
At this time, the Mazda6 is one of the most dated entries in this class, with nearly every other entry (except the Chrysler 200 and Dodge Avenger) having been redesigned more recently.
The Hyundai Sonata remains one of the most competitive entries in the segment, thanks to its roomy cabin, fashion-forward design, and fuel efficiency; but its numb steering remains a flaw.
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 been completely redesigned for 2013, with more of a focus on refinement, smoothness, and cabin appointments and less of an emphasis on handling--although it does boast an appealing design and almost luxury-car level of detailing inside and out.
Honda completely redesigned the Accord this year, too, and gave them more efficient powertrains and a more fun-to-drive character.
Even V-6 models now return 34 mpg on the highway.
The Toyota Camry was redesigned last year and given a new instrument panel and a somewhat crisper driving demeanor, but it doesn't look much different than the outgoing car, leaving the Mazda6 more visually interesting.
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Quick Specs | ||||
The 2013 Mazda6 is a little more enjoyable to drive than other mid-size sedans, and its roomy, comfortable interior is another advantage, but it's behind the curve in occupant safety and tech features. |
With a standout design; perky performance; great gas mileage; and exceptional value for the money, the 2013 Hyundai Sonata is one of the best buys among mid-size sedans. |
The 2013 Kia Optima adds generous dashes of style and sophistication to what's otherwise a sensible, frugal, and spacious mid-size sedan. |
Briskly updated in the right ways, the 2013 Nissan Altima sedan promises good looks and great gas mileage for those who don't mind a CVT. |
The 2013 Toyota Camry is no standout for design, but it's more than ever the sensible pick for those who value comfort, value, and frugality above all else. |
MSRP From | ||||
$20,725 | $20,895 | $21,350 | $21,760 | $22,235 |
Gas Mileage | ||||
18 MPG City / 30 MPG Hwy | 22 MPG City / 40 MPG Hwy | 22 MPG City / 40 MPG Hwy | 22 MPG City / 38 MPG Hwy | 21 MPG City / 39 MPG Hwy |
Engine | ||||
Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 |
EPA Class | ||||
Midsize | Large Cars | Midsize Cars | Midsize | Midsize |
Style Name | ||||
4-Door Sedan Manual i Sport | 4-Door Sedan 2.4L Automatic GLS *Ltd Avail* | 4-Door Sedan LX | 4-Door Sedan I4 2.5 | 4-Door Sedan I4 Automatic L (GS) |
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 | ||||
Sedan | Sedan | Sedan | Sedan | Sedan |
Transmission | ||||
Manual | Automatic w/Manual Shift | Automatic w/manual shift | Continuously Variable Ratio | Automatic w/Manual Shift |
Detailed Spec Comparison | ||||
2013 Mazda MAZDA6 vs. 2013 Hyundai Sonata | 2013 Mazda MAZDA6 vs. 2013 Kia Optima | 2013 Mazda MAZDA6 vs. 2013 Nissan Altima | 2013 Mazda MAZDA6 vs. 2013 Toyota Camry |