What is it?
2003 Mazda 6 Sport Wagon
What's special about it?
Engineered to compare with the best from Germany in terms of driving dynamics while exceeding the quietness and refinement of the best from Japan, the Mazda 6 represents the first full embodiment of Mazda's revitalized brand DNA. Previously, the company showed sedan and hatchback versions of this mainstream midsizer. Now, the Sport Wagon version has debuted, completing a lineup that will launch a three-pronged attack on world markets when they go on sale later this year.
Either a 2.3-liter, inline four-cylinder engine making 150 horsepower or a 3.0-liter, 219-horsepower V6, both driving the front wheels, will power the Sport Wagon. A five-speed manual transmission comes standard with a four-speed automatic optional. Europeans will get an all-wheel-drive version of the Sport Wagon shortly after it arrives in dealerships, equipped with an "Activematic" five-speed automanual transmission.
Key to providing maximum cargo space in the Sport Wagon is the 6's so-called "e-type" multilink rear suspension, which minimizes suspension intrusion into the cargo space and results in a low, flat load floor. A "karakuri" inspired rear seat design — a single touch on a handle in the luggage area causes the rear cushions to sink into the floor while the seatbacks fold forward to create a flat load floor — makes it easy to expand the cargo area. The rear seat can be raised just as easily as it is lowered.
Despite the fact that the Mazda 6 is smaller inside than a Nissan Altima or Toyota Camry, occupant comfort was a priority for designers and engineers. The front seats offer a wide range of adjustment, and a tilting and telescoping steering wheel is standard. Every Mazda 6 comes with dual-stage front airbags and can be equipped with up to six airbags and a new Crashable Pedal design. Dynamic Stability Control is also available.
Why should you care?
There are precious few affordable midsize station wagons and fewer still that are fun to drive. The most obvious competitor for the Mazda 6 Sport Wagon is the Volkswagen Passat, an aging yet still competent family car. We predict that Mazda will find success with the Sport Wagon, particularly in light of the recent resurgence in consumer interest in the segment. — Christian J. Wardlaw
2003 Mazda 6 Sport Wagon
What's special about it?
Engineered to compare with the best from Germany in terms of driving dynamics while exceeding the quietness and refinement of the best from Japan, the Mazda 6 represents the first full embodiment of Mazda's revitalized brand DNA. Previously, the company showed sedan and hatchback versions of this mainstream midsizer. Now, the Sport Wagon version has debuted, completing a lineup that will launch a three-pronged attack on world markets when they go on sale later this year.
Either a 2.3-liter, inline four-cylinder engine making 150 horsepower or a 3.0-liter, 219-horsepower V6, both driving the front wheels, will power the Sport Wagon. A five-speed manual transmission comes standard with a four-speed automatic optional. Europeans will get an all-wheel-drive version of the Sport Wagon shortly after it arrives in dealerships, equipped with an "Activematic" five-speed automanual transmission.
Key to providing maximum cargo space in the Sport Wagon is the 6's so-called "e-type" multilink rear suspension, which minimizes suspension intrusion into the cargo space and results in a low, flat load floor. A "karakuri" inspired rear seat design — a single touch on a handle in the luggage area causes the rear cushions to sink into the floor while the seatbacks fold forward to create a flat load floor — makes it easy to expand the cargo area. The rear seat can be raised just as easily as it is lowered.
Despite the fact that the Mazda 6 is smaller inside than a Nissan Altima or Toyota Camry, occupant comfort was a priority for designers and engineers. The front seats offer a wide range of adjustment, and a tilting and telescoping steering wheel is standard. Every Mazda 6 comes with dual-stage front airbags and can be equipped with up to six airbags and a new Crashable Pedal design. Dynamic Stability Control is also available.
Why should you care?
There are precious few affordable midsize station wagons and fewer still that are fun to drive. The most obvious competitor for the Mazda 6 Sport Wagon is the Volkswagen Passat, an aging yet still competent family car. We predict that Mazda will find success with the Sport Wagon, particularly in light of the recent resurgence in consumer interest in the segment. — Christian J. Wardlaw
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