2016 Mazda 6: A Detailed Review of Style, Safety, and Comfort

The 2016 Mazda 6 stands out in the crowded midsize sedan market with its sleek design, impressive fuel economy, and a suite of advanced safety features. It’s a car that doesn’t just get you from point A to point B; it does so with a touch of elegance and a focus on driver and passenger comfort. In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into the various aspects of the 2016 Mazda 6, exploring its exterior aesthetics, interior amenities, safety technologies, and overall driving experience.

2016 Mazda 6: A stylish midsize sedan — The 2016 Mazda 6 offers a compelling blend of style and practicality.

The 2016 Mazda 6 is undeniably a head-turner. Available in a range of vibrant exterior colors, it exudes a sense of sophistication and sportiness that’s rare in its class. Its design has earned accolades, including recognition from J.D. Power and Associates for having the “Highest Ranked Vehicle Appeal among Midsize Cars.” But the Mazda 6 is more than just a pretty face; it’s a vehicle built with substance and attention to detail.

Under the hood, the 2016 Mazda 6 boasts a capable engine that delivers a satisfying blend of power and efficiency. With 184 horsepower, it offers ample acceleration for everyday driving while achieving up to 40 MPG on the highway and 28 MPG in the city. This impressive fuel economy surpasses many of its competitors, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious drivers.

The Mazda 6 logo represents Mazda’s commitment to innovation and driving pleasure.

Exterior Design: Sleek and Stylish

2016 Mazda 6 Exterior: A blend of form and function — The exterior of the 2016 Mazda 6 is both aesthetically pleasing and aerodynamically efficient.

The exterior of the 2016 Mazda 6 is characterized by its flowing lines and athletic stance. It’s a design that manages to be both elegant and sporty, appealing to a wide range of tastes. The car’s sleek silhouette is enhanced by subtle details, such as the sculpted hood and the chrome accents that accentuate its lines.

For those who desire an extra touch of flair, a rear decklid spoiler is available, adding a sporty edge to the car’s overall appearance. But the exterior design of the Mazda 6 is not just about aesthetics; it also incorporates functional elements that enhance its performance and safety. These features include:

Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS): This system adjusts the headlights based on steering input, improving visibility around corners and enhancing safety during nighttime driving.
Power sliding-glass moonroof: The moonroof provides an open-air experience, allowing natural light to flood the cabin. The one-touch-open feature makes it easy to enjoy the open sky.
LED headlights with adaptive response: The LED headlights provide bright and energy-efficient illumination, while the adaptive response system adjusts the beam pattern to optimize visibility in various driving conditions.
Rain-sensing windshield wipers: These wipers automatically adjust their speed based on the intensity of the rain, ensuring optimal visibility in wet weather.
Heated side mirrors with auto-dimming driver’s side: The heated side mirrors prevent fogging and icing, while the auto-dimming feature on the driver’s side reduces glare from headlights at night.

Interior Comfort and Design: A Refined Experience

2016 Mazda 6 Interior: Comfortable and well-appointed — The interior of the 2016 Mazda 6 is designed with both comfort and style in mind.

Stepping inside the 2016 Mazda 6, you’re greeted by a well-designed and comfortable interior. The cabin is thoughtfully laid out, with high-quality materials and attention to detail evident throughout. The seats are supportive and provide ample comfort for long drives, and the overall ambiance is one of refinement and sophistication.

The interior design team deserves praise for their work on the Mazda 6. The cabin is not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional. The controls are easy to reach and operate, and the overall layout is intuitive and user-friendly. Little design touches, such as the smooth logo etching in the side door panels, add a touch of luxury and exclusivity.

2016 Mazda 6 Interior Details: High-quality materials and craftsmanship — The attention to detail in the interior of the 2016 Mazda 6 is truly impressive.

For drivers who value comfort and adjustability, the 2016 Mazda 6 offers an 8-way power driver’s seat with power adjustable lumbar support. This feature allows drivers of all sizes to find the perfect seating position, reducing fatigue and enhancing comfort on long journeys. The dual-zone automatic climate control with pollen filter ensures that both the driver and passengers can enjoy a comfortable temperature, regardless of the weather outside.

2016 Mazda 6 Infotainment System: User-friendly and feature-rich — The 2016 Mazda 6 features a modern infotainment system with a clear and responsive touch-screen display.

The 2016 Mazda 6 is equipped with a 7.0-inch full-color touch-screen display that serves as the hub for the car’s infotainment system. The display is clear and responsive, making it easy to navigate the various menus and features. The rear camera provides a clear view of the area behind the car, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces a breeze.

One of the standout features of the Mazda 6’s infotainment system is its SMS text message audio delivery and reply function. This feature allows drivers to receive and respond to text messages without taking their hands off the wheel or their eyes off the road, promoting safer driving habits. The available Bose surround sound system with 11 powerful speakers delivers an immersive and high-quality audio experience, perfect for enjoying your favorite music on the go.

2016 Mazda 6 Rear Seats: Spacious and comfortable for passengers — The rear seats of the 2016 Mazda 6 offer ample legroom and headroom for passengers.

The 2016 Mazda 6 offers plenty of space for passengers in the backseat, making it a great choice for families. Even with taller front-seat occupants, there’s ample legroom and headroom for rear-seat passengers to stretch out and relax. The spacious rear seats can comfortably accommodate growing children, backpacks, and other gear.

2016 Mazda 6 Trunk: Spacious and practical for cargo — The trunk of the 2016 Mazda 6 provides ample space for luggage, groceries, and other cargo.

The trunk of the 2016 Mazda 6 is surprisingly spacious for a midsize sedan. It offers plenty of room for luggage, sports equipment, groceries, and other cargo, making it a practical choice for road trips, shopping excursions, and everyday errands. The trunk’s wide opening and low liftover height make it easy to load and unload items.

Safety Features: Protecting You and Your Loved Ones

2016 Mazda 6 Safety: Advanced safety features for peace of mind — The 2016 Mazda 6 is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features to protect occupants.

Safety is a top priority for the 2016 Mazda 6. The car has received high marks in safety tests, including the highest Superior rating for front crash prevention from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including:

Antilock Brake System (ABS): Prevents the wheels from locking up during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control.
Advanced front air bags and front side-impact airbags: Provide cushioning and protection for the driver and front passenger in the event of a collision.
Side-impact air curtains: Protect the heads of occupants in both the front and rear seats in the event of a side impact.
Lane Departure Warning: Alerts the driver if the car begins to drift out of its lane, helping to prevent accidents caused by distracted driving.
Blind Spot Monitoring: Detects vehicles in the car’s blind spots and alerts the driver, making it safer to change lanes.
Rear Cross Traffic Alert: Warns the driver of approaching traffic when backing out of a parking space or driveway.

In addition to these common safety features, the 2016 Mazda 6 also offers a few features that are relatively new for midsize sedans, further enhancing its safety credentials.

The Smart City Brake Support system is particularly useful for city drivers and those who commute into the city regularly. When driving between 3 to 18 MPH, the system automatically applies the brakes if it detects that a collision with an obstruction ahead is unavoidable. This feature can help to prevent or mitigate low-speed collisions, reducing the risk of injury and damage.

With a starting price of $21,495, the 2016 Mazda 6 offers exceptional value for money. It’s a stylish, comfortable, and safe midsize sedan that’s perfect for families and individuals alike. Named as one of Car and Driver‘s 10 Best vehicles of 2015, the Mazda 6 is a car that’s sure to impress.

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Disclaimer: The vehicle in this review was provided for one week of test driving. All opinions and photos are my own. I only write about products, events, experiences, and services that I personally enjoy and believe you will enjoy too!