The 2018 Mazda Atenza (or Mazda6) with the 2.0L Skyactiv-G non-hybrid engine is a compelling mid-size sedan that excels in offering a premium, driver-centric experience across its key attributes.

The Atenza stands out in its class with Mazda's signature KODO – Soul of Motion design language. Its sleek, sculpted lines, coupe-like roofline, and wide stance give it an elegant, sporty, and distinctly upmarket appearance, often compared favorably to luxury European sedans. The 2018 facelift refined this further with a new grille mesh and subtle styling cues, giving the car a mature and cohesive look.

Mazda made significant strides in the 2018 model's cabin, moving it into a near-luxury space. The interior boasts a driver-focused, ergonomic layout with high-quality materials and excellent fit-and-finish. The redesign included a more streamlined dashboard and a focus on reducing Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH), resulting in a noticeably quieter and more sophisticated ride than previous models.

True to Mazda's philosophy of Jinba Ittai (horse and rider as one), the Atenza offers one of the most engaging drives in the mid-size segment. The Skyactiv-Chassis achieves a balance of agility at low speeds and stability at high speeds. This is further enhanced by G-Vectoring Control (GVC), a technology that subtly adjusts engine torque to optimize weight transfer, making steering inputs smoother, more precise, and reducing driver fatigue.

The 2.0L Skyactiv-G engine is a model of engineering efficiency. It uses a high compression ratio and direct injection to deliver a balance of usable power (around 145-165 HP) and good fuel economy, typically averaging over 14 km/L in combined driving. Paired with the responsive 6-speed Skyactiv-Drive automatic transmission, it provides smooth and quick shifts, offering both efficiency and the feel of a more direct connection to the road.

The car is equipped with modern features like the Mazda Connect Infotainment System and dual-zone automatic climate control. it includes an array of advanced i-Activsense safety features, and the sedan offers a practical 474-liter boot, with rear seats that fold down to accommodate larger items.

​Essentially, the 2018 Atenza offers a rare mix of style, luxury, and driver engagement, making it a highly desirable sedan that looks and feels far more expensive than its class suggests.