2019 Mazda Mazda6 Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

The 2019 Mazda6 stands out from the typical midsize family sedan. Sporty road handling and an upscale interior make the new Mazda6 a great choice. Top safety ratings give you another reason to choose this cool-looking sedan. It’s a great alternative to a more expensive model from Audi or BMW. Although all-wheel drive isn’t available, this issue shouldn’t deter most buyers.

What’s New for 2019?

Mazda opted not to update the new Mazda6. Just last year, the sedan received a styling refresh and a greater number of premium options. An all-new turbocharged engine was also introduced into the Mazda6 lineup.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2019 Mazda Mazda6 – The Pros

1. Versatile Base Engine

The overwhelming majority of Mazda6 buyers are expected to choose the base SkyActiv four-cylinder engine. It’s rated to generate 184 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque. This is enough power to ensure an entertaining punch when accelerating. You’ll also appreciate the engine’s fuel savings. According to the latest EPA ratings, drivers can plan on getting 26 mpg in city traffic and up to 35 mpg on the freeway. Luckily, you can fill the tank with regular unleaded octane.

2. Stronger Turbocharged Engine Available

Last year, Mazda introduced a new turbocharged four-cylinder engine for the Mazda6. It immediately transformed the Mazda6 into a more engaging car to drive. Output stands at a fulfilling 250 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque on premium fuel. Although you can save money by feeding the engine regular unleaded, production is reduced to 227 horsepower. When driving around on a day-to-day basis, the turbocharged Mazda6’s extra boost of performance will be greatly appreciated.

3. Excellent Transmissions

Unlike many of today’s other sedans, the 2019 Mazda6 continues to offer a manual gearbox on its base Sport trim. This should excite the drivers who prefer to row their own gears. All of the other trims come equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission, which proves to be just as impressive. Critics applaud the automatic transmission for its quick and accurate gear shifts. Even at low speeds, the transmission responds instantly. Activating the sport mode allows you to experience more fun.

4. Possibly the Best-Handling Car in the Class

Typically, family sedans are known for delivering everyday comfort. Handling is usually not a strong suit. If you’re seeking a sedan with athletic reflexes, the 2019 Mazda6 is destined to impress. Many car reviewers consider the Mazda6 to be the most nimble car in the segment. A balanced chassis helps promote very precise handling. You’ll also benefit from Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control Plus system, which aids agility by applying light brake pressure to the outside front wheel when cornering.

5. Sporty Yet Sophisticated Exterior Styling

There are plenty of drivers who’ll love this sedan’s upscale styling. While the 2019 Mazda6 is affordable, it looks like a car that costs more than $50,000. A finely detailed grille and subtle body lines help the Mazda6 to stand out. While even the base model looks sporty, available 19-inch alloy wheels give the upper trims an especially aggressive stance. Two premium paint colors are available for an extra cost: Soul Red Crystal Metallic and Snowflake White Pearl Mica.

6. High on Passenger Comfort

Not only is the 2019 Mazda6 a fun car for drivers, but it’s also great for families. The interior is designed to reward everyone with good legroom. Seat comfort is outstanding as well. When traveling a long distance, you’ll definitely appreciate the supportive back bolsters. Dual-zone automatic climate control is standard. If you desire more relaxation, step up to either the Mazda6 Grand Touring Reserve or the Mazda6 Signature. These trims come loaded with front-seat ventilation and heated rear seats.

7. Advanced Safety Features Available on Every Trim

By garnering a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, the 2019 Mazda6 proved it provides the necessary impact protection. It also offers a number of valuable safety innovations. Blind-spot monitoring with rear traffic detection comes standard throughout the lineup. This important driving aid will keep you aware of vehicles buried in the sedan’s blind spot. You also have access to Mazda’s i-Activsense package, which provides driver-assist technologies like automated emergency braking and lane-keep assist.

8. Radar Cruise Control with Stop and Go

For many drivers, encountering traffic congestion can be a major headache. Mazda’s Dynamic Radar Cruise Control will make your commute less stressful. It can be programmed to keep you at a set distance away from the next vehicle ahead. You’ll especially appreciate this adaptive cruise control system’s stop-and-go capabilities. As you approach slowing traffic, the system automatically activates your brakes. As soon as traffic starts to flow again, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control will accelerate the Mazda6.

9. Very Luxurious Signature Trim

Drivers who prioritize luxury should check out the 2019 Mazda6 Signature. This range-topping trim competes against sedans that have a far steeper price tag. It comes equipped with Nappa leather-trimmed sport seats and a black headliner. LED interior lighting enables you to create a more peaceful driving environment. Drivers will also enjoy the Mazda6 Signature’s digital gauge cluster. Some of the other niceties include a 360-degree parking camera, adaptive headlights, and dashboard trim inserts.

10. Active Driving Display

Mazda’s Active Driving Display is surely a feature worth getting. It makes driving the new Mazda6 more enjoyable. By projecting the gauge cluster’s information onto the lower windshield, the Active Driving Display keeps your eyes above the dash. You’ll be able to see things like speed, navigation directions, and safety alerts. Traffic Sign Recognition is integrated into the head-up display, which helps you to avoid overlooking important road signs.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2019 Mazda Mazda6 – The Cons

1. All-Wheel Drive Not Offered

Unfortunately for drivers living in areas that have harsh winters, all-wheel drive is not available for this sedan. Front-wheel drive comes equipped on every new Mazda6. While front-wheel drive typically performs well in light snow and rain, you’ll likely experience reduced traction in heavy snow. Folks who need more grip on slippery roads should check out rivals like the 2019 Nissan Altima and the 2019 Subaru Legacy. These midsize sedans offer an AWD system.

2. Doesn’t Deliver Class-Leading Fuel Economy

Most people will describe the 2019 Mazda6 as being good on gas. Nevertheless, it does not rank among the class leaders. For example, the 2019 Toyota Camry can return up to 41 mpg on the open road. Meanwhile, EPA estimates for the new Nissan Altima stand at 28 mpg in town and 39 mpg on the highway.

3. Rides a Bit Stiffer

For some drivers, the Mazda6’s ride will be a bit too stiff. A sports-calibrated suspension causes you to feel just a few more vibrations from the road surface. Models equipped with larger tires deliver an even firmer drive. While this issue may not bother most buyers, it will concern the folks who’re seeking a plush ride.

4. Not As Quick as Some Competitors

The available turbocharged engine does give the new Mazda6 a major boost in the performance department. However, it’s still not as quick as some rival family sedans. Both the 2019 Honda Accord and the 2019 Toyota Camry can sprint to 60 mph in less than six seconds. Expect the Mazda6 to be at least a half-second slower.

How It Stacks Up Against the Competition

One of the Mazda6’s primary competitors is the 2019 Toyota Camry. While the Camry has received great reviews from automotive journalists, it’s still not as entertaining to drive as the new 2019 Mazda6. When taking curves, you’ll notice the Mazda6’s sportier nature. Furthermore, you can’t get a manual transmission on the new Camry.

You’ll likely also be cross-shopping the new Mazda6 with the 2019 Honda Accord. Both of these sedans have a fun-to-drive character. However, the Mazda6’s handling is a bit more precise. A CVT transmission also somewhat hampers the performance of the Accord’s base engine. Although the Honda Accord may come standard with more safety features, testers have found the Mazda’s driver-assist technologies to perform better during real-world driving conditions.

Don’t forget about the 2019 Kia Optima, which has a very stylish look. However, it can’t match the driving excitement of the Mazda6. Safety technologies, like a 360-degree parking camera and a head-up driving display, are not offered on the new Optima.

Conclusion

The 2019 Mazda6 is a highly recommended family sedan. It’s stylish, a blast to drive, and remarkably secure. An available manual transmission also makes the Mazda6 more appealing to driving enthusiasts. While the base Sport trim is a superior value, expect the upper trims to reward you with an especially luxurious drive.