2006 Mazda Speed 6 Grand Touring from the November, 2006 issue
| Reviewed By: | Paul Duchene |
|---|---|
| Price: | $33,440 |
| Likes: | Intuitively fast, with 274-hp, 16-valve, turbo 4-cylinder, all-wheel drive with active torque split, slick 6-speed, huge vented brakes. Simple controls, including navigation, Recaro-style leather, heated seats (8-way power for driver), monster Bose stereo with 7 speakers, 6-CD player. Auto up/down on all windows, decent back seat, sizeable trunk. 2.3-liter engine returned almost 30 mpg highway—5 mpg above EPA estimate. |
| Gripes: | Quick clutch must be learned, keyless entry card begs to be left someplace. Needs trick color, like Subaru WRX electric blue, Mitsubishi Evo yellow. |
| Verdict: | The latest Mazda 6 redo resulted in sales doubling in Europe; I expect the same here, and this front-line fighter should give BMW 3 owners fits. |
| Fun to Drive: |  |
| Fun to Look at: |  |
| Overall Experience: |  |
