The Good: Handling is top notch
The Bad: Styling may be too loud for some
Price Range: P2,080,000
Our Rating: ****
Last Update: February 5, 2018
Last Update: February 5, 2018
Showing posts with label mazda 6. Show all posts
Showing posts with label mazda 6. Show all posts
Saturday, April 11, 2015
Car Profiles - Mazda 6 Wagon
Tuesday, March 10, 2015
Mazda 6 - Generation 2.2 (2010-2013)
MAZDA 6 (2010-2013)
A 2010 update gave the Mazda 6 various updates from the inside (additional amenities which are many to mention) to the outside (refreshed grille).
Mazda 6 - Generation 2.1 (2008-2010)
MAZDA 6 (2008-2010)
Redesigned for 2008, the second generation 6 gains more space and more importantly, power. Just like the previous one, it has one model and engine (no V6 engine available locally).
Sunday, March 1, 2015
Mazda 6 - Generation 1.2 (2005-2008)
MAZDA 6 (2005-2008)
An update in 2005 gave the 6 one big item, a 2.3 engine. Otherwise, the standard fare of some new exterior changes and other upgrades are there.
Mazda 6 - Generation 1.1 (2004-2005)
One of the first vehicles that were launched during Mazda's return in 2004, this version of this 6 was short-lived especially that this one had been available elsewhere since 2002 and it was updated the following year.
See the overview of this 6
See the Generation 1.2 model
See the latest model of the 6
Wednesday, August 13, 2014
Car Profiles - Mazda 6 Sedan
MAZDA 6 SEDAN
The Good: Handling is top notch
The Bad: Styling may be too loud for some
Price Range: P1,950,000-P2,150,000
Our Rating: ****
Last Update: February 5, 2018
Last Update: February 5, 2018
Sunday, August 25, 2013
Used Car Review - Mazda 6 (2008-2012)
While the new generation is under the radar, Myk Belmonte invites you to check out the model it preceded.
2008-2012 Mazda 6
History
The Philippine premium car market has two types of buyers. The first one are those who love to sit at the back for most and the second one are those who love to spend time behind the wheel. Chauffeur rides include the Camry and the Teana while driver involved vehicles are the Legacy and the 6, the latter car which we will be reviewing in this article.
Developed under the GH platform, the second generation 6 was first previewed in 2007 at the Frankfurt Auto Show before being made for sale next year (North America had this in 2009). Nothing but praises were given to the second generation 6, with the driving feel still the same despite the increase in size. The GJ 6 replaced this just recently, with all models being produced in Hiroshima, Japan.
Ford Group Philippines, who used to handle Mazda at that time, launched the GH Mazda 6 in early 2008. It was only available in just one trim, a 2.5 4 cylinder one. You can buy one until 2012, with the much anticipated GJ Mazda 6 replacing it this year.
Value and Costs
Sedans with 2.0 gasoline engines and above have usually low residuals, and the second generation 6 can be bought for less than a million pesos. Have a lookout for units purchased in October 2010 or later to get the remainder of the warranty.
You'll need more funds to keep this baby in great shape, especially that it has a bigger engine than the top of the line Mazda 3. Parts are mostly purchased in the casa but there are a number of specialist shops out there, so do your research so you can save more. When compared with its peers, they offer a similar cost of maintenance.
Exterior and Interior
More sharper than the model it replaced, the second generation 6 has sleek and sharp lines that can elicit stares (in a low profile fashion) and remains distinctive. A 2010 update had a revised grille, with the Mazda logo being the highlight. Before we leave this paragraph, the second generation 6 has 4,735mm in length, a width of 1,795mm, and a height of 1,440mm.
While the exterior drank growth pills, the inside is something of the same size. Placing three people at the back is very tight and headroom is something to be desired, no thanks to the sunroof. Definitely the materials used in the interior are of high quality, which is something (and should be) commendable.
Engine
Despite the single engine option for PHDM Mazda 6's, this is definitely no slouch since the LS-VE 2,488cc I4 that has 168hp at 6,000rpm and 226Nm at 4,400rpm has the oomph and you can hold the gears until redline. Never a dull moment will be experienced since some sports car genes were infused in the 6's growing pills.
Driving Impressions
A fear whenever redesigning a car is to retain the previous model's personality or not, and thankfully, the 6 still retains the driving prowess it is known for. It steers with confidence and goes with the flow gracefully, but there is a minimal amount of body roll due to the added weight. Braking whenever something goes wrong is excellent, despite the heft.
Verdict
The Mazda 6 is still a great choice when it comes to something premium with drivers involvement, but there are qualities that made me still go for the first generation 6. It may lack some space for the passengers, but those who usually carry people most of the time check other options first before committing to the 6.
2008-2012 Mazda 6
History
The Philippine premium car market has two types of buyers. The first one are those who love to sit at the back for most and the second one are those who love to spend time behind the wheel. Chauffeur rides include the Camry and the Teana while driver involved vehicles are the Legacy and the 6, the latter car which we will be reviewing in this article.
Developed under the GH platform, the second generation 6 was first previewed in 2007 at the Frankfurt Auto Show before being made for sale next year (North America had this in 2009). Nothing but praises were given to the second generation 6, with the driving feel still the same despite the increase in size. The GJ 6 replaced this just recently, with all models being produced in Hiroshima, Japan.
Ford Group Philippines, who used to handle Mazda at that time, launched the GH Mazda 6 in early 2008. It was only available in just one trim, a 2.5 4 cylinder one. You can buy one until 2012, with the much anticipated GJ Mazda 6 replacing it this year.
Value and Costs
Sedans with 2.0 gasoline engines and above have usually low residuals, and the second generation 6 can be bought for less than a million pesos. Have a lookout for units purchased in October 2010 or later to get the remainder of the warranty.
You'll need more funds to keep this baby in great shape, especially that it has a bigger engine than the top of the line Mazda 3. Parts are mostly purchased in the casa but there are a number of specialist shops out there, so do your research so you can save more. When compared with its peers, they offer a similar cost of maintenance.
Exterior and Interior
More sharper than the model it replaced, the second generation 6 has sleek and sharp lines that can elicit stares (in a low profile fashion) and remains distinctive. A 2010 update had a revised grille, with the Mazda logo being the highlight. Before we leave this paragraph, the second generation 6 has 4,735mm in length, a width of 1,795mm, and a height of 1,440mm.
While the exterior drank growth pills, the inside is something of the same size. Placing three people at the back is very tight and headroom is something to be desired, no thanks to the sunroof. Definitely the materials used in the interior are of high quality, which is something (and should be) commendable.
Engine
Despite the single engine option for PHDM Mazda 6's, this is definitely no slouch since the LS-VE 2,488cc I4 that has 168hp at 6,000rpm and 226Nm at 4,400rpm has the oomph and you can hold the gears until redline. Never a dull moment will be experienced since some sports car genes were infused in the 6's growing pills.
Driving Impressions
A fear whenever redesigning a car is to retain the previous model's personality or not, and thankfully, the 6 still retains the driving prowess it is known for. It steers with confidence and goes with the flow gracefully, but there is a minimal amount of body roll due to the added weight. Braking whenever something goes wrong is excellent, despite the heft.
Verdict
The Mazda 6 is still a great choice when it comes to something premium with drivers involvement, but there are qualities that made me still go for the first generation 6. It may lack some space for the passengers, but those who usually carry people most of the time check other options first before committing to the 6.
Sunday, March 31, 2013
Car Profiles - Mazda 6 (2008-2012)
The Good: A hoot to drive, lots of equipment
The Bad: Swoopy styling means limited headroom
The Say: More matured than the first generation 6.
Go For: 2.5L
Avoid: There is only one model
Price Range: P650,000-P1,050,000
Our Rating: ****
Related Review: Used Car Review - Mazda 6 (2008-2012)
Latest vehicle profile: Mazda 6
See the different versions of this vehicle:
2008-2010
2010-2013
Friday, January 4, 2013
Car Profiles - Mazda 6 (2004-2007)
The Good: Sports car driving excitement inside an executive sedan
The Bad: Not a great car for those who prefer to be seated at the back
The Say: Who says that executive sedans should be boring?
Go For: 2.3L
Avoid: 2.0L
Price Range: P420,000-P630,000
Our Rating: ****
Related Review: Wildcard Pick of the Month - Mazda 6 (2004-2007)
Latest vehicle profile: Mazda 6
See the different versions of this vehicle:
2004-2005
2005-2008
Friday, September 7, 2012
Wildcard Pick of the Month - Mazda 6 (2004-2007)
For this month's wildcard pick, Myk Belmonte will feature a sedan that would surely rock. It may have a premium price but this one is for the driver. Up and coming executives who wants an entry level sedan but the soul of a sports car is there, this is it.
2004-2007 Mazda 6
History
Once upon a time, executive sedans are definitely common with males with higher rank positions, nearing retirement age, having tons of money in the bank, and sports buldging bellies and having poor eyesight. We all know they can afford to pay a driver that can take them places and these sedans are usually passenger oriented - with numb steering and a lifeless ride, a tradeoff for a cushy ride. This leaves young people no choice but to buy executive sedans suited for their dads.
Mazda, with its sports car heritage, decided to infuse their sports car genes (prevalent with their RX-7 sports car) with the Mazda 626 (the predecessor) throughout of its selling life (except for the 1998-2002 model, with car magazine reviews dismissing it as bland and soft than the previous model). The 6 (or Atienza if you live in Japan) was introduced in 2002 which includes a sedan, hatchback, and wagon body configurations. In 2005, a MazdaSpeed variant of the 6 made way to Mazda dealers until 2007. The 2002-2007 Mazda 6 carried the GG platform, with several Ford sedans also utilizing this. Production continued until 2007, with the GH Mazda 6 replacing it in 2008.
The 6 (together with the 3 and Tribute) had their Philippine introduction with the brand's comeback in 2004. It was not like any other executive sedan sold locally, with the 6's emphasis on driving dynamics (the 2003-2007 Honda Accord nearly made the cut when it comes to driving feel) than passenger comfort. Together with the international market, selling time ended in 2007 and the GH Mazda 6 introduced in the following year.
Value and Costs
In the Philippine context, mid-size sedans (and nearly any sedan with two liter engines and above) do have poor resale values. With the Mazda 6 being a casualty of this crime, you would see 2004-2007 models flirting in the P500,000-P700,000 price range. This is a good choice if you prioritize driving than back seat riding for less.
Unlike the Mazda 3, parts may be available outside the casa but some components are exclusively available in the dealership parts section. Prepare spare cash for fuel expenses, and maintaining one - since taking care of this sedan costs more than the lowly priced M3. Common problems with the M6 involve road noise. It may be attributed to the standard tires or with the underchassis, but make it sure to check them before signing the deal.
Exterior and Interior
One thing the afflicts mid-size sedans are the increase in weight and bulk, the 6 gets rid of it due to the target market. If you get a magnifying glass, you'll notice some Mazda RX-8 (may it rest in peace) styling cues albeit stretched and blends well. You may confuse it for a hatchback (there exists a hatchback version internationally) since the rear windshield is heavily raked. To sum this paragraph, it says goodbye to bland edges and goes daring when it comes to designing the exterior.
Earlier models possess a dowdy looking interior, with gauges not enticing excitement when looked to and the strips of chrome and carbon fiber doesn't collaborate well with the black and silver plastic pieces. While an update in late 2005 had improved materials, possess leather trims, gauges that are not boring to stare at, and the addition of creature comforts such as an automatic climate control (previous ones utilize a manual one) and a 6-disc changer. A sunroof (very useless during the typhoon season) is standard on all year models. Room for occupants is excellent, even the ones who want to sit at the back would feel comfortable despite the presence of the sunroof. Visibility is generous since this is a driver-oriented car.
Engine
For Philippine market M6's, there are two 4-cylinder engine choices per period. One is a 1,998cc that has 131hp at 6,000rpm and 176Nm at 4,500rpm for 2004-2005 models while a 2,261cc motivates late 2005-2007 Mazda 6's and carries 164hp at 6,500rpm and 207Nm at 4,000rpm. The 2.0 engine does not fit the sporty demeanor of the 6 although not insufficient in power, expect to hear it wheeze in steep inclines, similar to someone who gets asthma attack. The 2.3 engine - added in late 2005 - finally does justice to the 6, with the injection of Sequential Valve-Timing and Variable Intake System and you may freak out with this combo - a racy engine noise and a 7,000rpm redline.
Driving Impressions
The Mazda 6's forte is the driving characteristics, which is very un-executive car like to tell the obvious truth. You can feel the balance from attacking corners to twist the steering wheel. Thanks to the lighter body, you won't feel the bulk while changing lanes. With the suspension combo of the double wishbone and multilink E-type, it ensures the car is still planted on the ground and providing a firm but tolerable ride.
Verdict
As they say, life begins at age 40. But, you can stay forever young by going against and defying your age by buying a second hand Mazda 6. With a balance between comfort and driver involvement, this car is a bargain, thanks to the power of depreciation. So, where can you find this combo if you want the appeal of an executive?
2004-2007 Mazda 6
History
Once upon a time, executive sedans are definitely common with males with higher rank positions, nearing retirement age, having tons of money in the bank, and sports buldging bellies and having poor eyesight. We all know they can afford to pay a driver that can take them places and these sedans are usually passenger oriented - with numb steering and a lifeless ride, a tradeoff for a cushy ride. This leaves young people no choice but to buy executive sedans suited for their dads.
Mazda, with its sports car heritage, decided to infuse their sports car genes (prevalent with their RX-7 sports car) with the Mazda 626 (the predecessor) throughout of its selling life (except for the 1998-2002 model, with car magazine reviews dismissing it as bland and soft than the previous model). The 6 (or Atienza if you live in Japan) was introduced in 2002 which includes a sedan, hatchback, and wagon body configurations. In 2005, a MazdaSpeed variant of the 6 made way to Mazda dealers until 2007. The 2002-2007 Mazda 6 carried the GG platform, with several Ford sedans also utilizing this. Production continued until 2007, with the GH Mazda 6 replacing it in 2008.
The 6 (together with the 3 and Tribute) had their Philippine introduction with the brand's comeback in 2004. It was not like any other executive sedan sold locally, with the 6's emphasis on driving dynamics (the 2003-2007 Honda Accord nearly made the cut when it comes to driving feel) than passenger comfort. Together with the international market, selling time ended in 2007 and the GH Mazda 6 introduced in the following year.
Value and Costs
In the Philippine context, mid-size sedans (and nearly any sedan with two liter engines and above) do have poor resale values. With the Mazda 6 being a casualty of this crime, you would see 2004-2007 models flirting in the P500,000-P700,000 price range. This is a good choice if you prioritize driving than back seat riding for less.
Unlike the Mazda 3, parts may be available outside the casa but some components are exclusively available in the dealership parts section. Prepare spare cash for fuel expenses, and maintaining one - since taking care of this sedan costs more than the lowly priced M3. Common problems with the M6 involve road noise. It may be attributed to the standard tires or with the underchassis, but make it sure to check them before signing the deal.
Exterior and Interior
One thing the afflicts mid-size sedans are the increase in weight and bulk, the 6 gets rid of it due to the target market. If you get a magnifying glass, you'll notice some Mazda RX-8 (may it rest in peace) styling cues albeit stretched and blends well. You may confuse it for a hatchback (there exists a hatchback version internationally) since the rear windshield is heavily raked. To sum this paragraph, it says goodbye to bland edges and goes daring when it comes to designing the exterior.
Earlier models possess a dowdy looking interior, with gauges not enticing excitement when looked to and the strips of chrome and carbon fiber doesn't collaborate well with the black and silver plastic pieces. While an update in late 2005 had improved materials, possess leather trims, gauges that are not boring to stare at, and the addition of creature comforts such as an automatic climate control (previous ones utilize a manual one) and a 6-disc changer. A sunroof (very useless during the typhoon season) is standard on all year models. Room for occupants is excellent, even the ones who want to sit at the back would feel comfortable despite the presence of the sunroof. Visibility is generous since this is a driver-oriented car.
Engine
For Philippine market M6's, there are two 4-cylinder engine choices per period. One is a 1,998cc that has 131hp at 6,000rpm and 176Nm at 4,500rpm for 2004-2005 models while a 2,261cc motivates late 2005-2007 Mazda 6's and carries 164hp at 6,500rpm and 207Nm at 4,000rpm. The 2.0 engine does not fit the sporty demeanor of the 6 although not insufficient in power, expect to hear it wheeze in steep inclines, similar to someone who gets asthma attack. The 2.3 engine - added in late 2005 - finally does justice to the 6, with the injection of Sequential Valve-Timing and Variable Intake System and you may freak out with this combo - a racy engine noise and a 7,000rpm redline.
Driving Impressions
The Mazda 6's forte is the driving characteristics, which is very un-executive car like to tell the obvious truth. You can feel the balance from attacking corners to twist the steering wheel. Thanks to the lighter body, you won't feel the bulk while changing lanes. With the suspension combo of the double wishbone and multilink E-type, it ensures the car is still planted on the ground and providing a firm but tolerable ride.
Verdict
As they say, life begins at age 40. But, you can stay forever young by going against and defying your age by buying a second hand Mazda 6. With a balance between comfort and driver involvement, this car is a bargain, thanks to the power of depreciation. So, where can you find this combo if you want the appeal of an executive?
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