The 2014 Mazda6 midsize sedan has been chosen as "Car of the Year" by Popular Mechanics.
The third-generation Mazda6 is completely redesigned with a fuel-saving engine and ground-breaking technology, according to a press release.
"To be named 'Car of the Year' by a publication as esteemed as Popular Mechanics is as flattering as it is humbling," said Jim O'Sullivan, president and CEO of Mazda North American Operations. "And the continued success of the 2014 Mazda6 is a testament to the brand's 'clean slate' approach, where everyone from every team--R&D and design to strategy and marketing--rolled up their proverbial sleeves to answer the question 'If we could start all over, what can we do better?'"
Automotive editors from Popular Mechanics test drove the newest cars for a year before judging the vehicles and selecting Car of the Year.
The award goes to the vehicle that "best exemplifies qualities that are most important to Popular Mechanics readers: affordability, utility, fuel efficiency, performance, innovation and bold design," said the press release.
"At Popular Mechanics, we love it when bold engineering and great design come together," said editor-in-chief Jim Meigs. "The Mazda6 really impressed us with how well it delivers so many things modern car owners want: great mileage, fun road-handling, upscale features and looks--and remarkable value."
The Mazda6, which features a collision-detecting brake system and a clean diesel engine, is available in three trim levels: sport, touring and grand touring. The car was also named a 2013 Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Its suite of safety technologies, which varies by trim level, includes sensing devices to avoid collisions and minimize damage in case of a crash.
Standard safety features for all models include airbags, whiplash-reducing front headrests, anti-lock brakes, daytime running lights and three-point safety belts.
The new Mazda6 is available nationwide starting at $20,990.
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