2006 Mazda MAZDASPEED6

The most positive driving impressions include: Enthusiastic punch from the turbocharged engine, great steering turn-in response, and an AWD system that helps the car "rotate" quickly through corners.

Just Desserts

This is now the part where the other shoe drops, and there are just a couple of negatives from an enthusiast-driver's perspective: The aforementioned shift quality, and a coarse engine note with accompanying vibration. In fairness, a racetrack always makes a perfectly good street car seem weak somewhere, so put minimal demerits on: Excessive body roll in corners.


One of the most memorable virtues of the MAZDASPEED6 is its engine. The motor pulls very hard indeed, making the otherwise sensible sedan into a real gentlemen's (or gentleladies') express. So you can commute to work in it, take your co-workers to lunch, pick up 80 lbs. of dog food, and scream right up a mountain road home when you're done. But there are virtually no side bolsters for the rear seat, so warn your passengers before you enter the Malibu Canyon Grand Prix.


You know Mazda's really onto something with the MAZDASPEED6 when you can't help admiring the materials and craftsmanship in the interior, lifting the hood to look at the big air-to-air turbo intercooler sitting atop of the engine, or turning around for an appreciative glance after you've parked the car and are walking away. All told, the MAZDASPEED6 really is an exciting, affordable sports sedan that's a very good alternative to the Mitsubishi and Subaru all-wheel drivers. With the "Zoom Zoom" energy the Mazda brand has these days, the MAZDASPEED6 deserves a good look. (www.mazdausa.com)