2009 Mazda MAZDA6 s Sport

The s trims of the 2009 MAZDA6 feature a more powerful motor, which at 3.7 liters and six cylinders adds more than 100 hp to that of the smaller engine in the i trims (272 compared to 170), but it sacrifices fuel efficiency in the process. Expect 17 mpg in the city and 25 on the highway.

The s Sport is available exclusively with a six-speed automatic transmission, and also comes standard with cruise control, wheel-mounted audio controls, dual exhausts with chrome finishers, 17-inch alloy wheels, and an auxiliary audio input jack. Other than those features, the s Sport's features are similar to those MAZDA offers in the i SV trim, including the same antilock disc brakes, suspension, power mirrors, power doors, power windows, air conditioning, cloth seats, CD player, front and side airbags, as well as tire pressure monitoring.

By Dave D'Onofrio