2005 Mazda 6 Classic review from Australia and New Zealand

None (touch wood). Too soon to say.

I found these reviews interesting when we were deciding which car to buy, so I'm returning the favour.

We've just bought the 2005 classic wagon and are delighted. It's the new 'face-lift' model with 5 speed auto transmission and 'activematic' which isn't entirely dissimilar to driving a manual.

Being used to larger 6cl cars, I was concerned that a 4cl car would seem slow. However, I'm pleased to report that the 4cl 6 appears to have plenty of go (enough for me anyway). It actually feels pretty gutsy at 3000rpm plus.

The interior is great. Everything is quite conventional and easy to operate. The quality of the fit-out appears to be high. The display panel combines air con, trip computer, audio and outside temperature info. For me this works really well. The seats are comfortable and the cabin is roomier than I had expected.

It seems to me that the 6 is not as quiet as an Accord, but it certainly isn't noisy. It actually seems to have quite a pleasant, throaty noise when you rev it up a bit. Ride seems to be smooth and comfortable.

The cargo space accommodates bulky prams etc without any drama.

All positive so far. What's the downside? The grille assembly seems a little fragile - time will tell how durable it is. Also, I don't seem to be able to adjust the tilt of the drivers seat (not the seat back - the seat). Seat is v. comfortable nonetheless. Leg room in the back seat is tighter than in a full-sized family car (no surprise I guess). The floor of the cargo space is plastic and may not be strong enough for any lunatics planning to cart bricks around in it.

Bear in mind that this is the opinion of a non petrol head, but to summarise: I love it and can't see the novelty wearing off for some time.

It's only been a few days, so if I become aware of any significant shortcoming I'll post another comment.