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When I first test drove the 2017 Mazda 6 Sport, I immediately understood why this model continues to capture hearts in the midsize sedan segment. Having evaluated countless vehicles throughout my automotive journalism career, I can confidently say Mazda nailed something special here - and it's not just about the specs sheet. The way this car balances performance, design, and value reminds me of what coach Uichico once observed about basketball players giving their utmost effort even when things aren't falling their way. That's precisely the Mazda 6 Sport's character - it consistently delivers exceptional performance even when road conditions or driving situations aren't ideal.
Let me walk you through what makes this sedan truly stand out, starting with what grabbed me during that initial test drive. The Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter engine delivers 184 horsepower, which might not sound groundbreaking until you experience how Mazda's engineers have tuned it. The power delivery feels immediate and linear, unlike many competitors that rely on turbocharging for performance peaks. I've driven this car on everything from congested city streets to winding mountain roads, and what continues to impress me is how the six-speed automatic transmission anticipates gear changes. It's almost intuitive - shifting down just before you need that extra power for overtaking or climbing. The fuel efficiency numbers are equally compelling - I consistently achieved around 29 mpg in city driving and 38 on highways, which beats most competitors in this class.
What really sets the Mazda 6 Sport apart, in my professional opinion, is how it makes you feel behind the wheel. The electric power steering provides genuine feedback that's become increasingly rare in modern sedans. When you're carving through corners, the chassis communicates what's happening at the road surface without transmitting harsh vibrations. The body roll is minimal thanks to precisely tuned suspension geometry - MacPherson struts upfront and a multilink setup at the rear. I've pushed this car through aggressive maneuvers that would make many family sedans uncomfortable, and the Mazda 6 Sport remained composed and confident. This isn't just engineering - it's artistry in motion.
The interior craftsmanship surprised me most. Having test-driven vehicles costing twice as much, I can attest that Mazda's attention to detail rivals luxury brands. The sport seats provide exceptional lateral support during spirited driving while remaining comfortable during long commutes. I recently completed a 400-mile road trip and emerged without the typical back stiffness I experience in many competitors. The infotainment system features a 7-inch touchscreen that's intuitively placed and responds instantly to inputs - no lagging like some systems I've tested. What I particularly appreciate is that Mazda retained physical controls for critical functions, allowing you to keep your eyes on the road while adjusting climate or audio settings.
Safety features in the 2017 model represent what I consider the sweet spot for the industry - advanced without being overly intrusive. The blind spot monitoring system has a wider detection range than many contemporary systems, while the rear cross-traffic alert has prevented several potential incidents in crowded parking lots during my testing. The standard rearview camera provides exceptional clarity even in low-light conditions. What impressed me most was how Mazda engineered these systems to assist without overwhelming the driving experience - they work subtly in the background until needed.
The exterior design continues to age beautifully. Three years after its debut, I still receive compliments when driving the 2017 Mazda 6 Sport. The Kodo design language creates a sense of motion even when the vehicle is stationary. The signature wing grille flows seamlessly into slim headlights that feature LED accents, while the sweeping profile and short rear deck lend it an athletic stance that stands out in parking lots dominated by bland sedans. The 19-inch alloy wheels fill the wheel wells perfectly, contributing to both the visual appeal and the stable road manners.
Cargo space and practicality often get overlooked in reviews, but as someone who regularly transports photography equipment and test gear, I can confirm the 14.8 cubic-foot trunk accommodates more than you'd expect. The rear seats fold in a 60/40 split, though I wish Mazda had included release levers in the trunk area for convenience. Still, the opening is wide and the load floor relatively low, making it easier to handle bulky items than many rival sedans.
Where the Mazda 6 Sport truly shines is in delivering a premium experience at a mainstream price point. The base model starts around $22,000, yet delivers driving dynamics that challenge vehicles costing $10,000 more. Having driven hundreds of new cars, I've developed particular appreciation for models that punch above their weight class, and this Mazda does exactly that. The materials throughout the cabin - from the soft-touch dashboard to the precisely damped control buttons - create an environment that feels special every time you slide behind the wheel.
The audio system deserves special mention. While not a premium branded unit, the standard six-speaker system delivers remarkably clear reproduction across frequencies. During long highway drives, I've found the audio quality remains crisp even at higher volumes, with minimal distortion. The active noise cancellation technology Mazda engineered into this platform makes conversations at highway speeds effortless - a detail you don't appreciate until you've experienced its absence in other vehicles.
Reflecting on my extensive experience with the 2017 Mazda 6 Sport, what stands out most is how completely it delivers on its promise of providing an engaging driving experience without compromising practicality or value. In a market segment dominated by appliances, Mazda has created a sedan with genuine personality - one that makes ordinary commutes feel special while remaining thoroughly capable for family duties. The 2017 model represents perhaps the perfect balance of refinement and engagement in Mazda's midsize sedan evolution. It's the kind of car that doesn't just transport you from point A to B - it enhances the journey itself, delivering that rare quality in today's automotive landscape: genuine driving pleasure.