2012 Mazda MAZDA6 i Touring Plus Trim Overview

Entering the realm of the quasi-plush, Mazda’s midlevel 2012 Mazda6 i Touring Plus offers spiffy looks, a roomy cabin and 16.6 cubic feet of trunk space. This family-oriented 5-passenger midsize sedan also comes with 17-inch alloy wheels and a power sunroof outside, with cloth upholstery, an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, full power accessories, and simulated alloy and leather accents adorning the console, dashboard, doors and steering wheel.

Standard cruise control and telescoping tilt-wheel steering each come standard, as do a folding rear center armrest and manual air conditioning. Entertainment, finally, is presented via a 6-CD changer and 6 speakers, while Bluetooth technology offers hands-free calling.

Options in the value-laden 2012 Mazda6 i Touring Plus include a rear spoiler, remote engine start, satellite radio and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror with integrated remote garage door opener.

Powering the 2012 i Touring Plus is, as its i-designation indicates, a 170-hp, 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder (I4) engine that mates with a standard 5-speed shiftable automatic transmission for 167 lb-ft of torque. Mileage estimates for this average-performing four-banger, meantime, are in the range of 22 mpg city/31 highway.

Standard safety equipment, finally, remains 4-wheel antilock brakes (ABS), traction and stability control, front and rear head airbags, front side-mounted airbags and front head restraint whiplash protection. These are complemented by front fog/driving lights, turn-signal-integrated mirrors and a remote antitheft alarm.