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.
Get FREE Dealer Quotes
 2010 Mazda MAZDA6Browse Used Listings |  2009 Hyundai SonataBrowse Used Listings |  2009 Toyota CamryBrowse Used Listings |  2008 Nissan AltimaBrowse Used Listings |  2008 Nissan MaximaBrowse Used Listings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Quick Specs | ||||
|
The 2010 Mazda Mazda6 is the choice for driving enthusiasts who are also compelled to make a practical, family-friendly selection. |
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. |
The 2009 Toyota Camry Hybrid melds the automaker's proven, hybrid system into America's bread-and-butter sedan. What's not to like? |
The 2008 Nissan Altima is a little sportier, though not less sensible. |
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 | $18,620 | $28,630 |
| Gas Mileage | ||||
| 17 MPG City / 30 MPG Hwy | 19 MPG City / 32 MPG Hwy | 19 MPG City / 34 MPG Hwy | 19 MPG City / 33 MPG Hwy | 19 MPG City / 25 MPG Hwy |
| Engine | ||||
| Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas V6 |
| EPA Class | ||||
| Midsize | Large | Mid-Size | Midsize | Mid-Size |
| Style Name | ||||
| 4-Door Sedan Manual i SV | 4-Door Sedan I4 Manual GLS | 4-Door Sedan I4 Manual (SE) | 4-Door Sedan I4 Manual 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 |
| Passenger Capacity | ||||
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Passenger Doors | ||||
| 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 |
| Transmission | ||||
| Manual w/OD | Manual w/OD | Manual w/OD | Manual w/OD | Continously Variable |
| Detailed Spec Comparison | ||||
| 2010 Mazda MAZDA6 vs. 2009 Hyundai Sonata | 2010 Mazda MAZDA6 vs. 2009 Toyota Camry | 2010 Mazda MAZDA6 vs. 2008 Nissan Altima | 2010 Mazda MAZDA6 vs. 2008 Nissan Maxima | |
