Mazda Does It Again, Only Better

Last year at this time, we were lauding the new Mazda3 subcompact, which made our 2014 Ward’s 10 Best Interiors list for its striking black-and-ivory color scheme, terrifically simple HMI and amazingly affordable price.

But Mazda refused to stop there, spinning another Ward’s 10 Best winner this year with a refresh of the Mazda6 just two years after launching the current-generation car.

Thematically, the 6 follows the same formula of its smaller sibling, but takes the whole concept up a notch in fit, finish and luxurious touches – once again in a package that is bargain priced. How could we resist?

Competition is getting tougher in the midsize sedan segment, despite its shrinking volumes at the hands of the increasingly popular CUV, and that shows in pretty impressive redesigns for the Toyota Camry and Subaru Legacy, both among this year’s Ward’s 10 Best Interiors nominees.

But the Mazda6 goes them one better. With its upscale equipment and just the right touch of bling, this looks like a luxury car, despite a decidedly average $30,195 base price for our Grand Touring test model.