Engine: 3.0-liter dohc 24-valve V6

Engine Options: 160-hp 2.3-liter dohc 16-valve inline-4; 220-hp 3.0-liter dohc 24-valve V6

Transmission: 5-speed manual

Transmission Options: 5-speed manual; 4-speed automatic; 6-speed automatic

Standard Safety Equipment: dual-stage frontal airbags, ABS, EBD, traction control

Optional Safety Equipment: side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags

Basic Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles

Assembled In: Flat Rock, Michigan

Model Tested: Mazda 6s Sport Sedan ($23,295)

Standard Equipment: air conditioning; cruise control; six-speaker AM/FM/CD stereo; power windows, mirrors and door locks with remote keyless entry; leather-wrapped steering wheel with tilt and telescope adjustments; 17-inch aluminum road wheels; perimeter anti-theft alarm; dual-stage front airbags; side air bags and side-curtain air bags; power trunk release; dual 12-volt power outlets; front and rear dual map lights; halogen fog lamps, dual oval exhaust outlets, front and rear air dams, side sill extensions, wing-type deck lid spoiler

Options as Tested: auto-dimming mirror with compass and HomeLink ($250)

Destination Charge: 545

Gas Guzzler Tax:

Layout: front-wheel drive

Horsepower: 220 @ 6300

Torque: 192 @ 5000

Miles Per Gallon in the City/Highway: 19/26

Wheelbase: 105.3 inches

Length/Width/Height in Inches: 186.8/70.1/56.7 inches

Track Front/Rear: 60.2/60.2 inches

Turning Cycle: 38.7 feet

Seating Capacity: 5 people

Head/Hip/Leg Room, f: 38.7/54.7/42.3 inches

Head/Hip/Leg Room, m: inches

Head/Hip/Leg Room, r: 37.1/54.1/36.5 inches

Trunk Volume: 15.2 cubic feet

Payload:

Suspension, f: independent, upper and lower wishbones, coil springs, anti-roll bar

Ground Clearance: 5.1 inches

Curb Weight: 3287 pounds

Towing Capacity: pounds

Tires: P215/50VR17

Brakes: vented disc/solid disc, with ABS and EBD; traction control

Fuel Capacity: 18.0 Gallons