I didn't notice about the tilt/telescoping wheel. Was it just on the V6? Maybe it was inadvertantly not mentioned on the I4. Hope so anyway. Just about every other midsize has that now so for them to leave it off the I4 on their new and improved model would be kind of stupid.
I think 170 horses is fine for an I4. Pretty much in line with others. I guess it would be nice to have more but if it hurt mpg....forget it.
I have to wonder, what the heck is "half leather seats"? I don't think it's the typical leather seating surfaces with vinyl on the sides and back, because that's regular leather seats.
Most certainly not. The Mazda6 2.5L Touring 6-speed manual is equivilant to the Honda Accord EX 5-speed manual.
The Accord gives you 20 more ponies, standard moon roof, heated mirrors at an MSRP of $23,060. The Mazda does not have a moon roof, you have to pay $3,500 and get numerous extras including heated mirrors, that you may not want, and the base MSRP is $23,650 w/o any extras. The only advantage is the 6-speed manual. The Mazda is priced high. Even if you could just get the power moon roof package, that would add $1,800 to the price, then you are $2,300 more then the Accord EX!!!
First of all, no prices are set in stone yet. You said so yourself.
Second, whoever pays sticker for any car, let alone a Mazda, is a beer short of a 6-pack anyway. Chances are that whatever price Mazda sets, after the initial rush, you'll be able to better negotiate a final price, probably better than at a Honda dealer.
Thirdly, this car is still a 2009. IIRC, Toyota just increased (or will be increasing) prices on their products, and who knows how prices will be with Toyota, Honda, Nissan, etc when the '09 MY actually starts.
So are we supposed to cheer and run out to the dealer when mazda says
"gotcha! we were just kidding about the ridiculous trim packages and add-on pricing schemes"
"Ahh yess...mazda...Your prices are good....FOR ME TO POOP ON"
Edit...after sending corp an email regarding their poor pricing, I just got this...
"I am pleased you took the time to bring your opinion to our attention. Consumer feedback is always very important to Mazda. Certainly, we want to offer exciting vehicles, and comments such as yours help us to achieve that goal. Rest assured I have documented your suggestion for our corporate record. These records are continuously being reviewed by our Product Planning Department in an effort to provide only the highest quality products to our customers."
They know they'll get a lot of buzz and quick sales when the new model hits the streets and take their max profit. Then they'll see how sales go and we may be back to the $3000-4000 off MSRP on the Mazda vs Accord maybe discounting around $2000 off MSRP. It's going to depend on just how popular it is. This may just change the ballgame for the Mazda6 and put in clearly in Accord/Camry price range.
I actually hope it doesn't as I am looking for another midsizded car this year and have been kind of waiting for the 2009 Mazda6. However, I bought my 07 M6 VE, auto I4 for $16500. I can get an 08 for $16000 right now. I was hoping to get into the new comparable M6 for no more than $18000-$18500. This may not be possible, even later on. Unless this new model is really fantastic I don't think I'm going to spend $20,000 when I can get a 09 Sonata for $16500 or a 08 M6 for $16000.
Honda has the Mazda beat whether you get the base model or the EX. Altima has more horsepower and a CVT transmission that makes better use of it, Passat has better performing engine and auto transmission but lacks the reliability. The 6 clearly only beats out Camry, Malibu and its own Ford and Mercury competition in the I4 (80% of the cars sold) department.
I assume you are basing your statements on the current M6 compared to other midsizers. Let's see how the new one stacks up as it is a major change in styling and a huge upgrade in powertrain.
Yes, these prices are not set in stone, however, they are all we have to go on right now. My only real gripe is the package offerings. I don't understand why they have chosen to offer both convenience and moon roof packages together, or none at all.
I still really think the i Touring 6-speed model would be my choice. I like the electro gauges, power seat, alloy wheels and push button start + smart key.
I like the electro gauges, power seat, alloy wheels and push button start + smart key.
I always thought the "smart key" was a gimmick until we bought the Altima last summer. After some exposure to it, it's really not a bad thing to have. It's convenient to keep the key in a purse/pocket, and pressing a small button on the door handle to unlock the doors, especially when your hands are full. It senses when the key is inside the car (when the ignition is off), and won't allow you to lock yourself out without it. It also will not allow the trunk to latch if you accidentally drop it in there.
There is a regular key hidden within the fob, which will allow you to open the door manually, as well as a slot that the entire fob slides into, under the steering wheel, to allow one to operate the car in case the fob dies.
Can I live without it? Absolutely. Much as I can live without the current keyless entry, but it's a nice feature to have.
A concern I have about these is if I was being dropped off somewhere but I have the key in my pocket. Then my wife goes to the mall and parks and is without the key. Has anything like that ever happened to you?
I do know that during the winter, I sometimes go out and start the car, and then get out, leaving the key in my pocket. The car does stay running, but a beep sounds, and a "no key" warning comes up on the trip computer.
I've never driven away without the key inside the car, and I'm not sure what would happen if I did. Hmmm... I may try that this weekend.
but a beep sounds, and a "no key" warning comes up on the trip computer.
Is it a loud beep and does it keep going off? I just have this vision of me being dropped off rushing to catch a plane and my wife stranded at Dunkin Donut about 40 miles from home.
The beep lasts a few seconds, and is sounded both inside and outside the car, so hearing it is really not a problem, even with the engine running.
If you think it still may be an issue, you can always make it a habit of dropping the fob in the center cupholder when someone is behind the wheel. Again, it won't allow you to be locked out...
I had thought of that as well. One of our cars has the keyless start/stop. Because you don't need to use the key, my wife ends up leaving her key in her purse all the time regardless of who's driving. That ensures that we never have a problem, so you might suggest this to your wife if you end up with the car.
Built several M6 models...and really the pricing isn't any better or any worse than the Altima and Camry which are pretty much the most expensive mainstream family sedans available today. In most trims is more expensive than the Accord or Malibu but it comes with some features that those cars don't have....like on Grand Tourings that have Xenons and push button start...features exclusive to the Mazda6 and the Altima. The 6 will also have class-exclusive memory seats and rain sensing wipers.
My trim of choice would probably be a Touring or Grand Touring 2.5L with six speed manual. I hope Mazda-like Honda-keeps manual transmission avialable readily on the next Mazda6.
I'm not crazy about the dash design or the appearance of the materials (they look kinda cheap in the pictures but may be better in person) but I can't wait to drive one.
Question...what exactly is "Welcome Mode" the push button start system? Blind spot monitoring???
Question...what exactly is "Welcome Mode" the push button start system? Blind spot monitoring???
The push button start system works with the smart key. You have a credit card sized key with sensor in it. It recognizes when you are in the car, and then the car is able to start by pushing the "push to start" button. Without the sensor key, it will not work.
Blind spot monitoring system uses radar in the rear of the car. when you are driving, and there is a car near either the right rear or left rear, the system alerts you by lighting an icon in that particular side mirror. For example, if there is a car to the rear of you, and is in the left lane of a highway, your left side view mirror will have a yellow icon illuminate that shows you a vehicle is in your "blind spot". If you happen to put your turn signal, and there is a vehicle in that blind spot, you will hear an alarm go off and that light would illuminate again.
As for the "welcome mode", I have no idea what that is.
This is what I was able to find on the European version of the Mazda6 on the welcome mode feature. I presume it will be the same for the US version.
"An advanced welcome mode turns on the panel lights in order of precedence, from lower to upper, giving the driver the impression that the car is waking up and getting ready to go."
The Bose Audio system will be a 333 watt system with 10 speakers and surround sound.
There will be auto dimming side view mirrors on all GT trims.
3.7L V6 has 269lb tq
The 2.5L PZEV engine will be 168hp 166 lb tq, not 170hp and 167tq.
High mount double wishbone from susp. and e-type multi link in the rear.
Mazda claims that they have improved, yes, improved, Mazda6s' handling over the outgoing model. That's great news.
It also boasts 16.6 cu. ft. of trunk space, over 2 cu. ft. more trunk space then Accord and Camry. I have a feeling that our new 6 got quite a bit bigger. However, it apparently handles better. That's an amazing feat.
Mazda claims that they have improved, yes, improved, Mazda6s' handling over the outgoing model. That's great news
I guess that depends on whether one likes to jump on corners or cruise mostly. But I suspect it may be a little more Honda'ish in handling which is not a bad thing IMO.
You're right. That much trunk space is a good indicator of size expansion unless they took out the back seat.
Is the autodimming side "mirrors" you're referring to the side mirrors or the rear view mirror. I never heard of self-dimming side mirrors but I guess it would be ok.
Yeah, it is way bigger. When I had the front seat the whole way back reclined to fit me I went and sat in the back and my knee barely touched the front seat. I am 6' 1" and in the current model performing the same test makes it very hard to get in the back seat and it is not comfortable.
But I drive and I already gave my guests the courtesy of 4 doors. That's all they get the way I see it.
Understood. I really like my Mazda6 but if it handled a little less like a sports car I wouldn't mind. I didn't buy it just for the handling. I liked the total package, looks, included equipment and price. The steering is a little quick sometimes for my general type of driving. I am probably not within the optimal target group in that respect.
My point was that when Mazda refers to better handling....what do they mean by better? If it means even quicker steering and harsher ride I might not be as interested. I'll have to wait and see because I really like the looks of the redesign and what I have read so far about the powertrain and equipment packages. Price could possibly be an issue but that hasn't been firmed up yet from what I've read here.
How about the the auto dimming side mirrors you mentioned?? Is it the side mirrors or rear view mirror that auto dimming??
Thanks. Never heard of side mirrors that auto dim and can't recall a problem with glare from the side mirrors of any car I've owned but obviously it must be an issue for a lot of people or they wouldn't offer the option.
Truck lights are usually what causes glare on my side mirrors, but I have to say, auto dimming is for guys who don't care about spotting a cop coming up behind them at night. Hardly the choice of the sort wanting a good performing car.
That's something that I did not know. Thanks. My wife has an Infiniti with an auto dimming rear view mirror. I'll have to check and see if the side mirrors dim as well. That's kind of cool actually now that think about it.
The new Mazda6 looks sweet. I used to own a 2005 Mazda6 i sport edition. It was awesome all around. The only problem spots were noise, need smoother shifting and more gears. From what I have read, it looks like the 2009 has been perfected. I'll probably buy the 2011 or 2012 model. ZOOM ZOOM!
Are these pictures of the NA 09 Mazda6? I thought the exhaust pipes on the NA version were rectangular and built into the bumper. The pics of this blue one show the dual round pipes underneath.
Yes, they are of the NA Mazda6. Notice the tail lights? Also, only the V6 has the exhaust outlets built into the bumper. The I4 does not. It is a single exhaust with two tips.
Oh, thanks. I'd only seen the pictures with the rectangular tailpipes and thought they were really sharp. Didn't realize the I4 was different. Too bad as I would be looking at the I4 exclusively.
Based on those specs, my 2007 i sport value seems to be equipped nearly as well as the new i touring version.
Looks like it is a significant size increase after-all, added 7.6 inches to length, 2.3 to width, and 1.2 inches to height. It goes from barely making it into the midsize class by EPA definition (based on volume) to approaching the "large" category. Also added weight, unlike the version for the rest of the world that lost a few pounds.
There had seemed to be conflicting information with some sources reporting this sort of size increase and others that they add only a couple inches to length. Perhaps that confusion was becasue of the differences between the US version and the one for the rest of the world?
I am surprised at the amount of dissing of the current version in the edmunds review, considering it was their "editors most wanted sedan under $25K" in 2007.
It is good that they were able to increase mpg rating, for the 4 cyl despite the increased weight and power.
Some other first drives have also been posted on Car and Driver and MotorTrend.
Positive reviews so far in all first drives, although almost all first drives tend to be positive advertisement-like articles these days.
All reviews note that the new 6 is much more refined while retaining or improving excellent steering feel. The new car is heavier unlike its Euro counterpart though, but it compares favorably with the Camcords. I would guess the car will do well in the inevitable comparos and hope Mazda reaches its sales goals of 100k per year.
I was initially very excited for this vehicle and it topped my list for a next car. However, I can't help but feel that I'm no longer interested in the midsize sedan market. Not really related to this thread, but Honda recently announced the addition of hybrid Fit, and a small hybrid hatchback, and they greenlit the hybrid CRZ. In the current climate, those types of vehicles are what is drawing my attention. I really wish Mazda would release something along those lines. Even a hatchback hybrid 6, despite its size, would perk my interest again.
Comments
I think 170 horses is fine for an I4. Pretty much in line with others. I guess it would be nice to have more but if it hurt mpg....forget it.
Mazda6 2.5L Touring AT $23550
Mazda6 3.7L Touring AT $26050
Convenience Package:Dual Zone A/C, Welcome mode, Xenon head lights, half leather seats, heated mirrors, Bluetooth, ground illumination, blind spot monitor system, rain sensing windshield wipers. $1,700
Power moon roof Package:Bose Audio System, 6CD changer, moon roof w/ global closure feature and SIRIUS radio. $1,800
the car I would like is a Mazda6 2.5 Touring w/ 6-speed manual with the aforementioned packages. A disgusting MSRP of $26,250
Mazda's are a good value. Mazda3 >> Civic, Corolla, however similar price. CX7 is closest to RDX, X3 & EX, but much cheaper.
Honestly, Acura needs to watch out for Mazda. They're proving performance doesn't have to equal luxury (and the price associated with it).
MSRP on 2008 i GT (AT) - $24,890 (with moonroof INCLUDED)
MSRP on 2009 i4 GT (MT) - $25,750 (add 1800 for moonroof) = $27,550
SERIOUSLY??? An extra $2,700 (actually it's probably more like 3,500 since the 08 is MT)? for a slightly bigger engine and new design?
Come on, mazda...
And no leather on the Touring model?
Ouch
Most certainly not. The Mazda6 2.5L Touring 6-speed manual is equivilant to the Honda Accord EX 5-speed manual.
The Accord gives you 20 more ponies, standard moon roof, heated mirrors at an MSRP of $23,060. The Mazda does not have a moon roof, you have to pay $3,500 and get numerous extras including heated mirrors, that you may not want, and the base MSRP is $23,650 w/o any extras. The only advantage is the 6-speed manual. The Mazda is priced high. Even if you could just get the power moon roof package, that would add $1,800 to the price, then you are $2,300 more then the Accord EX!!!
Second, whoever pays sticker for any car, let alone a Mazda, is a beer short of a 6-pack anyway. Chances are that whatever price Mazda sets, after the initial rush, you'll be able to better negotiate a final price, probably better than at a Honda dealer.
Thirdly, this car is still a 2009. IIRC, Toyota just increased (or will be increasing) prices on their products, and who knows how prices will be with Toyota, Honda, Nissan, etc when the '09 MY actually starts.
Too many variables...
"gotcha! we were just kidding about the ridiculous trim packages and add-on pricing schemes"
"Ahh yess...mazda...Your prices are good....FOR ME TO POOP ON"
Edit...after sending corp an email regarding their poor pricing, I just got this...
"I am pleased you took the time to bring your opinion to our attention. Consumer feedback is always very important to Mazda. Certainly, we want to offer exciting vehicles, and comments such as yours help us to achieve that goal.
Rest assured I have documented your suggestion for our corporate record. These records are continuously being reviewed by our Product Planning Department in an effort to provide only the highest quality products to our customers."
I would have but it was a "one time access" associated with my email address. I can't even get back into the site....I tried.
I actually hope it doesn't as I am looking for another midsizded car this year and have been kind of waiting for the 2009 Mazda6. However, I bought my 07 M6 VE, auto I4 for $16500. I can get an 08 for $16000 right now. I was hoping to get into the new comparable M6 for no more than $18000-$18500. This may not be possible, even later on. Unless this new model is really fantastic I don't think I'm going to spend $20,000 when I can get a 09 Sonata for $16500 or a 08 M6 for $16000.
I still really think the i Touring 6-speed model would be my choice. I like the electro gauges, power seat, alloy wheels and push button start + smart key.
I always thought the "smart key" was a gimmick until we bought the Altima last summer. After some exposure to it, it's really not a bad thing to have. It's convenient to keep the key in a purse/pocket, and pressing a small button on the door handle to unlock the doors, especially when your hands are full. It senses when the key is inside the car (when the ignition is off), and won't allow you to lock yourself out without it. It also will not allow the trunk to latch if you accidentally drop it in there.
There is a regular key hidden within the fob, which will allow you to open the door manually, as well as a slot that the entire fob slides into, under the steering wheel, to allow one to operate the car in case the fob dies.
Can I live without it? Absolutely. Much as I can live without the current keyless entry, but it's a nice feature to have.
I do know that during the winter, I sometimes go out and start the car, and then get out, leaving the key in my pocket. The car does stay running, but a beep sounds, and a "no key" warning comes up on the trip computer.
I've never driven away without the key inside the car, and I'm not sure what would happen if I did. Hmmm... I may try that this weekend.
Is it a loud beep and does it keep going off? I just have this vision of me being dropped off rushing to catch a plane and my wife stranded at Dunkin Donut about 40 miles from home.
If you think it still may be an issue, you can always make it a habit of dropping the fob in the center cupholder when someone is behind the wheel. Again, it won't allow you to be locked out...
My trim of choice would probably be a Touring or Grand Touring 2.5L with six speed manual. I hope Mazda-like Honda-keeps manual transmission avialable readily on the next Mazda6.
I'm not crazy about the dash design or the appearance of the materials (they look kinda cheap in the pictures but may be better in person) but I can't wait to drive one.
Question...what exactly is "Welcome Mode" the push button start system? Blind spot monitoring???
Give me one in Black Cherry and I'm good.
The push button start system works with the smart key. You have a credit card sized key with sensor in it. It recognizes when you are in the car, and then the car is able to start by pushing the "push to start" button. Without the sensor key, it will not work.
Blind spot monitoring system uses radar in the rear of the car. when you are driving, and there is a car near either the right rear or left rear, the system alerts you by lighting an icon in that particular side mirror. For example, if there is a car to the rear of you, and is in the left lane of a highway, your left side view mirror will have a yellow icon illuminate that shows you a vehicle is in your "blind spot". If you happen to put your turn signal, and there is a vehicle in that blind spot, you will hear an alarm go off and that light would illuminate again.
As for the "welcome mode", I have no idea what that is.
This is what I was able to find on the European version of the Mazda6 on the welcome mode feature. I presume it will be the same for the US version.
"An advanced welcome mode turns on the panel lights in order of precedence, from lower to upper, giving the driver the impression that the car is waking up and getting ready to go."
Here is some more Mazda6 info for ya....
The Bose Audio system will be a 333 watt system with 10 speakers and surround sound.
There will be auto dimming side view mirrors on all GT trims.
3.7L V6 has 269lb tq
The 2.5L PZEV engine will be 168hp 166 lb tq, not 170hp and 167tq.
High mount double wishbone from susp. and e-type multi link in the rear.
Mazda claims that they have improved, yes, improved, Mazda6s' handling over the outgoing model. That's great news.
It also boasts 16.6 cu. ft. of trunk space, over 2 cu. ft. more trunk space then Accord and Camry. I have a feeling that our new 6 got quite a bit bigger. However, it apparently handles better. That's an amazing feat.
What is the fuel economy for the new 6?
I guess that depends on whether one likes to jump on corners or cruise mostly. But I suspect it may be a little more Honda'ish in handling which is not a bad thing IMO.
You're right. That much trunk space is a good indicator of size expansion unless they took out the back seat.
Is the autodimming side "mirrors" you're referring to the side mirrors or the rear view mirror. I never heard of self-dimming side mirrors but I guess it would be ok.
But I drive and I already gave my guests the courtesy of 4 doors. That's all they get the way I see it.
Not from what Mazda is saying. They are saying that it will handle better then the out going model.
My point was that when Mazda refers to better handling....what do they mean by better? If it means even quicker steering and harsher ride I might not be as interested. I'll have to wait and see because I really like the looks of the redesign and what I have read so far about the powertrain and equipment packages. Price could possibly be an issue but that hasn't been firmed up yet from what I've read here.
How about the the auto dimming side mirrors you mentioned?? Is it the side mirrors or rear view mirror that auto dimming??
http://jalopnik.com/392521/2009-mazda6-spotted-in-the-wild
Today we ordered our first allocation of Mazda6's. We figure to have these on our lot by August-September. Can't wait!
Edmunds.com 2009 Mazda6 first drive
2009 Mazda6 specs
Looks like it is a significant size increase after-all, added 7.6 inches to length, 2.3 to width, and 1.2 inches to height. It goes from barely making it into the midsize class by EPA definition (based on volume) to approaching the "large" category. Also added weight, unlike the version for the rest of the world that lost a few pounds.
There had seemed to be conflicting information with some sources reporting this sort of size increase and others that they add only a couple inches to length. Perhaps that confusion was becasue of the differences between the US version and the one for the rest of the world?
I am surprised at the amount of dissing of the current version in the edmunds review, considering it was their "editors most wanted sedan under $25K" in 2007.
It is good that they were able to increase mpg rating, for the 4 cyl despite the increased weight and power.
Positive reviews so far in all first drives, although almost all first drives tend to be positive advertisement-like articles these days.
All reviews note that the new 6 is much more refined while retaining or improving excellent steering feel. The new car is heavier unlike its Euro counterpart though, but it compares favorably with the Camcords.
I would guess the car will do well in the inevitable comparos and hope Mazda reaches its sales goals of 100k per year.
I was initially very excited for this vehicle and it topped my list for a next car. However, I can't help but feel that I'm no longer interested in the midsize sedan market. Not really related to this thread, but Honda recently announced the addition of hybrid Fit, and a small hybrid hatchback, and they greenlit the hybrid CRZ. In the current climate, those types of vehicles are what is drawing my attention. I really wish Mazda would release something along those lines. Even a hatchback hybrid 6, despite its size, would perk my interest again.