Long Term Update 2: 2009 Mazda6 S Grand Touring
By Ron Kiino
Photography by Julia LaPalme
"Speaking of the Jaguar, this Mazda6 S GT feels like a front-drive XF," says Kiino.
"Obviously, they're two very different sedans, but the road manners-lovely weighted steering, nicely calibrated throttle and brakes, and a graceful ride that imparts a sense of gliding over pavement-are especially similar."
Kiino, a fan of the Mazda's blind-spot monitoring system, understands how it can annoy others. "On a couple occasions, I forgot the BSM was on and was alarmed when I heard beeps as I went to change lanes. Luckily, the BSM can be disengaged via the dash-mounted button."
At 7500 miles, the 6 made its first service stop, a $102.65 oil change, full inspection, and tire rotation.
| 2009 Mazda6 S Grand Touring |
| Months/miles in service | 5/7530 |
| Avg econ/CO2 | 19.9 mpg/0.97 lb/mi |
| Unresolved problems | None |
| Maintenance cost | $102.65 |
| Normal-wear cost | $0 |