Mazda6, CX-5 Earn Best-In-Segment Accolades in J.D. Power APEAL Survey

- Mazda6, CX-5 Each Have Two APEAL Segment Wins -

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Jul 23, 2015, 10:00 ET

IRVINE, Calif., July 23, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Both the current-generation midsize Mazda6 sedan and compact CX-5 crossover have won praise throughout the automotive industry for their style, poise, technology and driving dynamics. The barometer for their excellence is also judged by the consumers who purchase and live with the vehicles.

Refreshed 2016 Mazda6 Took Top Segment Honors in J.D. Power APEAL Awards

In that metric, Mazda6 and CX-5 have excelled again, earning J.D. Power's 2015 APEAL award in their respective segments. The APEAL award evaluates vehicles with a thorough survey covering what customers think of their new vehicles after the first 90 days of ownership. This year's award marks Mazda6's second APEAL segment top honor in as many years, while CX-5 won the award in this year and 2013.

"Since going on sale in February, the refreshed 2016 Mazda6 and CX-5 have provided car-shoppers with what were already segment-leading vehicles and improved upon them with new technologies, premium materials and enhanced style," said Jim O'Sullivan, president and CEO, Mazda North American Operations (MNAO). "We're honored that J.D. Power and our customers recognize our relentless efforts, and we look to keep building the best cars and crossovers we can to meet the needs of discerning drivers."

J.D. Power APEAL respondents were asked to rate their vehicles on engine/transmission; ride, handling and braking; comfort/convenience; seats; cockpit/instrument panel; heating, ventilation and cooling; sound system; and styling/exterior.

"Mazda's SKYACTIV Technologies are differentiating themselves in a crowded automotive industry with strong engine performance and refinement, and KODO--Soul of Motion design continues to set a benchmark for curb appeal at any price point," said O'Sullivan.

The 2016 Mazda6 comes powered by a SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter engine that produces 184 horsepower – paired with a standard SKYACTIV-MT six-speed automatic transmission or SKYACTIV-DRIVE six-speed automatic. With its available i-ELOOP energy regenerative capacitor in Grand Touring trim, Mazda6 can achieve an EPA-estimated¹40 mpg highway, which is the best fuel economy number of any non-hybrid, gas-powered midsize sedan. Mazda6's starting MSRP² is $21,495.

The 2016 Mazda CX-5 can be optioned with a standard 155-horsepower, SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter engine with a SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual or an available 184-horsepower SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter engine, mated to a SKYACTIV-DRIVE six-speed automatic transmission. Both drivetrain options can be had with front-wheel drive, while the larger engine can also be equipped with all-wheel drive. The 2016 CX-5 carries a starting MSRP³ of $21,795.

Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, Calif., and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States and Mexico through nearly 700 dealers. Operations in Mexico are managed by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City. For more information on Mazda vehicles, including photography and B-roll, please visit the online Mazda media center at www.mazdausamedia.com.

¹ Fuel economy is estimated by the U.S. EPA. Actual customer mileage will vary.

² MSRP does not include $820 for destination and handling ($865 in Alaska). Dealers set actual prices. MSRP, options and availability subject to change.

³ MSRP does not include $880 for destination and handling ($925 in Alaska). Dealers set actual prices. MSRP, options and availability subject to change.

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SOURCE Mazda North American Operations