AUSTRALIANS stepping out of traditional rear-drive large sedans have been pleasantly surprised by the quality of the four-cylinder, front-drive alternatives.

The Mazda6 is, in many regards, the best of them.

It looks and feels more expensive than it is and is engaging when driven hard yet comfortable and quiet while cruising.

The petrol engine of our test car was a bit gravelly for our liking but that was the only small fly in some otherwise entirely pleasant ointment.

Mazda has also managed to squeeze in plenty of value for money too, so customers can feel like they are spoiling themselves without spoiling their bank balance.

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