Mazda 6 Hatchback (2007 - 2012) 2.2d (163bhp) TS (2010) 5d Owner Review

Bought mine with 50k mileage. The previous owners where pensioners so they did not spec any extra options. No sat nav, Bluetooth or DAB radio. Seats are designed for portly people so not brilliant side bolster support. The 2.2 diesel is strong with a hell of a lot of torque, quick to overtake. Fuel economy is great on the motorway but rubbish around town. The body roll is more then my previous cars and it does feel like a bit of a lump sometimes. Steering is not for those who like light around town driving, it can be a handful when it comes to steering. Gearbox is snappy and decent. Brakes are spot on. Interior space is great and hatch back boot is very good. Overall it has been a decent car but I have felt that the driving experience could be more engaging. The interior is so dark and dull after a while. Why can't the Japanese sort this out, they are great designers with great imagination? Repairs and servicing have felt quite expensive up to now. At +90k the DPF light started flashing, diagnosed the ECU and traced it to a stretched timing chain, only Forscan diagnostics picked this up. I am moving the car on ASAP because this timing chain needs replacing and also the clutch, this combined job will be anywhere from £1500 to £2000 so time to move it on. Will not buy a Mazda again, my sister has a post 2012 Mazda 6 and she too has had some big bills for repairs. If I could travel back in time I would have bought a Honda instead, better built and more engaging.