There’s no better way to get to really know a car line than to try the base model, and no frippery can hide the inherent rightness of the Mazda6. It just drives so much sweeter than the mainstream Camrys and Accord; even the platform-mate Ford Fusion cant match it for steering feel and precision. It has great body control, rides and handles well, and serves up an added zest to turn-in that reminds me of the two Miatas I owned and raced. Its 2.5-liter, 170hp engine sings well enough, and hooked to a smooth 5-speed auto, shuffles the 6 along with traffic with ease. Inside it’s on par with the latest Korean offerings still, and ahead of Ford, Honda and Toyota for style and perceived quality. Outside it’s an uncommon site, meaning its curvier styling stands out that much more. Annoyances include an amateurish sat-radio antenna and an anemic-looking wheel/tire combo. Mazda has stopped pumping 6s into rental fleets, boding well for continued high residual values; they’re generally trouble-free to boot.

Price range: $22,035-23,470

EPA ratings: 22/31mpg

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