The biggest question I have is in regards to suspension. I know that about 6 months ago, I read that the Mazda6 would have the exact same suspension tuning for all markets throughout the world, and that the US would not get any numbed down version that we usually do (Thank God!). Is that still the plan? I know they changed the taillamps and probably a few other options, but is the suspension still that same wonderful tuning we've read about? Please tell me that is the case.
Second, when exactly will the cars be built. Someone posted a sheet about 2002 production changes at American plants, and I think it said the 6 was to commence production at Flat Rock on the 10th or 15th of October. However, I read an autoweek article that stated that inventory has already been stacking up at the Flat Rock facility and will be ready for shipment. Whats the deal with that? Are they just pre-production models with the consumer car production beginning yesterday or in a few days from now?
Lastly, I surfed over to edmunds.com, where they're picking the editors picks, and the most significant car of the year. The finalists are Honda Element, Nissan 350Z, Mazda6 and Porsche Cayenne. Pretty cool if you ask me. When was the last time you saw a FAMILY SEDAN ever listed on a most significant list? That is some stiff competition, and some good company for our beloved 6. I understand why they chose each car. I would probably rule out the cayenne, as it isn't anything truly ground breaking, unless you are Porsche. The other three are gonna be tight. While not a huge fan of the Z, it is undoubtedly an amazing car. So much performance, panache, handling for so little money. I will admit it is a difficult contender. The Element is significant as well. Here we have about the most functional, youth oriented vehicle I think I've ever seen. Yes it is ugly, but it is very ground breaking. A big jump for Honda too. Then the 6. Don't rule it out, this car is going to be the best handling, most surefooted, zippiest, fun to drive family sedan ever offered. It won't be the fastest, or the quietest, but as an all around package, I don't think it could ever be beat. There are a lot of cars out there who aspire to be Camry/Accords sales level, or 3 series wannabes, but only the 6 has been the true car that can be as close to both for the price. A very significant car for Mazda as well.
http://www.edmunds.com/news/column/carmudg...html?id=lin9126
Anyway, just wanna hear what some think.
Second, when exactly will the cars be built. Someone posted a sheet about 2002 production changes at American plants, and I think it said the 6 was to commence production at Flat Rock on the 10th or 15th of October. However, I read an autoweek article that stated that inventory has already been stacking up at the Flat Rock facility and will be ready for shipment. Whats the deal with that? Are they just pre-production models with the consumer car production beginning yesterday or in a few days from now?
Lastly, I surfed over to edmunds.com, where they're picking the editors picks, and the most significant car of the year. The finalists are Honda Element, Nissan 350Z, Mazda6 and Porsche Cayenne. Pretty cool if you ask me. When was the last time you saw a FAMILY SEDAN ever listed on a most significant list? That is some stiff competition, and some good company for our beloved 6. I understand why they chose each car. I would probably rule out the cayenne, as it isn't anything truly ground breaking, unless you are Porsche. The other three are gonna be tight. While not a huge fan of the Z, it is undoubtedly an amazing car. So much performance, panache, handling for so little money. I will admit it is a difficult contender. The Element is significant as well. Here we have about the most functional, youth oriented vehicle I think I've ever seen. Yes it is ugly, but it is very ground breaking. A big jump for Honda too. Then the 6. Don't rule it out, this car is going to be the best handling, most surefooted, zippiest, fun to drive family sedan ever offered. It won't be the fastest, or the quietest, but as an all around package, I don't think it could ever be beat. There are a lot of cars out there who aspire to be Camry/Accords sales level, or 3 series wannabes, but only the 6 has been the true car that can be as close to both for the price. A very significant car for Mazda as well.
http://www.edmunds.com/news/column/carmudg...html?id=lin9126
Anyway, just wanna hear what some think.
