Mazda 6 Estate

The car that began Mazda's current fixation with its 'zoom-zoom' advertising, the Mazda6 transformed the image of the brand from one that sold worthy-but-dull cars (MX-5 apart) to one that produces a range of cars people could become genuinely excited by. Class-leading handling along with excellent value make the Mazda6 one of the best cars in its class. Upgrades in 2005 made the Mazda6 more sporty looking, and offered a smarter interior and power increases for 2.0-litre petrol and diesel engines.

S, TS, TS2, SPORT

Air conditioning, alloys and electric windows and mirrors standard on S models. CD player added to revised models as standard. TS models have air conditioning upgraded to automatic climate control, softer upholstery, and leather trimmed steering wheel. TS2 models have a premium audio system, dash-mounted six-CD autochanger, electric sunroof and traction control with an electronic stability programme. Sport models have similar equipment to the TS2 but with racier trim.

2.3 SPORT