The 2012 Mazda6 is a terrific entrant in the midsize class, with lots of room and refinement. It is definitely in the mainstream of midsize sedans, yet Mazda has maintained the exceptional driving characteristics for which the brand is well-known, a trait that should prove popular with those who enjoy driving and don't consider a car mere transportation.

NewCarTestDrive.com correspondent G.R. Whale reported from Los Angeles, with Sam Moses reporting from Washington state's Columbia River Gorge, and John F. Katz from south-central Pennsylvania.