CD Article: 2009 Mazda6 GS-I4

[CD_Editor]

Test Drive:


Five-speed automatic transmission: Bigger and roomier than the previous model, the redesigned 2009 Mazda6 sedan has a more powerful standard four-cylinder engine and better fuel economy, a quieter cabin, and a bigger trunk, reports Contributing Editor, Chris Chase.
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[Spheric]

Mazda Canada's Greg Young said that while a hatchback version of the new car likely would have sold well here, the U.S. market isn't as receptive to hatches, so at least for now, the North American Mazda6 will be sold as a sedan only.

Well at least the door isn't completely shut to a hatchback re-appearance. Given the gradual shift from SUVs to CUVs and smaller vehicles, I would have thought that the stars would be in alignment for more space utility vehicles like mid-sized hatchbacks. 

[stickshift]

That's what I thought too. I think Mazda Canada would really like to sell a 6 hatch here again, but it's all about volume, apparently; if the U.S. doesn't want it, then we can't have it either.

[Blueprint]

I've seen a few so far, and I still think the gen-1 was more striking.  The original Mz6 was like a Japanese Alfa-Romeo, stylish, sporty and sensual.  The gen-2 is a Japanese version of the last-gen Intrepid.  Not ugly, far from it, but not that pretty, either.

The Mazda 6 that the rest of the World gets is gorgeous