The Mazda6: Redundantly Responsive

We really hate being stereotyped as a broken record during conversations, but sometimes it helps to become one to stress a solid fact. If the Mazda6 were the topic, I’d love being one. A broken record, that is.

The day I and other motoring scribes probed the Mazda6 in scenic Tagaytay Highlands was a perfect example of an opportunity for me to act like a broken record, or a deeply-scratched compact disc in 21st-century speak. Much has been said of its responsive handling, especially on twisty roads, where every minute turn of the steering wheel translates to that sharp, tucked-in handling characteristic. A twisty road affair reveals the Mazda6’s unique and sharp handling and braking characteristics, while being svelte on normal road conditions. The Mazda6 is a perfect fusion of both European and Asian virtues. Just how did Mazda achieve that?

By reeling-in proven suspension technologies such as double-wishbones up front and a patented "E-link" rear suspension, the Mazda6 is destined to possess great driving dynamics, alongside a 2-liter DOHC 16-valve power plant and automatic-transmission-for now. How we just wish that it came in with a larger engine and manual transmission, to shun those potential tailgaters.

The handsome sheet metal of the Mazda6 is also complemented by a multitude of safety features, such as driver and passenger airbags, ABS and traction control. A sunroof is also standard.

To get acquainted further with Mazda’s zoom-zoom lifestyle, units of the Mazda Tribute and a hot, red, RX-8 were also included in the array of test vehicles for that day.

The Tribute 4x2 is Mazda’s version of the Ford Escape, albeit with a different front and rear end, and other minor cosmetic changes. It has a 200-hp, 3-liter V6 engine, making the Tribute the default leader in its category. Class-leading interior space also affirms that statement. As with all Mazdas, this vehicle also has that great and responsive handling characteristic.

The RX-8, on the other hand, is Mazda’s latest iteration of the Mazda RX series, but this time being a true four-seater, via its unique four-door body design. Under the hood is a Renesis engine, an improved version of the popular rotary engine.

Google should include Mazda vehicles in its search results list every time the "responsive" keyword is encountered. Now that would be enough reason for you to get a Mazda!