2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring: 0-60 MPH Speed & Review

Let's dive deep into the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring and explore what makes it a standout vehicle, focusing particularly on its 0-60 mph performance. If you're wondering about the zip this car packs, you're in the right place. We'll cover everything from engine specs to real-world driving experiences, giving you a comprehensive look at what the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring brings to the table.

Overview of the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring

The 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring isn't just another sedan; it's a statement. Mazda has always been about blending performance with style, and this model year is no exception. The Grand Touring trim takes it up a notch, adding a touch of luxury and enhanced features that make it a compelling choice for drivers who want a little extra.

From the outside, the KODO design language gives it a sleek, almost coupe-like silhouette. The attention to detail is evident, with its signature grille, sharp lines, and premium finishes. Step inside, and you’re greeted with a well-appointed cabin featuring leather upholstery, advanced technology, and comfortable seating. But let's get to the heart of the matter: how does it perform?

Under the hood, you'll typically find a 2.5-liter SKYACTIV-G engine. This isn't just any engine; it's engineered for efficiency and responsiveness. It delivers a balance of power and fuel economy that's hard to beat in its class. The engine is usually paired with a smooth-shifting automatic transmission, making for a refined driving experience. For those who prefer more control, a manual transmission is also available, adding to the car's sporty appeal.

But enough with the build-up. What's the 0-60 mph time? On average, the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring clocks in around 6.4 to 6.8 seconds. This figure can vary slightly depending on testing conditions, but it consistently proves that this sedan has some serious pep. It’s quick enough to merge confidently onto highways and fun enough to enjoy on winding roads.

The driving experience is further enhanced by Mazda's G-Vectoring Control (GVC) technology. This system subtly adjusts engine torque in response to steering inputs, resulting in smoother and more precise handling. It’s one of those features you might not immediately notice, but it contributes significantly to the car’s overall stability and responsiveness.

Beyond performance, the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring offers a suite of advanced safety features. These include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. These technologies work together to provide an extra layer of protection and peace of mind for you and your passengers.

In summary, the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring is a well-rounded sedan that offers a blend of style, performance, and technology. Its 0-60 mph time is respectable, and its overall driving dynamics make it a joy to drive. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a road trip, this car is designed to deliver a premium experience.

Performance Metrics: 0-60 MPH and Beyond

When we talk about the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring, the 0-60 mph time is often a focal point, and for good reason. It’s a quick indicator of a car's acceleration and overall performance. As mentioned earlier, this model typically achieves this feat in about 6.4 to 6.8 seconds. But what contributes to this impressive figure, and what other performance aspects should you consider?

The heart of the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring is its 2.5-liter SKYACTIV-G engine. This engine is designed to maximize efficiency while delivering ample power. It produces around 184 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque, which is more than enough to make the car feel lively and responsive. The engine's design focuses on reducing internal friction and optimizing combustion, resulting in improved fuel economy and a punchy throttle response.

The SKYACTIV-Drive automatic transmission also plays a crucial role. It offers quick and smooth gear changes, ensuring that the engine is always in its optimal power band. For those who prefer a more engaging driving experience, the manual transmission provides precise control and enhances the car's sporty character. The manual version might even shave off a tenth or two from the 0-60 mph time, depending on the driver's skill.

Beyond the raw acceleration numbers, the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring offers excellent mid-range power. This means it can accelerate quickly from, say, 30 mph to 60 mph, making it ideal for overtaking on the highway. The engine feels torquey and responsive, providing a satisfying surge of power when you need it.

Handling is another area where the Mazda 6 shines. Its well-tuned suspension strikes a balance between comfort and control, allowing it to absorb bumps and potholes without feeling floaty. The steering is precise and communicative, giving you a good sense of what the front wheels are doing. This is especially noticeable on winding roads, where the car feels agile and planted.

Mazda's G-Vectoring Control (GVC) further enhances the driving experience. By subtly adjusting engine torque in response to steering inputs, it helps to smooth out weight transfers and improve stability. This results in more confident handling and reduced driver fatigue, especially on long journeys.

Of course, performance isn't just about speed and handling; it's also about braking. The 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring features a capable braking system that provides strong and consistent stopping power. The brakes are easy to modulate, allowing for smooth and controlled stops in both normal and emergency situations.

In summary, the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring offers a well-rounded performance package. Its 0-60 mph time is competitive, and its engine, transmission, handling, and braking all work together to deliver a satisfying driving experience. Whether you're looking for a fun daily driver or a comfortable long-distance cruiser, this car has a lot to offer.

Engine and Mechanical Specs

Delving into the engine and mechanical specifications of the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring provides a deeper understanding of what powers its performance. The heart of this sedan is the 2.5-liter SKYACTIV-G engine, a marvel of engineering designed for both efficiency and responsiveness. Let's break down the key components and features that make this engine stand out.

The 2.5-liter SKYACTIV-G engine is an inline-four-cylinder unit that utilizes direct injection and a high compression ratio. Direct injection means that fuel is injected directly into the combustion chamber, allowing for more precise control over the air-fuel mixture. This results in improved combustion efficiency and increased power output.

The high compression ratio, typically around 13:1, further enhances efficiency. By compressing the air-fuel mixture to a greater extent, the engine can extract more energy from each combustion cycle. However, achieving such a high compression ratio requires careful engineering to prevent engine knocking or pinging. Mazda has implemented various technologies to address this, including specially designed pistons and combustion chambers.

The engine produces around 184 horsepower at 5,700 rpm and 185 lb-ft of torque at 3,250 rpm. These figures are respectable for a naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, and they contribute to the car's lively acceleration and responsive throttle. The engine feels particularly strong in the mid-range, making it well-suited for everyday driving situations.

The SKYACTIV-Drive automatic transmission is another key component of the powertrain. This transmission is designed to provide quick and smooth gear changes, ensuring that the engine is always in its optimal power band. It also features a wide gear ratio spread, which helps to improve fuel economy at highway speeds.

For those who prefer a more engaging driving experience, a manual transmission is also available. The manual transmission provides precise control over gear selection, allowing drivers to extract the most performance from the engine. It also adds to the car's sporty character and makes it more fun to drive.

The suspension system on the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring consists of MacPherson struts in the front and a multi-link setup in the rear. This combination provides a good balance between comfort and control. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and potholes without feeling floaty, while also providing precise handling and minimal body roll in corners.

Mazda's G-Vectoring Control (GVC) technology is another notable feature. This system subtly adjusts engine torque in response to steering inputs, resulting in smoother and more stable handling. GVC works by reducing engine torque slightly when the driver turns the steering wheel, which shifts weight to the front wheels and improves grip. This makes the car feel more planted and responsive, especially on winding roads.

The braking system consists of four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock braking system (ABS). The brakes provide strong and consistent stopping power, and they are easy to modulate. The ABS system helps to prevent wheel lockup during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control.

In summary, the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring features a well-engineered powertrain and chassis that deliver a balanced and enjoyable driving experience. The 2.5-liter SKYACTIV-G engine is both efficient and responsive, while the SKYACTIV-Drive transmission provides smooth and quick gear changes. The suspension system and G-Vectoring Control technology contribute to the car's agile handling and stable road manners.

Real-World Driving Experience

Talking about specs and numbers is one thing, but let’s get real: what’s it actually like to drive the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring every day? The real-world driving experience offers a blend of comfort, performance, and practicality that makes it a standout in its class. So, buckle up as we take a virtual drive.

First off, the interior is a pleasant place to be. The leather seats are comfortable and supportive, making long drives a breeze. The cabin is well-insulated from outside noise, creating a serene environment. The layout of the controls is intuitive, and everything is within easy reach. The infotainment system is user-friendly, with a clear display and responsive touch screen.

Out on the road, the 2.5-liter SKYACTIV-G engine feels peppy and responsive. It provides ample power for merging onto highways and overtaking slower traffic. The engine is smooth and refined, with a pleasing sound that doesn't become intrusive. The automatic transmission shifts seamlessly, always finding the right gear for the situation.

The handling is where the Mazda 6 truly shines. The steering is precise and well-weighted, providing a good connection to the road. The car feels agile and planted in corners, inspiring confidence. Mazda's G-Vectoring Control (GVC) technology works subtly in the background, helping to smooth out weight transfers and improve stability. You might not notice it directly, but it contributes to the car's overall sense of composure.

The ride quality is also commendable. The suspension absorbs bumps and potholes effectively, without feeling overly soft or floaty. The car remains composed even on rough roads, providing a comfortable experience for both the driver and passengers.

Fuel economy is another strong point. The 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring is rated for up to 35 mpg on the highway, which is impressive for a mid-size sedan. In real-world driving, it's easy to achieve these numbers, especially on long trips. The engine's efficiency and the transmission's wide gear ratio spread contribute to the car's excellent fuel economy.

Practicality is also a key consideration for many drivers, and the Mazda 6 delivers in this area as well. The trunk is spacious, with plenty of room for luggage or groceries. The rear seats are comfortable for adults, and there's ample legroom and headroom. The car also has a number of useful storage compartments, including a large glovebox and door pockets.

Of course, no car is perfect. Some drivers might find the infotainment system a bit dated compared to newer models. The rear visibility could be better, although the blind-spot monitoring system helps to mitigate this. And while the engine is powerful enough for most situations, some drivers might wish for a bit more low-end torque.

Overall, the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring offers a compelling real-world driving experience. It combines comfort, performance, practicality, and fuel economy in a well-rounded package. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a road trip, this car is sure to impress.

Is the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring Right for You?

So, after all this, the big question remains: is the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring the right car for you? Let's break down the key factors to consider to help you make an informed decision. This sedan isn't just a mode of transportation; it's an experience.

First, consider your priorities. If you value driving enjoyment, the Mazda 6 Grand Touring is hard to beat. Its responsive engine, precise handling, and comfortable ride make it a joy to drive. Whether you're commuting to work or exploring winding back roads, this car will put a smile on your face.

If fuel economy is a major concern, the Mazda 6 Grand Touring is also a great choice. Its efficient SKYACTIV-G engine delivers impressive mileage, saving you money at the pump. This is especially important for drivers who spend a lot of time on the road.

Practicality is another factor to consider. The Mazda 6 Grand Touring offers a spacious interior, a large trunk, and plenty of storage compartments. It's well-suited for families, commuters, and anyone who needs a versatile vehicle.

Of course, there are other factors to consider as well. The 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring is a few years old now, so it might not have all the latest technology features. However, it still offers a good range of amenities, including a user-friendly infotainment system, advanced safety features, and comfortable seating.

Reliability is also an important consideration. The Mazda 6 has a good reputation for reliability, and the 2017 model is generally considered to be dependable. However, it's always a good idea to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic to ensure that the car is in good condition.

Finally, consider your budget. The 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring is typically priced lower than newer models, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. However, it's important to factor in the cost of maintenance and repairs, as well as insurance and registration fees.

In conclusion, the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring is a well-rounded sedan that offers a compelling blend of performance, fuel economy, practicality, and value. If you're looking for a car that's fun to drive, efficient, and reliable, it's definitely worth considering. However, it's important to weigh your priorities and budget to determine if it's the right fit for you.

Ultimately, the best way to decide if the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring is right for you is to take it for a test drive. Get behind the wheel and experience its performance, handling, and comfort firsthand. Talk to the owner and ask about their experiences with the car. And don't forget to have it inspected by a mechanic before you buy.