The economy may be down but life goes on. We still need vehicles that meet our needs. I asked Jody Victorto tell us about a new Mazda for 2010.

Jody Victor: Generally speaking the Mazda6 occupies a class where low adrenaline, simple transportation is expected. The first Mazda6 was something of a cult classic, so its no suprise that some may find it hard to believe the Mazda6 I GT is something more than a mid-sized sedan. The original 6 was not faultless, but it offered razor's edge handling and controlled suspension, making it capalbe of romps around corners (much like Mazda's "Zoom Zoom" marketing implies).

In the redesign Mazda is clearly targeting North America—the hatchback and wagon variants are gone as well as the turbocharged Mazdaspeed6. The 2010 features a single front-wheel drive, four-door with manual transmission available only in the four cylander model. Fuel economy is down, prices aren't great, the revised 6 isn't quite the car it once was. However, power is up. The 3.7 liter V6 is a match for the defunct Mazdaspeed6. However the 2010 is a car made for Americans. It features Bluetooth and push-button start among other features.

The new 6 is also quite a bit larger. The extra length seems to have mostly shown up in the back seat, which is now mammoth. There is lots of stretch-out room for any sized passanger and flop-down arm rests. The 6 handles well and is comfortable in nearly any terrian. It also handles the curves well. Fuel economy is about 29 highway, 20 city. Typical for the class.

Mazda's intention, clearly, is to make a big, comfortable highway car that resembles cars American's like driving—the Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan, the Honda Accord, Nissan Altima etc. The new 6 could be a great beiginning family car with its increased room and luxury. Business people who are on the road a lot might also enjoy this car (though you might find better highway mileage in another vehicle). I'm guessing these kinds of customers are going to be the happiest owners of the Mazda6 2010 Redesign.

Thanks, Jody! We'll be looking forward to this new Mazda!

Joe Victor