Yahoo Finance Engine and Transmission
Engine and Transmission Rating:
Unlike most mid-size alternatives, the Mazda 6 lineup skips the obligatory hybrid or plug-in powertrains. Instead, there are two responsive 2.5-liter four-cylinder engines-one is turbocharged-and either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. Before the traditionalists get too excited, however, the manual is only available on the base model.
What’s New for 2018?
The Mazda 6 can now compete with more powerful rivals-sort of. The newly added turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-four develops 227 horsepower (250 on premium 93-octane fuel) and 310 lb-ft of torque. Unfortunately, the turbo model isn’t offered with the six-speed manual transmission. That’s now reserved solely for the base, nonturbo Sport model. Instead, the turbo setup gets a six-speed automatic. The standard naturally aspirated four-cylinder now features cylinder deactivation along with an additional 3 horsepower and 1 lb-ft of torque as compared with last year’s engine.
We recently tested the new turbocharged engine, and-surprise-it was quicker than the base version. Unfortunately, the Mazda 6 was also the slowest of its similarly powerful rivals from zero to 60 mph. On the flip side, it was among the quickest from 50 to 70 mph, and its throttle was quick to react at a variety of speeds. Too bad the new engine failed to separate itself versus the naturally aspirated version, which also has a responsive throttle and respectable acceleration times.
Test Results: Acceleration
Manual Shifting Capability
Automatic Stop/Start
2017 Mazda 6
Competitors offer more engine choices and more powerful ones, including turbocharged four-cylinders and even V-6s, all of which outgun the Mazda’s 184 horsepower. The 6 impresses in spite of its power deficiency, posting class-competitive acceleration, at least against similarly powerful four-cylinder sedans. The standard six-speed manual transmission and optional six-speed automatic are both excellent. Even so, the 6 is crying out for a more powerful engine option or a turbocharger. Thankfully, Mazda heard our request and offers the new turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder.
Test Results: Acceleration
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