Car Statistics: Mazda - 6 Series 08 (4 stars)

Styling (5 stars)

We liked the looks of the Mazda 6 when the current model was first released, and the mid-life facelift has only served to underline this view. It gets a restyled front foglight surround, which adopts the swooping theme of the head and taillights.

Handling (4 stars)

The steering has been tweaked in the facelift, as has the overall weight. The 6 feels assured through tight corners, and there is little body roll when you throw it around.

Comfort (4 stars)

Mazda says the 6's ride had attracted negative feedback from owners in the UK, so it has sought to smooth the experience out a bit. As a result the car deals with road imperfections well and the seats are supportive, even if some of the materials don't feel of the highest standard.

Quality (4 stars)

The interior has seen less of a change than the rest of the car, and the same hard-wearing plastics are still to be found in the cockpit. There is no reason to think that this is a car that will be anything less than reliable.

Performance (4 stars)

Three power levels on the 2.2-diesel seems a lot, and the pick on drive alone is easily the highest powered version. The mid-range output is the best all-rounder, with plenty of pace for overtaking despite feeling slightly noisy at times.

Roominess (4 stars)

The driver and front seat passenger have no cause for complaint, with ample room to stretch out. There's plenty of legroom in the back, but headroom is a squeeze in the hatchback. Clever quick-fold rear seats are a neat touch and help make the most of the very generous boot space.

Costs (4 stars)

Family cars without a prestige badge tend to lose value rather quickly, but the 6 fares much better than most. Economy has improved over the old car, and emissions are lower, but not as low as rivals from marques such as BMW, Audi or even Ford.

Value (4 stars)

The Mazda is competitively priced, although don't expect huge discounts. Even basic models come with plenty of safety kit, alloy wheels and air-conditioning.

Stereo (4 stars)

Basic models come with a so-so stereo with just four speakers. An MP3 jack is standard, though. Top-spec models have a powerful Bose system and a CD-changer. A flashy touch-screen sat-nav is on the options list.