2012 Mazda MAZDA6 vs. Its Competition
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The Mazda6 is now one of the more dated entries in a group of mid-size sedans that's recently seen some redesigned entries.
The Hyundai Sonata has surged to the head of the group, thanks to a roomy design and strong, fuel-efficient powertrains, but its numb steering is a weakness.
The Kia Optima has many of the Sonata's attributes, but slightly better steering and Euro-look styling that some might prefer.
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.
Another all-new entry, for 2012, is the Toyota Camry; while the Camry has been redesigned and given a new instrument panel and a somewhat crisper driving demeanor, it doesn't look much different than the outgoing car.
Meanwhile, the Honda Accord is also due for a redesign; in fuel-efficient four-cylinder form, it's quite a deal, with more of a mature, big-car look and feel.
 2012 Mazda MAZDA6Get FREE Price Quote |  2012 Honda Accord SedanGet FREE Price Quote |  2012 Hyundai SonataGet FREE Price Quote |  2012 Kia OptimaGet FREE Price Quote |  2012 Nissan AltimaGet FREE Price Quote |  2012 Toyota CamryGet FREE Price Quote |
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| Quick Specs | |||||
| Meta Rating | |||||
The 2012 Mazda6 is just as comfortable, practical, and refined as most other mid-size sedans, but it's a little more enjoyable to drive. | Though the 2012 Honda Accord now has one of the more dated four-door sedan designs--and Bluetooth connectivity remains hard to get--its comfortable interior and perky, refined performance hit the sweet spot for families. | After more than a decade on the market, the latest Hyundai Sonata's an overnight success--thanks to great gas mileage, grabby styling, and exceptional value for the dollar. | The basics don't have to be boring: the 2012 Kia Optima evades design and driving boredom with suave looks, good performance and great gas mileage and features. | The 2012 Nissan Altima isn't as roomy as the newest mid-offerings, but as a coupe or as a sedan, it's one of the best-looking and most sporty mid-sizers. | The redesigned 2012 Toyota Camry remains the most conservative-looking pick among mid-size sedans, but if you want comfort, value, and frugality above all else, it's probably just your style. |
| MSRP From | |||||
| $20,480 | $21,480 | $19,795 | $19,500 | $20,550 | $22,055 |
| Gas Mileage | |||||
| 18 MPG City / 31 MPG Hwy | 20 MPG City / 34 MPG Hwy | 22 MPG City / 39 MPG Hwy | 22 MPG City / 39 MPG Hwy | 18 MPG City / 32 MPG Hwy | 21 MPG City / 35 MPG Hwy |
| Engine | |||||
| Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 |
| EPA Class | |||||
| Midsize | Large | Large Cars | Midsize Cars | Midsize | Midsize Car |
| Style Name | |||||
| 4-Door Sedan Man i Sport | 4-Door I4 Man LX | 4-Door Sedan 2.4L Man GLS | 4-Door Sedan 2.4L Man LX | 4-Door Sedan I4 CVT 2.5 | 4-Door Sedan I4 Auto L (Natl) |
| 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 | Sedan | 4 Door Sedan | 4 Door Sedan |
| Transmission | |||||
| Manual w/OD | Manual | Manual | Manual | Continuously Variable Ratio | Automatic w/Manual Shift |
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