2011 Mazda MAZDA6 vs. Its Competition

Bengt Halvorson Senior Editor

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 and Kia Optima were completely redesigned for 2011; they're both somewhat larger than the models they replace and have much-improved powertrains and refinement.

The standard engines on both of these models get 35 mpg on the highway and make about 200 hp; of the two, the Optima steers and handles better, but it's not quite up to the agile feel of the Mazda6, overall.