But the Tourer is winning the hearts of Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat drivers across the country, after beating its rivals in comfort, interior design and luggage space.

A highly sociable car, the legroom for the driver, front and rear passengers is somewhat impressive ! so much so that four clones of Jeremy Clarkson could stretch their legs comfortably. The practically-designed boot, with its steep walls and strong depth, provides enough room to transport the whole family's holiday luggage.

MAZDA 6 INTRO FILM:



Mazda have worked hard to save weight by using lighter materials and a more technologically efficient engine, being the first car to incorporate the manufacturer's Skyactiv technology = improving fuel consumption and cutting CO2 emissions.

It is not just the numbers that are impressive. The weight savings in this five-star NCAP-rated estate can truly be felt on country roads, negotiating the twists and turns of the Kentish countryside.


In slow traffic, the new Smart City Brake Support feature, which Mazda says works best between 3mph and 19mph, lived up to its hype when the car came to an emergency halt from 7mph after detecting a Fiesta at the traffic lights. It can also work between 10mph to 90mph.

With all the distractions likely in a family car - kids fighting, jumping around and throwing sweets, this feature could prove invaluable in preventing a large number of accidents, although drivers should never become complacent.

The car interior is simple, pleasant and welcoming.

Available from £22,545, drivers can achieve an impressive combined economy of around 62.4mpg. The 2.2 litre five-door diesel comes with either 148bhp or 172bhp engines.

Mazda says its SKYACTIV-D diesel engine with a two-stage turbocharger eliminates the response lag that is typical of turbo engines.

So while it may look like a Volvo, its DNA is quintessentially Mazda. A car should reflect its master's personality. So if you're one to indulge in luxury chocolates and travel to National Trust and English Heritage properties every summer, this is the car for you and your family. If you own a company and want to give your employees a car which is a leader in its class or want a car that will not lose a huge amount of its value, it could prove the quintessentially perfect buy.

It goes on sale from January 25, 2013.