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The Mazda 6, Mazda's new mid-sized sedan, takes the place the 626. This is a car that will not be confused with a Honda Accord as it is not as quiet and gives a somewhat bumpy ride. Additionally, since Mazda is not as much a competitor as Honda or Toyota in the United States, it has to do more to appeal to new car shoppers. A typical car buyer in America is more likely to see a "Zoom Zoom" commercial than they are to see an actual Mazda 6 on the road.

The 6 is an obvious move dedicated to being a sportier alternative to the competition, for better and worse. For better, the dashboard is appealing with controls that have a platinum/titanium look to them and the gauges and switches have a red back-lighting. For worse, the air conditioning and stereo systems look similar so it may take a while to get used to that aspect. In addition, the switches to the seat warmer are a little out of place at the front of the armrest.

There are three versions of the new Mazda 6; a sedan, a wagon, and a five door hatchback with each of them seating five people. Within those three models there are two types, the "i" and the "s". The "i" has a 160 horsepower, 2.3 liter four cylinder engine, while the "s" is a little more powerful with a 220 horsepower, 3.0 liter V-6, which is the same engine used in several other vehicles. As nice as it sounds, these figures are less than those provided by the Altima and Accord in terms of torque.

The standard transmission is a five-speed manual, although an automatic is available with six cylinder engines. The four cylinder models have a four-speed automatic. The manual gears seem to be backwards from most others, meaning that a driver has to push forward to downshift rather than shifting forward to accelerate. Other standards are a telescoping steering wheel that tilts a deep bucket seat for the driver and power windows, locks, and mirrors.

All of the Mazda 6's have nicely styled 16-inch wheels or low profile P205/60HR tires, although there is the option of wider tired riding on 17-inch wheels. The later comes as part of a sports package which also includes a rear spoiler, a front air damn, rocker panel extension and fog lamps.

No one can say that the 2003 Mazda 6 isn't a nice car to own, especially for those looking for a sporty car. But the argument can be made that there are better cars out there for the price in terms of mileage, looks, and performance. At the end of the day it may all come down to a case of personal taste and whether or not the Mazda name appeals to them.

Learn more about this author, Kevin Bradley.
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