Now in its third generation, the Mazda6 celebrates its 15th Anniversary – over the years, going a step above expectation with each update. While the five-passenger sedan has seen some changes throughout its decade and a half, the Mazda6 has remained true to its mission of serving families who desire a midsize vehicle without compromise. See how the Mazda6 has charted its path over the years.
The History of the Mazda6
In 1979, the original Mazda 626 entered the market in coupe and sedan format, sporting the only available engine - a 2.0L SOHC that put out 80 hp. Mazda offered the option to pair the 2.0L with either a 5-speed manual or 3-speed automatic transmission. The public applauded its arrival and the Mazda's sales rocketed. The 626 saw very few changes through 1980, then received a facelift in 1981 with a new grille that stretched from headlight to headlight.
Over the next few years, the Mazda 626 would see some updates in styling and performance, as well as the addition of safety and security features including standard passenger-side airbags in 1994. More significant updates would come in 2000, then the Mazda 626 nameplate would be put to rest in 2002.
Since its arrival in 2003, the Mazda6 namplate has been landing in the spotlight. Immediately upon its release, Car and Driver named the Mazda6 to its 10Best list and since then has earned several additional 10Best honors, as well as dozens of awards and comparison wins.
Amongst the numerous accolades earned by the Mazda6 are:
- IIHS Top Safety Pick+
- Kelley Blue Book 5-Year Cost to Own Awards
- Wards 10 Best Interiors
- U.S. News and World Report Best Car for Families
- Popular Mechanics Automotive Excellence Award
- Edmunds.com Top-Rated Vehicle
- Autobytel Sedan of the Year
- Detroit News Car of the Year
In 2015, the Mazda6 was given subtle refinements including bold exterior lines that was inspired after adopting KODO—Soul of Motion design and lightweight, efficient SKYACTIV® technology in its third generation.
The 2016 Mazda6 brought more changes for the midsize sedan, including a completely redesigned interior that offered a clean and modern design that featured the latest MAZDA CONNECT™ infotainment interface and segment-exclusive Active Driving Display head-up display technologies.
With it's fresh redesign, the 2016 Mazda6 won the Wards 10 Best Interiors award. Additional key updates for the 2016 Mazda6 included a redesigned grille, headlights and tail lights, as well as available full-LED auto-leveling headlamps.
Now in its 3rd generation, the 2017 Mazda6 celebrates its 15th Anniversary with premium touches that include available luxuries like available Nappa leather seating surfaces and rear USB charging ports. Along with its luxurious interior, the Mazda6 offers a new G-Vectoring Control system promises even greater agility that provides superb driving dynamics.
While charting its path, the Mazda6 has continued to remain a top pick for those looking for a family vehicle, but refuse to give up on a more dynamic, responsive and—most of all—more enjoyable drive.
After 15 years, the Mazda6 is still setting the benchmark for its segment and for the Mazda brand. No matter which generation you review, the Mazda6 has remained true to its mission – serving families who want a midsize car without compromise.
At Ramsey Mazda, we don't feel you should compromise between good service, selection and price. Like the Mazda6, when you come to Ramsey Mazda – you can have it all!!
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