2020 Mazda6

Pros
Driving dynamics. In order to distinguish its vehicles from the myriad others of similar size, shape, and price, Mazda has been focusing on driving dynamics for the last decade or two. So if you want a Japanese car that hints at European sport sedans, Mazda is gunning for your monthly loan payments. The handling of the Mazda6 is very good, with good steering feedback, precise control, and little body lean. It’s particularly noticeable at higher speed in highway and highway-ish driving. It’s certainly sportier and more fun to drive than a Camry or Sonata.
Ride. The sophisticated suspension also shows itself off with a comfortable ride. Most road bumps are well absorbed, and the car doesn’t get unsettled easily.
Plenty of power. Our “Signature” trim Mazda6 ($36,620) came with a 227 hp 2.5 liter turbo-charged four cylinder engine. We found it more than adequate to move the car around, city and highway. Mileage was middling. We got about 24 mpg overall. The EPA says you can get 26.
Quiet. Mazda has done a good job with sound insulation, so the 6 is relatively quiet at highway speed, with little wind and tire noise to bother you. Around town, engine noise is audible, but not unpleasant.
Full safety suite. The Mazda6 comes with all of the safety features Car Talk strongly recommends, including automatic emergency braking and blind spot monitoring.

Cons
Doesn’t stand out enough. Unfortunately, the other cars in this category (mid sized sedans) are so good and so up to date that the Mazda6 suffers by comparison. It’s not that there’s anything bad about it, and, in fact, it’s suspension system is very good. It just hasn’t improved as much or as quickly as the Honda Accord, the Toyota Camry, or the Hyundai Sonata, which all have updated styling inside and out, and up to date amenities. The Mazda6 is in desperate need of a rethink and redesign if it’s going to draw potential buyers away from these other excellent cars.
Slow screen. The Mazda infotainment screen is also in need of an upgrade. It’s slow and not terribly intuitive. Rumor has it a redesign of the system is coming soon.
Cozy. The Mazda feels like it’s on the smaller side of the class, compared to the more newly redesigned competitors. Rear seat headroom is a bit tight for the stork-ish.