The 2008 Mazda MAZDA6 i Sport sits on the lower-end of the lineup, offered only as a sedan. Under the hood is a 156-hp, 2.3-liter DOHC I4 engine and choice of 5-speed manual or automatic. Fuel economy averages 21/28 and torque numbers hover around 154 ft-lbs at 4000 RPM. The powertrain features variable valve timing. The mid-sized front-wheel drive sedan gets new 17-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires and a tire pressure monitor. Its handling earns praise thanks to the double wishbone front and multilink rear suspension.

Though front passengers get 42.3 inches of legroom, backseat passengers are a bit cramped with only 36.5 inches. Rear seats do split-fold for interior openings into the trunk. Trunk size in the sedan is 15.2 cubic feet, compared to 22 cubic feet in the hatchback. With the seats down, hatchback storage reaches 59 cubic feet. An optional cargo tray and organizer can help streamline storage space. Higher-end features not expected in a base trim include a full power setup, remote entry, and wheel-mounted cruise and audio controls. The CD player can play back MP3s. Intermittent front wipers, six cupholders, a tachometer, a temperature readout, a security system, and two front power outlets round out the entire package.

The 2008 MAZDA6 i Sport performs well in crash tests, receiving four and five stars (side impact and frontal impact, respectively). Dual-stage dual front-side airbags feature passenger deactivation. Side curtain airbags cover both rows. 4-wheel disc and ABS brakes come with electronic brakeforce distribution. Lighting the road are automatic headlights with halogen lamps. Adding options gets you closer to the Value Edition. A 6-CD changer and satellite radio, a sunroof, a compass, a garage remote, and auto-dimming rearview mirrors all cost extra. If you're trying to achieve something a bit flashier, you can also add a rear spoiler, additional chrome accents, and a sport grille.