2009 Mazda 6i

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT JONATHAN WONG: Most of the time, it's sad to see a car grow up and become more mature and accommodating to the masses. More often than not it means a car loses its original identity that set it apart from the crowd. Thankfully, the new Mazda 6 has retained many of the traits that made it such an enjoyable driving midsize sedan during the previous generation.

Dimensions have grown in every direction for a larger interior space and trunk. There is a clear jump in interior quality with a more stylish layout and soft-touch materials on major surfaces. Seating position is comfortable and the backseat appears to be more accommodating for passengers compared to the last car.

The new car is good looking on the outside as well with a fuller, more distinctive appearance, while the flared front fenders styled after the RX-8's keep it sporty.

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Mazda's Mazdaspeed 3

We've always liked the Mazda Mazdaspeed 3, always thought it a fine little road blaster. When we ran a long-termer a few years ago, we were sad to see it go.

So, back at the New York auto show, when Mazda told us that its new 2010 Mazdaspeed 3 would blow us away, we couldn't wait to get behind the wheel. Now, having just finished winging our way up the California coast in one, we can say unequivocally that Mazda has improved the recipe.

To start with, there is oodles of power from the turbocharged, direct-injected, 2.3-liter four-cylinder. It produces 263 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. We thought the power delivery was nice and smooth. Mazda says it smoothed things out with better breathing and taller gearing. Mazda also says that to cut torque steer, it fiddled with the torque-management system, which adjusts power based on steering position and gear. It works. This is a terrific engine.

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