Summer is finally here! Climate prognosticators are calling for a hotter than usual season this year and depending on who you listen to, more rain or sunshine than normal. As is typical of weather reporters throughout the world, this generalization is known as covering your bases. Whatever the outcome, it is greatly appreciated to no longer be cold here above the 49th.

For calendar and model year 2009, Mazda likewise covers a lot of ground with a strong line-up of small to midsize cars capable in all types of driving conditions. Which vehicle you might consider is likely to depend on driving style, space requirements, whether or not you have a growing family and what many consider the most important factor when choosing a new vehicle; overall fuel economy and the fun-to-drive quotient.

Here are two excellent options from the Japanese automaker affectionately referred to as the zoom-zoom company.
 
2009 Mazda6

Mazda's four-door for the mid-size class becomes a larger and stronger vehicle in 2009. The new design for Mazda6 shows 114 mm added to the wheelbase length and the overall structure of the car is longer and broader. That translates into more room for passengers in the five-seat cabin.

Two versions score different powertrains. Mazda6 I4 carries a 2.5-liter in-line-four engine which produces 170 hp at 6000 rpm through a standard 6-speed manual transmission. A 5-speed  automatic transmission is available as optional equipment. Mazda6 GS and GT bump up to a 3.7-liter V6 that rips to 272 hp at 6250 rpm. Luxury Package options feature a new push-button starter on both the 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder GT models.

Driving impressions

The 2009 Mazda6 is a nimble and enjoyable car to drive. A midsize sedan with excellent seats front and back, it takes corners in stride thanks in part to the excellent independent double wishbone front and E-type multi-link rear suspension. Stops are short with standard ABS, but not in the sport sedan class. Outward visibility is superb and parking even in tight spaces is a breeze with easy to judge front and rear overhangs. An attractive alternative to the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, it should also be a consideration for those looking at the new Ford Taurus. 

Fuel economy ratings:

GS-I4, GT-I4 6MT: 10.4/6.9 L/100 km
GS-I4, GT-I4 5AT Sport: 9.7/6.7 L/100 km
GS-V6, GT-V6 6AT Sport: 12.1/8.0 L/100 km

Favourite colours: Sangria Red Mica and Kona Blue Mica

Pricing:

Suggested retail pricing starts at $22,995 for the 2009 Mazda6 GS-I4 and peaks to $34,395 for the Mazda6 GT-V6. Options and dealer discounts will, of course, alter the final price.

2009 Mazda MX-5

Mazda's two-seat and open-top roadster is the perennial best-selling sports car. Driving the MX-5 is a strong 2.0-liter in-line four-cylinder engine with dual cams and variable intake valve timing. Power ratings come in at 167 hp and 140 lb.-ft or torque respectively. The plant can link to three different transmissions; a five-speed manual, six-speed manual or six-speed Sport automatic with shifter paddles on the steering wheel. The convertible top works manually with a single latch handle.

Mazda enhances the year-round comfort and security of the MX-5 Miata by offering a power retractable hard top in the top-line GT model. It's the quickest-closing power top in the business, as the push-button conversion from hardtop coupe to airy convertible consumes only 12 seconds. Just touch a toggle switch and watch the roof pleat at two seams and fold in three sections to stack behind the cockpit in the same space where the soft top stows. Unlike other folding hard tops which tuck into the trunk, Miata's PRHT does not consume any space in the trunk.

Driving Impressions

The Mazda MX-5 is a throwback to a simpler time. Driving convertible sports cars in the mid 90’s was not necessarily all about the horsepower. Mazda builds on the sheer joy of open-top cruising by having steadily improved overall performance as the years progressed. In my opinion, however, 21st Century changes in technology and stronger competition have left the MX-5 feeling somewhat dated and past it’s prime. That said, for reliability and simple wind-in-your-hair fun, it remains a favorite choice for drivers throughout North America.

Fuel economy ratings:

5 M/T: 9.2/7.1 L/100 km
6 M/T: 9.7/7.1 L/100 km
6 Automatic: 10.1/7.2 L/100 km

Favourite colour: Competition Yellow and True Red

Pricing:

The 2009 Mazda MX-5 starts at $28,995 for the 5-speed manual equipped GX and tops out at $41,195 for the 6-speed automatic GT.