. I am considering mazda6 and Subaru legacy. This one seems to beat legacy in looks and acceleration. (esp without the CVT).
But I would like to know a 2014 mazda6 (or 2015) would do in snow/ice possibly with all season tires (too annoying to change to snow tires every winter) . Here in Chicago we get lots of that. The car would be for trips to weekend groceries, mall, very occasional long distance, etc - no racing. I got stuck in snow several times last year
trying to park/get moving from zero mph.
Also, I would like to know the difference between 2015 and 2014 models.
Thanks,
VR.
There was essentially no change for 2015 on the Mazda6. In general snow tires will have the biggest impact. A FWD car with snow tires will generally outperform an AWD vehicle with all-season tires. However if you don't want to have two sets of tires around then AWD may make some sense.
This car looks good
You can but the same delay happens if there are as many songs on the USB stick. We hear that Mazda is planning a software update to work on some of these issues.
There is no AWD option at this time and in my opinion it does not appear that the floor stamping was designed with AWD in mind.
I would like to see you review the Norway 2014 Mazda3 with the 2.5 l engine.
Considering the infotainment issues that you and so many others have commented on, would it be feasible to get an aftermarket stereo considering it's shape and size. I wonder though if the commander switch would still function correctly.
Also, I read that Mazda is already going to refresh the 6 for 2015, have you heard anything about this?
At the time we had the 6 the iELoop system wasn't available. Later this year the diesel will be out and that will be the most expensive model. I like the thought on a stroller, but as I don't have kids I don't have one around. I'll see what I can come up with. In the Android/iOS debate I'm on the iOS side so I don't have a Droid to plug in. Most auto companies claim iOS users use their phones as music devices and they don't see the same thing in Google-land. Are they right? I don't know.
The 6 is very good but like most sedans with a sexy roof line it's not as easy to get in and out of as something like a Honda Accord with the tall greenhouse and rear glass that's squarer.
I paid 23k for mine and that includes the extended warranty as well as the gap insurance
Alex: How comfortable is *rear* ingress and egress? Did your head bump against the frame? Thanks for your comment about the cabin noise. Mazdas have always been on the noisier side...
Also, on the topic of the delay for the iPhone to connect the car stereo, have you had a chance to test the 2014-15 CX 5? And if so, did it share the same delay the 6 has since they are using the same stereo units? Thanks.
There has been no change yet although Mazda is working on a fix (or so I am told)
Would it be a wise choice to get the '14 Mazda6 GT ($13,999) over the '15 Mazda6 Touring ($14,933)?
And I felt like a blind bat. I don't think I'll be doing another review without glasses since an important part of driving is being able to tell what lane you are in...
I was wondering which car do you recommend between the 6 and the kia optima. I recently totaled my brand new kia optima sx 2013 and now have to shop for a new car. I'm doing comparisons and see that the optima is faster due to the turbo however after driving the optima for a few days I realized the touch screen is annoying to operate while driving compared the the center control like the 6\bmw. Of course the Drive is more important to me. Any suggestions or comment helps.
Hi Alex, great review (as are all your reviews)! Now that the revised 2016 Mazda 6 is out, I'm hoping you get a chance to review the new iGrand Touring trim. From what I understand, it seems to address many of the issues noted by you in this review and by others in the comments below with an improved infotainment center and a Sport mode for those willing to sacrifice some MPG for performance, perhaps even the noise deadening. I specify the iGT model as it appears that that may be the only model that's had its styling updated with new front and rear fascias as well (and is the model I'm most interested in purchasing.)
How was the transmission and shifting? Was manual mode (paddle shifters or knob) responsive, or was there a delay?
The Mazda3 is more agile for sure and has better steering feel thanks to a new steering design. I would buy a loaded 3 over a mid-range 6.
Def just to small , 6’6
When are you going to review the all new subaru legacy?
Looks long! but beautiful!