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2018 Mazda6 Signature: they built it and customers are coming
Published 1:30 am Friday, August 3, 2018
Remember the iconic line from the Field of Dreams movie, ”build it, and he will come?”
Mazda has repurposed that line for its Signature trim level: It built a vehicle with superior driving dynamics, class-above refinement, an abundance of amenities, technology and a strong engine – and customers have indeed come.
In fact, the Signature trim level has been well received, selling more than twice as well as expected, and attracting customers from traditional luxury brands.
That brings us to my test drive, the 2018 Mazda6 Signature sedan. It’s certainly a four-door family sedan, but so much more.
Powered by a 2.5T, DOHC, four-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with sport mode, the combo generates 227-horsepower and 310 lb.-ft. of torque. Discerning drivers will note the car’s instantaneous response time thanks to its dynamic pressure turbo which accelerates exhaust gasses through a tiny outlet to quickly spool up its turbocharger at low rpm. The engine produces torque on part with a 4.0-liter V8.
The front-wheel driver also benefits from standard G-vectoring control, a Mazda-exclusive technology that makes steering response more direct and linear by using a small reduction of engine torque at turn in, to put extra weight on the front tires.
Mazda6 seats up to five adults, includes a spacious, functional trunk and receives an EPA rating of 31 miles per gallon down the highway.
Creature comforts include Chestnut Nappa leather seats, dual-zone climate control, cruise control, rear-view camera, and premium Bose audio system with 11 speakers, power and heated side mirrors, USB audio input and Bluetooth hands-free phone. Fully redesigned ventilated and heated front seats are wider with high-density, vibration-absorbing urethane foam that creates a firm supportive seating surface.
Other new technologies now available at the Signature level include a 360-degree view monitor, a reconfigurable 7.0-inch TFT gauge display, a new eight-inch Mazda Connect infotainment display, radar cruise control with stop and go, and a windshield-projected active driving heads-up display.
Exterior changes are highlighted by a new grille and a lower center of gravity with wider wheelbase. Other goodies include 19-inch alloy wheels, standard LED headlights, integrated fog lights and a machine gray metallic coat of paint.
The list of safety and security features is lengthy. Standard equipment includes dynamic stability and traction control, hill launch assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, high-beam control, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, smart-brake support, and an anti-theft engine immobilizer.
Mazda has put together a top-of-the-line Signature package that will not only meet your expectations, but also exceed them. And with a price that is less than luxury, more buyers will surely come, Ray.
Base Price: 35,640
Price As Driven: $36,140
Base price includes destination charge. Vehicles are provided by the manufacturer. Prices may vary at local dealerships.