There’s no doubt about it; the 2012 Mazda MAZDA6 is a flashy, eye-catching piece of machinery. Starting at just $20,480 and available in 7 sharp colors, consumers will definitely want to consider the MAZDA6 for a mid-size sports car. The exterior has dual chrome tipped exhaust pipes, bold and stylish lines that create much greater aerodynamics, LED taillights and bi-xenon headlights. It also has one of the best rear cargo capacities in its class. The side mirrors even have a blind spot warning, which alerts the driver to potential collisions.

On the inside of the cabin, the leather-wrapped steering wheel is equipped with multiple buttons, allowing the driver to adjust cruise control speed, volume and much more. The dual-zone climate control feature allows the driver and front passenger to each have their own “climate.” The comfortable leather seats can easily accommodate up to 5 adult passengers. The 5-inch dash-mounted screen allows the driver to pick from a variety of music on the radio, CD or MP3 player, while providing turn-by-turn GPS navigation. In the backseat, passengers will be very comfortable, with one of the best rear legroom space in its class. The keyless entry and push-start ignition just makes driving this sweet ride that much more fun.

Under the hood, consumers can choose from either a 6-speed manual transmission, 5-speed automatic or 6-speed sport automatic. The 6-speed manual transmission has a 2.5-liter engine with 170 horsepower and the ability to obtain 30 MPG on the highway and 21 MPG in-town. The 5-speed automatic has a 2.5-liter engine, also with 170 horses, but is able to get 31 MPG on the highway and 22 MPG in city limits. For those of us who are more the thrill-seeker type, Mazda has made a sport automatic version, which proudly boasts a 3.7-liter V6 with 272 ponies under the hood and 27 MPG highway and 18 in-town. Mazda recommends filling this vehicle with regular unleaded gasoline, for optimum performance. The 2012 Mazda MAZDA6 also has one of the best turning radius’ in its class, able to complete a turn in 35 feet, 5 inches.

Of course, Mazda also thought to make the MAZDA6 one of the safest cars in its class, with advanced front and side-curtain airbags. The braking system is also highly advanced, with antilock brakes, Brake Assist and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution. The Dynamic Stability Control and Traction Control ensure that the MAZDA6 will be well equipped to handle nearly any road condition Mother Nature should decide to hurl at you. Additionally, the tire pressure monitoring system will ensure that the driver is alerted whenever the tire pressure reaches an undesirable level.

All-in-all, consumers who choose to buy a 2012 Mazda MAZDA6 will likely not be disappointed. The stylish, sporty lines, great fuel economy and high performance all make the MAZDA6 one of the best choices for a cheaper sports car. This elegant, affordable and high-performance sports car is sure to please all who step into here cabin, while dropping the jaws of other drivers on the road – well maybe not quite, but pretty close.