2020 Mazda6 Pros vs Cons

The midsize sedan will always be popular with families. Consumers who are looking at buying a new one in 2020 will want to take a look at the Mazda6. This vehicle manages to stand out from the pack with its strong engine options and sophisticated cabin. That said, every car has its flaws, and the Mazda6 is no exception. So how does it look when stacked up against other midsize sedans? What are the cons and do they outweigh the pros?

What's New for 2020?

Not many changes were made for the 2020 Mazda6. This is likely because major changes were made just two years ago. The top-of-the-line Signature trim level does get a few new touches. These includes new badging for these models, including a new trunk lid badge.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2020 Mazda6 – The Pros

1. Standard Driver Assistance Features

While more and more sedans may be offering driver assistance features, they typically are not standard on the entry-level trims. Not only does the 2020 Mazda6 have a suite of features, but it also includes many aids that are not generally seen until the top trims for other vehicles. Standard on all models is lane keeping assist, lane departure warning, high beam control, blind-spot monitoring with rear-cross traffic alert, and smart brake support with pedestrian detection. Plus, all models have Mazda radar cruise control featuring stop and go.

2. Sharp Exterior Styling

One of the biggest things that draws people to Mazda vehicles is the outer appearance. The 2020 Mazda6 is certainly nice to look at. Standard for all models are stylish yet useful features such as LED daytime running lights, auto-leveling LED headlights, and LED combination taillights. Also standard are rain-sensing windshield wipers and eye-catching dual exhaust outlets with chrome tips.

3. Fun to Drive

Another big appeal of owning a Mazda is the way they tend to drive. The new Mazda6 gives drivers amazing fluidity while also offering precise steering. Braking is responsive, making it easy to feel confident behind the wheel. When it comes to a family sedan, consumers will be hard-pressed to find a vehicle more fun to drive, especially around the same price point.

4. Comfortable and Convenient Cabin

The 2020 Mazda6 would be a great vehicle to take on a cross-country trip. All models give drivers dual-zone automatic climate control, a great feature for ending arguments over the temperature. The entry-level model has comfortable cloth-trimmed sport seats and leather on the steering wheel. Moving up the trim levels can get drivers leather upholstery as well as power-adjustment for the driver and front passenger seats.

5. Upscale Infotainment System

No matter which version of the 2020 Mazda6 drivers ultimately choose, they will find a sophisticated infotainment system. Standard for this vehicle is an 8-inch touchscreen and runs MAZDA CONNECT. Drivers get convenient voice commands as well as standard Bluetooth. Text message audio-delivery and reply is another handy feature that helps drivers keep their eyes on the road.

6. Available Turbocharged Engine

Drivers have the option of upgrading to a 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine for the new Mazda6. This engine, which is available on the Grand Touring, Grand Touring Reserve, and Signature trim levels, produces 250-horsepower as well as 310 lb-ft of torque. Drivers who want to go with the Sport or Touring trim levels get a non-turbocharged version of this engine that produces a very respectable 187-horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. Either way, there is a six-speed automatic transmission underneath the hood.

7. Sophisticated Signature Trim Level

Going with the top-of-the-line Signature trim of the 2020 Mazda6 means getting a lot of luxury features. It gives drivers heated and ventilated front seats. The driver's seat has eight-way power adjustment with lumbar support, while the front passenger has six-way power adjustment. The rear seats are heated as well. This trim level has Sen wood and suede inserts in the doors and dashboard. An 11-speaker BOSE sound system is standard for this trim level, as well as navigation. On the outside, there are heated and powered side mirrors with an auto-dimming feature and integrated turn signals.

8. Minimal Road Noise

A lot of effort was put into making the cabin of the 2020 Mazda6 as quiet as possible. This sedan uses sound-insulating glass and strategically placed acoustic insulation to achieve a peaceful, relaxing environment. Also contributing to the effect is the precisely-tuned suspension that minimizes the bumps and sounds from the road. The lack of wind and road noise makes it much easier to enjoy music or a conversation.

9. Available Adaptive Front Lighting System

This feature allows the headlights to pivot as drivers take corners. As a result, visibility is greatly improved at night. Drivers have the ability to spot potential hazards much sooner, making it easier to avoid incidents. Anything that helps drivers both see and be seen at night can only be a good thing. This feature is standard on the Grand Touring Reserve and Signature trim levels.

10. Exclusive G-Vectoring Control Plus

Although it does not seem very physically demanding, driving or even riding in a vehicle for long periods can be tiring. Mazda aims to reduce this problem with their exclusive G-vectoring control plus system. The power delivery by the vehicle is adjusted when the Mazda6 corners, which effectively redistributes the vehicle weight. Although drivers and their passengers may not notice it happening during the drive, they may be surprised by how they feel once they exit the vehicle.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2020 Mazda6 – The Cons

1. No Available Packages

Many vehicles offer advanced features for lower trim levels as part of a package, but that is not the case for the 2020 Mazda6. Drivers who want certain features, such as navigation, have to choose a trim that has that as part of its standard equipment. While this may be frustrating for some consumers, many will find that even the entry-level Sport has more than they need when it comes to tech, comfort, and safety features.

2. Rear Seats Difficult to Fold Down

Although the rear seats do have the 60/40 split feature, folding them down can be a challenge. This is because they have to be "released" from the trunk, rather than inside the vehicle. Having to walk back and forth may annoy some drivers a tad, but is really not a huge problem in the grand scheme of things.

3. Rear Seats Too Small for Some

No one would accuse the inside of the Mazda6 of being small, but taller passengers may not be comfortable in the backseat. This does not negatively impact its ability to be a great commuter or family vehicle, providing the family has younger children. Plus, the front of the vehicle offers a very competitive amount of space.

4. Predicted Reliability Rating is a Bit Low

J.D. Power rates the reliability of vehicles. They also make predictions for new vehicles. Currently, the 2020 Mazda6 has a rating of 2.5 out of 5. This is on the low side. However, Mazda does offer a very competitive warranty for this vehicle, which should help raise consumers' confidence in it.

5. No Diesel Option

While not having a diesel engine would not typically an issue for a sedan, Mazda had been hinting that one would be available for the 2020 Mazda6. So far, this has not become reality. A diesel midsize sedan would surely appeal to many. That said, most consumers do not expect this to be an option and therefore will not be disappointed that the Mazda6's has not yet happened.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

There are many good choices in the midsize sedan market. One that consumers may consider is the Honda Accord. This is a nice vehicle, with great interior space and good engine choices. That said, it is not nearly as exciting to drive as the 2020 Mazda6. This is a result of the very nimble handling offered by the Mazda. Plus, loading the Accord can be difficult as a result of its narrow trunk opening. The Toyota Camry is also a popular vehicle. Again, it cannot match the Mazda6 when it comes to driving personality. Plus, the cabin of the Camry is quite noisy, whereas the Mazda6's quite one is one of its strongest selling points. The trunk of the Camry is smaller, too. Buick offers consumers the Regal Sportback. This is a fun vehicle that offers drivers a V6. At the same time, the materials used for the interior are a bit lacking and the infotainment system can be frustrating.

Conclusion

The 2020 Mazda6 is going to be a great choice for any consumer looking for a sedan for a small family or just something to get them to and from work every day. It has two great engines and is a joy to drive. All five trim levels offer drivers the safety aids that are becoming more and more in demand. Although the rear seat situation leaves a little to be desired, its problems are minimal in the big picture. Going with the Mazda6 in 2020 is a decision few drivers will come to regret.