2014 Mazda6 (i Touring) Edward Loh

摘要

We're doing something a bit different with our long-term loan of the Mazda6. Mazda North America Operations agreed to give us a two-fer for the year: Six months in mid-grade Mazda6i Touring, equipped with a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder and six-speed manual trans. After six months, we'll swap into the Mazda6 Grand Touring, with the same engine, a six-speed automatic, and loads more kit. Our 6i Touring rang up at $24,540, of which $300 was the gorgeous Soul Red paint job. Given the level of standard kit, it feels like a pretty fantastic deal. Sharp-looking 19-inch alloy wheels, remote keyless entry, push-button start, six-way power adjustable driver's seat, and dual zone climate control are a few of the features I noted when I first sat down. There is even a full color 5.8-inch touchscreen display with a BMW iDrive-ish infotainment system, with Bluetooth connectivity, HD radio, Pandora, and nav. Oh, wait, pressing either of the two nav buttons doesn't actually do anything, as navigation isn't available on manual transmission Touring models, but is available in the $2000 technology package if you buy the automatic.