2010 Mazda MAZDA6 vs. Its Competition

Meta Rating 8.6 out of 10

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Our expert editors build comparisons like this one to make it easy for you to understand the small handful of cars you should compare to whatever car you are already looking at. You get general thoughts on each car you should consider plus an easy way to compare basic information for yourself.

Bengt Halvorson

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Bengt Halvorson is Deputy Editor of High Gear Media's portfolio of car sites, overseeing the production of reviews, evaluating vehicles firsthand... More

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Nov 3, 2009

In this group of vehicles, the Mazda6 arguably has the freshest appearance.

But those looking only at the top-of-the-line V-6 Mazda6 "s" Grand Touring should also consider the Nissan Maxima.

The Maxima has an aesthetically appealing package, with an especially well-sculpted exterior, but the driving experience is a bit disappointing with the CVT automatic—as it is with the Altima.

Mazda has a gem in its 3.7-liter V-6, which feels stronger than virtually any of its peers.

Overall, the Toyota Camry rides more softly.

It is the Buick of this group.

The Honda Accord and Nissan Altima are also quite fun to drive, but the Mazda feels the part, with a more cockpit-like interior.

The Hyundai Sonata was given a minor styling refresh for 2009, along with improved refinement, and it’s worth a look if you’re strictly seeking comfortable, reliable, or even luxurious transportation.

But like the Camry, the Sonata probably won’t raise your pulse.

2010 Mazda MAZDA6 Browse Used Listings	2009 Hyundai Sonata Browse Used Listings	2009 Toyota Camry Browse Used Listings	2008 Honda Accord Sedan Browse Used Listings	2008 Nissan Altima Browse Used Listings	2008 Nissan Maxima Browse Used Listings
Quick Specs
Meta Rating
8.6 The 2010 Mazda Mazda6 is the choice for driving enthusiasts who are also compelled to make a practical, family-friendly selection.	7.8 TheCarConnection.com still rates the Honda Accord as the family-sedan champion, but the 2009 Hyundai Sonata lands solidly in the upstart tier that includes the Mazda6, Ford Fusion and Chevrolet Malibu.	7.6 The 2009 Toyota Camry remains one of the best choices for those looking for a reliable and roomy—albeit plainly dressed—family sedan.	9 Whether you're looking for a comfy commuter in the $20,000 range or a luxurious, powerful $30,000 family sedan, the newly redesigned 2008 Honda Accord should be on your shortlist.	8.4 The 2008 Nissan Altima is a little sportier, though not less sensible.	7.8 The 2008 Nissan Maxima is a bit more aesthetically appealing than a top-of-the-line Altima or Accord, but it doesn’t perform any better.
MSRP From
$18,600	$18,700	$19,145	$20,360	$18,620	$28,630
Gas Mileage
17 MPG City / 30 MPG Hwy	19 MPG City / 32 MPG Hwy	19 MPG City / 31 MPG Hwy	19 MPG City / 31 MPG Hwy	19 MPG City / 33 MPG Hwy	19 MPG City / 25 MPG Hwy
Engine
Gas I4	Gas I4	Gas I4	Gas I4	Gas I4	Gas V6
EPA Class
Midsize	Large	Mid-Size	Large	Midsize	Mid-Size
Style Name
4-Door Sedan Man i SV	4-Door Sedan I4 Man GLS	4-Door Sedan I4 Man (Natl)	4-Door I4 Man LX	4-Door Sedan I4 Man 2.5	4-Door Sedan CVT 3.5 SE
Drivetrain
Front Wheel Drive	Front Wheel Drive	Front Wheel Drive	Front Wheel Drive	Front Wheel Drive	Front Wheel Drive
Passenger Capacity
5	5	5	5	5	5
Passenger Doors
N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Body Style
4 Door Sedan	4 Door Sedan	4 Door Sedan	4 Door Sedan	4 Door Sedan	4 Door Sedan
Transmission
Manual w/OD	Manual w/OD	Manual w/OD	Manual	Manual w/OD	Continously Variable