Full 2009 Mazda6 pricing (Canada-US)

Mazda Canada finally posted pricing and equipment for the 2009 Mazda6.

I am not surprised that the Canadian MSRP has been reduced by $2000 compared to the 2008 model to start at $22,495. I say "not surprised" as there was nearly $6000 difference between the US base GS and Canadian models for the 2008 model year. Of course Mazda dealers have quite a bit of leeway in pricing and are quick to point this out when you visit a dealer (at least in the Montreal area).

Equipment has also gone up on Canadian models. The base GS now comes with 17" alloys standard. The former "value" package has now been replaced with a "comfort" package that now includes a power moonroof, rain sensing wipers and automatic headlight on/off for only $600 more than the previous value package.  This represents an excellent value at approximately $25,000 out the door (without transport and dealer prep). Canadian color choices have not been announced, but I was quite surprised that our American cousins have a very restricted choice. Can we expect the same?

In the US prices start much lower but as expected have less equipment in base trim. The comparable i Touring model, without the sunroof is $21,705, but also has a few extra features like pushbutton start. The sunroof package includes the Bose audio system and brings the price to $25,845 including destination. This pricing is very aggressive and Mazda are clearly aiming their guns at the Accord and Camry. 

While I am still questioning the larger/heavier vehicle, I am sure the extensive retooling of the Flat Rock plant for the "world" Atenza/6 would have resulted in a much more expensive car, at least as expensive as Accord/Camry. I am purely speculating, but I think the improvements Ford made to the old Mazda6 chassis for the Fusion were leveraged for the new north American Mazda6, with the sheet metal adapted from the Atenza. I can attest from driving a Fusion and owning a 2000 Focus ZX3 that Ford has some very talented chassis engineers, so from an economic standpoint and keeping the price down, this seems logical.

Mazda has also lagged a bit in the powertrain and interior finishing department, therefore the costs involved in powertrain improvements were probably high in order to be competitive.  

I am looking forward to trying the new L4 with the 6 speed manual, but where this car will make or break will be in the automatic. For me the current reference in automatics is in my wife's Acura CSX, and I will be looking forward to seeing how Mazda has improved.

Tthe mid-size car segment is now a no-brainer as far as I'm concerned. By far the best value, and probably the best driving experience will be the 2009 Mazda6. It is just too bad that there are fewer and fewer "smaller" mid-size cars. While the small cars are now creeping up in mid-size territory, aside from the Mazda3 there is not much worth having without spending over $30,000.

Finally, with the price of fuel, the more economical Accord and the availability of Camry Hybrids might sway a few buyers. It will be a question now to see how the competition reacts. Given the propensity for Mazda's dealers willingness to negotiate (at least compared to Honda/Toyota) means getting people in the showrooms and not comparing pricing on-line.