The 2018 Mazda6: Turbocharged Performance Meets Premium Sophistication

Key Takeaways: The 2018 Mazda6 debuted with an available turbocharged 2.5L engine (250 hp), premium interior upgrades, and enhanced safety tech, positioning it as a compelling alternative to the Camry and Accord in the mid-size sedan segment.

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Turbo Power Arrives in Mazda's Flagship Sedan

Mazda made waves at the 2017 Los Angeles Auto Show by unveiling a significantly refreshed 2018 Mazda6 sedan, headlined by the introduction of a turbocharged engine option. This marked a strategic move to revitalize the mid-size sedan's competitive position against sliding segment sales and increasingly powerful rivals.

The new optional powerplant - the same 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that propelled Mazda's CX-9 SUV - delivered:

• 250 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque when using premium fuel
• 227 horsepower on regular unleaded gasoline
• Substantial low-end torque for responsive acceleration
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Competitive Power Boost

This turbo option addressed what many enthusiasts considered the Mazda6's primary weakness against key competitors:

Design Evolution: Mature Elegance Personified

Mazda's KODO design language reached new levels of sophistication in the 2018 Mazda6, with subtle but impactful exterior revisions that enhanced its premium aesthetic:

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Exterior Enhancements

• Redesigned grille with more intricate detailing
• Revised front bumper for a lower, wider appearance
• Updated headlight design with premium lighting signatures
• More pronounced character lines along the body

Interior Transformation

The cabin received even more significant upgrades, reflecting Mazda's commitment to "mature elegance":

• Cleaner, more horizontal dashboard design
• Premium padding with contrast stitching throughout
• Authentic Japanese Sen wood trim accents
• Improved noise insulation for quieter cruising
• Upright tablet-style infotainment display (carried over but refined)
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Efficiency Meets Performance

While the turbocharged engine grabbed headlines, Mazda didn't neglect efficiency improvements across the lineup:

Base Engine Upgrades

The standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder received:

• Cylinder deactivation technology (runs on two cylinders during light loads)
• Revised fuel injection system
• Improved EPA estimated fuel economy (up to 26 city/35 highway mpg)

Transmission Refinements

Both engines paired with Mazda's well-regarded 6-speed automatic transmission featuring:

• Sport mode for more aggressive shifting
• Manual shift mode via steering wheel paddles (on higher trims)
• Revised final drive ratio for better highway efficiency
• 

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Advanced Safety: i-ActivSense Enhancements

The 2018 Mazda6 introduced significant upgrades to its safety technology suite:

New Standard and Available Features

• Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability (new for 2018)
• 360-degree camera system (greatly improved parking visibility)
• Enhanced lane-keeping assist with better road edge detection
• Improved automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
• Traffic sign recognition system

Driving Dynamics: Zoom-Zoom Refined

While competitors moved toward softer rides, Mazda maintained its sporty handling character:

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Chassis Improvements

• Revised suspension tuning for better bump absorption
• Increased body rigidity for improved cornering stability
• Electric power steering recalibrated for better feel
• Available 19-inch wheels with performance tires

Market Positioning and Value Proposition

The 2018 Mazda6 carved out a unique niche in the mid-size sedan segment by offering:

Premium Experience at Mainstream Pricing

• Interior quality rivaling luxury brands
• Engaging driving dynamics uncommon in class
• Available turbo power without premium brand pricing
• Strong predicted reliability scores
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Trim Level Breakdown

The 2018 Mazda6 offered four well-equipped trim levels:

1. Sport

• Standard 2.5L engine
• LED headlights and taillights
• Mazda Connect infotainment with 7-inch display

2. Touring

• Leatherette upholstery
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert

3. Grand Touring

• Available turbocharged engine
• Genuine leather seating
• Heated front seats
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4. Signature

• Turbo engine standard
• Premium Nappa leather
• Real wood trim
• Heated steering wheel

Why the 2018 Mazda6 Stands Out Today

Even years after its debut, the 2018 Mazda6 remains a compelling used car choice because:

• Its timeless design still looks contemporary
• The turbocharged engine provides ample power
• Premium interior materials age better than competitors'
• Strong reliability ratings mean lower ownership costs

For buyers seeking a mid-size sedan that prioritizes driving enjoyment and premium feel over pure practicality, the 2018 Mazda6 - especially in turbocharged form - represents one of the segment's most compelling options.

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