In basic configurations, the Volkswagen Passat will cost 1,329,000 - 2,079,000 rubles. Skoda Superb can be bought for 1,249,000 - 2,416,000 rubles, and Mazda 6 - 1,224,000 - 1,699,600 rubles. In our market, an all-wheel drive system is attached only to Skoda with a minimum price tag of 2,061,000 rubles.

Today we look at three sedans that are firmly entrenched in Russian market and will compete with each other for supremacy in our comparison. The perfect couple would be Skodasuperb andVolkswagenPassat 2016, which not only belong to the same class, but are also built on the same working platform. In addition, they are equipped with identical 1.8-liter turbo engines and automatic transmission DSG. Will be able to dilute the tandem japanese sedan Mazda 6 2016, equipped with a 2.5-liter atmospheric unit with the usual "automatic". Executive Czech sedan habitually strict and rectangular. You can find many similarities with the German Passat, but the latter has, in addition to everything, a double-leaf tailgate. However, the design vwPassat became more stylish, due to a wider grille and a sloping hood.

ForPassat is available with several gasoline 125-180-horsepower turbo units that work with a 6-speed manual gearbox or a 7-speed "robot"DSG model rangeDQ200.

Updating the interior does not conflict with the strict design. The driver's seat received only partial electrical equipment, but for a complete package with ventilation, you need to pay another 50 thousand 740 rubles. Rear sofa better fit for two passengers, as the third will not be too comfortable with a high tunnel and low ceiling.

In general, the interior of the German sedan is not surprising. Already familiar shape, familiar design and excellent ergonomics with matching quality. Of the innovations, it is worth noting a new multimedia panel, as well as expanded air ducts.

Based on the same platform Skodasuperb 2016 has a more modest design and quality. The sedan will not be able to boast of a wide range of options. Although this does not prevent him from remaining as comfortable and practical.

Japanese Salon Mazda 6 is in no way inferior in assembly and quality, but the multimedia complex is a bit disappointing. The front panel is slightly better in feel, which will provide more space and interesting design appliances.

Skoda has more powerful supercharged petrol units of the "four" than the Passat. Their return varies from 125 to 280 hp. The type of transmission is determined by the type of motor.

Salon Superba will remind many of another version - Octavia. The seats are very comfortable and provide good lateral support. By the way, this sedan is best suited for large people. The rear sofa will offer the greatest amount of free space, has an excellent level of comfort and is suitable for 3 passengers.

driving position Mazda 6 located lower than we would like, because of which you have to stretch your legs. The gas pedal is on the floor, the seat has good lateral support, and wheel has a vertical direction. As you can see, quite a sporty option. The view is not the best, due to the littered windshield pillars. Passengers on the back sofa will be a little uncomfortable, as the roof is sloping and can rest on the head of tall people. Of course, you can adjust the backs and add some space, but it was hardly intended. Because riding reclining is not the best idea. However, there is a lot of free legroom.

For potential owners of the Japanese sedan, atmospheric gasoline units with a volume of 2 and 2.5 liters with a capacity of 150 and 192 hp are provided. respectively. The two-liter is available with a manual gearbox, and the other is available exclusively with a 6-speed "automatic".

The front panel is sheathed with material of incomprehensible quality, and plastic is present in almost every detail. The dashboard also transmits information to a small screen similar to the Passat one. Naturally, it is optional. The driver's seat is stiff and has low lumbar support. The rear seats are quite spacious, but there is no separate climate control or curtain airbags.

Updated VolkswagenPassat 2016 will be more favorable to the rear seated passengers. The sofa is more comfortable and wider, there is a separate climate control, there are air curtains, but there is about the same head and legroom. Moreover, you can easily activate the seat heating, unlike the Mazda 6, where the buttons are located on the inside of the armrest. The driver will be more comfortable due to the higher ceiling and easy visibility. Moreover, the German sedan will offer you the possibility of excellent steering and seat adjustment, in which the bottom cushion can be extended.

Most likely, the Japanese sedan will still conquer motorists with its attractive design and good price, but not the level of handling. Moreover, it will be easier to insure it.

The automatic climate control mode of the "six" often blows on the legs, but forgets about the windows. Next to its control button is a selector of engine operating modes, and an electromechanical handbrake and a multimedia complex control panel.

For the Czech sedan, a high level of steering wheel and driver's seat settings were provided. However, the length of the bottom cushion cannot be adjusted, and its back is a little in the way due to its bulge. Landing has an even greater height than in german car. Rear passengers will be very comfortable due to the ability to move front seat with just one button and a huge amount of free space. The sofa itself is very comfortable and has soft headrests. As additional equipment you can order a rear curtain airbag, but the side ones are already included.

During the test drive, the turbo engine of the German sedan showed a fuel consumption of 11.3 l/100 km, and the Czech one - 12.4 l/100 km. The atmospheric unit of the Japanese car "ate" 10.9 l / 100 km.

The Passat is equipped with a heated steering wheel, which you will not find in the Superb and Mazda 6. But in general, the list of available options is not so large, as evidenced by the small plugs at the gearbox. The whole list is "start / stop",ESP plus protective curtain for the rear window.

ride on Skodasuperb 2016 very comfortable, due to the passive chassis and 17-inch wheels. Noise isolation is at a high level, and the suspension allows you to calmly go through any bumps. The only noticeable minus is the high buildup of the body on the track. Buyers in Russia will not be pleased with Monroe electronically controlled shock absorbers, which provide a smoother ride. It's a pity, because the sedan is not so good when cornering: the level of roll is quite high, and steering does not provide a proper response. Nevertheless, the stabilizing system does its job and allows you to freely use high-quality brakes, which, by the way, work at the expense of not the best long-stroke pedal.

The electric power steering is similar to the Passat and provides artificial weighting when cornering. Fortunately, it knows how to properly control it.

Superb is equipped with a heated windshield, but there are no filaments in it. The situation is similar in the Passat. Around the "robot" lever you will find various buttons for controlling driving modes, parking assistant, as well as opening the tailgate. However, the stabilizing system cannot be turned off completely, unlike traction control.

german sedan VolkswagenPassat 2016 has a similar system of passive shock absorbers, but it does its job perfectly without an electronically controlled package. The car is equipped with 17-inch wheels and they serve better than Skoda. Even with a stiffer profile and greater sensitivity to bumps, they are virtually silent and maintain a high level of comfort. Moreover, the German sedan will bring much more driving pleasure. Yes, the steering sometimes goes too far with too much sensitivity, but in general, everything is fine. Minimum roll, responsiveness at a high level, and brake system responds quickly and reliably. What can you say, German quality!

Mazda has the highest noise level when driving. The Skoda is in the middle, while the Passat is the quietest option. To a greater extent, the rumble produced comes from the tire configuration option.

The Superb is equipped with a classic dashboard with conventional indicators, and the multimedia panel is identical to the Passatovsky and costs about 72 thousand rubles. The diagonal is quite large, but the image and responsiveness of the touch screen are not of the best quality. Optional audio systemCanton with good quality for 610 W is available for 28 thousand rubles.

Japanese version updated sedan much better feel for the driver. It will provide the owner with a high level of handling, excellent brakes and a dense suspension. However, such sports equipment not always appropriate. The stabilizing system can be completely disabled, like the German sedan. However, the Mazda 6 allows you to use a skid while letting off the gas. Because of this, smoothness and noise isolation suffer. Therefore, you will have to drive along the road accompanied by constant vibrations and be especially attentive to pits and other irregularities.

Our tested Mazda 6, just like the Superb, could boast of a retention system in the indicated lane. But here's the problem! The Japanese sedan reacts too sharply to errors due to a specific electric amplifier.

The dashboard of a Japanese sedan will be familiar to many, and the multimedia complex pleases with its speed, navigation system and Internet access. The screen is smaller, and the image quality cannot boast of high resolution.

Mazda 6 2016 has less weight than Skodasuperb 2016 for 80 kg. A power point more powerful and productive: 2.5 l / 192 hp / 256 Nm. That is why the car demonstrates the best performance in acceleration: up to 100 km/h in 7.8 seconds. For competitors, these figures stopped at 7.9 s and 8.1 s. Mazda 6 accelerates perfectly and starts to really open up at 3500-6000 rpm. Sport mode only contributes to the aggressive nature of the sedan. Overall, the 6-speed automatic transmission is also quite good and complements the car well.

The base chassis of the Passat has optimal settings, along with adaptive dampersDCC, which can be purchased for 34,120 rubles. It is worth noting the optional function of simulating differential lockXDS, which costs 11 thousand and will provide significant assistance in the corners.

The dashboard has a virtual concept and a diagonal of 12 inches. An 8-inch touch screen will be available on the top-of-the-line Passat. Moreover, only this sedan will offer a surround view camera, and the multimedia complex supports synchronization with smartphones, thanks toMirrorlink and alsoWi-fi. The same system is installed in Superb.

The power of the Czech and German sedans is 180 hp, which makes them the quietest in comparison. However, the preselective transmission is much faster than the Japanese "automatic". The start of the movement has a second delay, but then everything goes like clockwork. Moreover, the Passat will be faster than the Superb, as well as in acceleration from a standstill. This is evidenced by the passport data. Such results are due to the greater focus of the Czech sedan on a high level of comfort than in other models.

The optics of the Passat and Mazda 6 are made using adaptive LEDs, and the Skoda is made using bi-xenon lamps. Naturally, this equipment is offered for an additional fee. The rear optics are standard LED.

Wheels of various diameters are also optional: Passat and Superb are equipped with 17-inch wheels, and Mazda 6 - 19-inch ones. Only the Passat has special impenetrable tires.

The robotic gearbox of the German sedan is in practice much more nimble than that of competitors. A sports mode allows you to withstand a certain gear longer. The Czech sedan has a smoother gearbox, but some jolts are noticeable in city traffic. Both cars have a problem with driving uphill, when the vibration is transferred to the inside of the cabin. The Japanese sedan does not have this problem.

Skoda will offer the most voluminous trunk: 625-1760 liters with various hooks, nets, partitions and lights. The automatic door can open up to 1868 mm in height. The German sedan has 586 liters of volume, but will provide the owner with the same level of comfort. Mazda 6 has the smallest trunk of 438 liters, and only a moderate loading height and the ability to fold the rear seat backs can be distinguished from the advantages. In addition, Mazda only holds a stowage under the floor, unlike competitors with a full-size wheel.

The Passat's sales index is 1208 models. Superb was sold in the amount of 639 liters, and Mazda 6 - 6895 models, which is the highest figure in Russia among these models.

Turbo engines with direct injection and robotic boxes DQ200 gears along with a dry clutch may cause some distrust on the part of buyers. After all, their lifespan is, nevertheless, under some doubt. Nevertheless, this configuration of the Passat and Superba is perfect for solving many problems and provides a high level of comfort. If we compare cars purely by these qualities, then the Japanese Mazda 6 sedan will yield to its competitors. But he is the only one who can aggressively move and "fire". So, here the personal preferences of each motorist already come into force. A business sedan is a Passat or Superb, and sport car for the soul - this is the Mazda 6. The choice is yours!

The passport

Model	Volkswagen Passat 1.8TSI	Skoda Superb 1.8TSI	Mazda 6 2.5
Body
body type	sedan	liftback	sedan
Number of doors/seats	4/5	5/5	4/5
Length, mm	4767	4861	4870
Width, mm	1832	1864	1840
Height, mm	1456	1468	1451
Wheel base, mm	2791	2841	2830
Track front / rear, mm	1584/1568	1584/1572	1595/1585
Curb weight, kg	1480	1485	1400
Gross weight, kg	2030	2030	2000
Trunk volume, l	586	625–1761	429
Engine
A type		petrol with direct injection fuel and turbo	gasoline direct injection
Location	front, transverse	front, transverse	front, transverse
Number and arrangement of cylinders	4, in a row	4, in a row	4, in a row
Number of valves	16	16	16
Working volume, cm³	1798	1798	2488
Max. power, hp/r/min	180/5100−6200	180/5100–6200	192/5700
Max. torque, N m/r/min	250/1250−5000	250/1250–5000	256/3250
Transmission
Transmission		robotic, seven-speed	automatic, six-speed
Drive unit	front	front	front
Chassis
Front suspension		independent, spring, McPherson	independent, spring, McPherson
Rear suspension		independent, spring, multi-link	independent, spring, multi-link
Front brakes	disc ventilated	disc ventilated	disc, ventilated
Rear brakes	disk	disk	disk
Tires	215/55 R17	215/55 R17	225/45 R19
Ground clearance, mm	160	149	165
Performance characteristics
Maximum speed, km/h	232	232	223
Acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h, s	7,9	8,1	7,8
Fuel consumption, l/100 km
- urban cycle	7,1	7,1	8,7
- suburban cycle	5,0	5,0	5,2
- mixed cycle	5,8	5,8	6,5
Toxicity rate	Euro 5	Euro 6	Euro 4
Fuel tank capacity, l	66	66	62
Fuel	AI-95	AI-95	AI-95

Complete set

Basic equipment	Volkswagen Passat 1.8 TSI Comfortline	Skoda Superb 1.8 TSI Ambition	Mazda 6 2.5 Active
Front airbags	+	+	+
Side airbags	+	+	+
Inflatable "curtains"	+	+	+
Fastening child seat Isofix	+	+	+
Dynamic stabilization system	+	+	+
Tire pressure sensor	+	+	+
Dual zone climate control	+	+	+
Heated windshield	+	–	–
Heated front seats	+	+	+
Light sensor	+	+	+
Rain sensor	+	+	+
Heated washer nozzles	–	+	–
Steering column with tilt and reach adjustment	+	+	+
Heated and electrically adjustable outside rear-view mirrors	–	+	–
Electrochromic outside rear view mirror on the driver's side	+	–	–
Heated exterior mirrors, electrically adjustable and auto-folding	+	–	+
Electrochromic interior mirror	+	–	+
Multifunction steering wheel	+	+	+
Leather steering wheel	+	+	+
Heated steering wheel	+	–	–
On-board computer	+	+	+
Cruise control		–	+
CD player with MP3 support	+	+	+
USB input	+	+	+
Integrated Bluetooth hands free system	+	+	+
Immobilizer	+	+	+
LED low beam headlights high beam	+	–	–
Fog lights	+	+	+
rear parking sensors	–	+	–
Parking sensors front and rear	+	–	–
Electromechanical parking brake	+	–	+
Alloy wheels	+	+	+
Additional Volkswagen equipment Passat
Highline version	280 000
- virtual dashboard
- navigation system
- Mirrorlink support
- trunk lid servo
- comfortable front seats
- Upholstery in leather and Alcantara
- three-zone climate control
- Rear View Camera
Comfort package	52 650
- Cruise control
- contour lighting in the cabin
- heated rear seats
- sunblind on rear window with electric drive
- heated washer nozzles
- 230 V socket at the rear of the center console
Advanced Security Package	15 760
- side airbags for second row passengers
metallic color	23 780
Upgraded Nappa leather front seats with partially power driver's seat	38 260
Surround cameras	49 820
wood finish	5320
Adaptive LED headlights	29 170
Dynaudio audio system with 11 speakers and subwoofer	63 270
Electronic simulated differential lock	11 030
Anti-theft alarm	17 320
Additional equipment Skoda Superb
Style		187 000
- electrochromic interior mirror
- driver's knee airbag
- adaptive bi-xenon headlights
- heated rear seats
- light alloy wheels with a diameter of 17 inches
- plastic clips in the trunk
- removable flashlight in the trunk
Power front seats with memory function at the driver's seat		20 500
Driving Mode Selection System		5400
Three-zone climate control		13 400
Luke		49 800
Parking heater with remote control		48 800
Keyless Entry System		20 100
Anti-theft alarm		14 800
Functional package for rear passengers (tablet holder, two USB inputs, 230V socket)		15 200
Heated windshield		14 300
Leather trim		77 400
Control system high beam, Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Assist		51 500
Contour interior lighting		8000
Parking sensors front and rear plus automatic parking system		16 700
Canton audio system with 11 speakers and subwoofer		27 700
Multimedia complex Columbus with navigation		72 600
Internet access via Wi-Fi		12 000
Power front passenger seat on the rear passenger side		2700
A set of nets in the trunk		2800
Adaptive cruise control		19 100
Rear wiper		4200
Rear View Camera		19 100
Trunk lid servo		22 100
Sunblinds on the rear side windows		14 400
metallic color		23 700
Additional equipment Mazda 6
Supreme Plus version			235 600
- leather upholstery of seats and interior door panels
- heated rear seats
- keyless entry system
- electrically adjustable driver's seat
- driver's seat position memory
- projector readings on windshield
- parking sensors front and rear
- Rear View Camera
- adaptive LED headlights
- light alloy wheels with a diameter of 19 inches
Package 4			181 400
- electric sunshade on the rear window
- hatch
- blind spot monitoring system
- lane departure warning system
- system automatic braking in front of an obstacle
- 11-speaker Bose audio system
- automatic switching of high beam headlights to low beam
- navigation system
metallic color			16 500
Model	Volkswagen Passat	Skoda Superb	Mazda 6
The price of the basic configuration with this engine, rubles	1 799 000	1 632 000	1 464 000
The price of the tested car, rubles	2 385 380	2 395 300	1 897 500

Skoda Superb of the new generation has noticeably added status and comfort. As rivals, we picked up the complete opposite - the Mazda 6 sports sedan. Let's see who will come out of this comparison as the winner

Design Czech car impresses with angular, “faceted” surfaces, and its headlights are shaped like diamonds. The car looks solid, impressive and expensive. In a word, Skoda Superb is seriousness itself. And this is not a sedan, as it might seem, but a hatchback - its trunk opens along with the glass. Mazda 6 is completely different: swift, feminine, graceful lines make you admire its every curve. If Superb evokes associations with men, then the “six” is definitely “she”.

Skoda is offered in many modifications. So, the same 1.4-liter gasoline turbo engine installed on this car can develop 125 or 150 hp. The 1.8-liter turbocharged unit produces 180 hp. and a 2-liter supercharged engine develops 220 or 280 hp. (depending on the version). Gearboxes - mechanical or "robots" with two clutches. Only “mechanics” are installed on the 125-strong modification, and all 2-liter cars are equipped exclusively with a “robot”. The price range for initial configurations, depending on the motors, is from 1,249,000 to 2,171,000 rubles.

Choosing among the modifications of the Mazda 6 is much easier. There are only two gasoline atmospheric engines: 2 and 2.5 liters with a capacity of 150 and 192 hp. The "younger" version can be equipped with both mechanical and automatic transmissions, for a more powerful modification, only an "automatic" is offered. The option with a 2-liter power unit is offered from 1,224,000 rubles, and the 2.5-liter version can be purchased for at least 1,464,000 rubles.

We took for the test the closest options in terms of power and gearboxes. Mazda 6 is equipped with a 192-horsepower engine, and under the hood of the Skoda Superb, a 180-horsepower engine, aggregated with robotic transmission. In this configuration, the "Czech" is estimated at a minimum of 1,632,000 rubles, which is 168,000 more expensive than the "Japanese".

For driver and passengers

Skoda interior, like external design, looks strict and serious. And, as is usually the case with Volkswagen products, it is perceived so organically, as if you have been driving this car for many years. All buttons and controls can be found literally blindly. There is a chic central armrest, adjustable in height. Ergonomics are perfect, and the quality of finishing materials is beyond praise. True, you come home in the evening and cannot remember what the interior of the car looks like ... Such is interesting feature.

The interior of the Mazda 6, on the other hand, is very memorable. At the same time, in terms of ergonomics, the Japanese sedan is practically not inferior to the Czech competitor. Unless the graphics on the central monitor are not so clear, and the windshield projector, made in the form of a retractable screen, glares in the sun, which makes it difficult to read the readings. Interestingly, the touch monitor stops responding to touch at speeds above 8 km / h - for safety. While driving, it is more convenient to use the joystick on the central tunnel, and this is a very smart decision, which, apart from Mazda, has not yet been implemented by any automaker.

According to the landing geometry, we put an equal sign. In both cars you can get with all the amenities. Only in the Japanese sedan, the driver sits noticeably lower - in a sporty way. But in Superb, the landing is more “civilian”. Thanks to this, visibility in the Czech hatchback is a little better. However, in this parameter, both opponents are on top. In Mazda, the “driver's” mood is enhanced by a hard padding of the seat, while Skoda, on the contrary, has a soft chair that evokes a “homely” feeling.

The second row in the Mazda is quite spacious for a business sedan, a dense and deep sofa is perfectly molded, there is enough space in front of the knees and above the head. There is heated rear seats, as well as a comfortable center armrest with cup holders. In a word, everything is excellent. You think so, however, until you find yourself on the second row of a Czech car.

That's where the real space is! And not even at the business class level, but against the background of executive sedans. A person of average height here can almost stretch his legs! And there is more space above the head than the opponent. The sofa is no less comfortable in shape, but its padding is softer, which makes it more comfortable to sit. In addition to the center armrest with cup holders, second-row passengers are offered retractable curtains on the side windows and their own climate control system. In general, in the Skoda Superb you can travel with almost executive comfort.

The luggage compartment of the hatchback is simply immense! And this despite the fact that under his floor is a full-fledged spare wheel, while "Japanese" offers only "dokatka". Because of this “dokatka”, Mazda has a very high floor. On the other hand, due to the high floor, when unfolding the rear sofa in the Japanese sedan, an absolutely flat platform is formed, while Skoda has a rather high step. But in general, the trunk of the Czech model in this class is beyond competition. And there is also ... a flashlight. And on inside There is a branded Škodovsky scraper with a magnifying glass on the gas tank flap. I wonder if anyone uses it as a magnifying glass?

Potential difference

What do you think is better - a volumetric naturally aspirated engine or a small displacement turbocharged unit, if they produce identical power and torque? According to the test results, we vote for the Mazda 6 naturally aspirated power unit. Because it is distinguished by linear reactions to pressing the accelerator pedal, while the reactions to the “gas” of the Czech rival are slightly less adequate. In addition, at low speeds, Skoda has a noticeable turbo pause. And Mazda's engine sound is more groovy. Although the Superb's powertrain is noticeably quieter.

Now let's compare the good old "automatic" and fashionable robotic transmission with two clutches. And here we again choose Mazda with its traditional fluid mechanics. Maybe its "automatic" with active driving is a little less quick, but unlike its rival, it allows you to "crawl" without jerks in traffic jams and works logically in other modes. And the "robot" at Skoda behaves nervously in traffic jams and periodically frankly "stupid" when trying to accelerate sharply, especially from low speeds. You leave, for example, for a circle, you see that you have time to drive, you press the "gas", and in response - silence. And it lasts for two seconds. And suddenly the car starts abruptly, when it's too late ... And this "bug" is not treated even by the "sports" mode, it's just that the transmission protects the clutch in this way.

The steering of the Japanese sedan is very light at low speed. In combination with rather “sharp” settings (2.6 turns from lock to lock), the car feels very maneuverable and nimble. With increasing speed, the steering wheel becomes noticeably heavier, which improves the stability of movement. On the autobahn directional stability at altitude, and on a winding country road, Mazda urges the driver to go through the corner at the limit of tire grip. The understeer of the car is almost neutral, there are almost no rolls, and the sedan responds quickly and accurately to the driver's control actions. In a word, a real driver's car.

A competitor from the Czech Republic is the complete opposite. Its steering isn't as "sharp" (2.75 turns lock-to-lock) and the return action is richer at low speed and not as heavy at high speed, making it feel completely natural. Control responses are timely, precise and smooth at the same time. In general, the steering of Skoda could be the standard, if it were not for the flaw that is typical for this platform once again. Volkswagen Group. It is about the behavior of the car in a rut. The fact is that Superb begins to slowly "blab", and at the same time there is no information on the steering wheel at all. As a result, there is a feeling that the steering wheel is torn off from the wheels. Of course, you can get used to this, but this does not add confidence to the driver. Otherwise, there are no complaints about handling. The car is not so assembled against the background of the Japanese rival and its rolls are higher, but its behavior in turns is “academically” correct, as befits the representatives of the German concern.

In addition, Skoda wins back in terms of comfort. Both in terms of ride and noise isolation, Superb claims to be the leader in the class. He simply does not notice the microprofile and small bumps in the road, and on large potholes the driver and passengers feel only soft, elastic shocks. The feeling is that on the streets of Moscow, the road builders suddenly laid fresh asphalt everywhere. We change to the back seats - and here it is even softer! Usually the second row ride is worse than the front, like the Mazda 6, for example, but the Superb is a welcome exception. And the sound insulation is close to ideal: the tires and the wind are muffled so that you simply don’t notice them, and the engine is almost inaudible.

Against the background of the Czech hatchback, the "Japanese" is noisy. Tires are humming, the engine is loudly “voicing”. But this does not cause problems, because it should be so on a car with sports habits. And the dense suspension, which feels the “pimples” of the asphalt and reacts harshly to potholes, is “clamped” exactly to such an extent that no one in the cabin feels discomfort. With energy intensity, Mazda is also all right.

Carl Gustav Jung, the founder of analytical psychology, divided everyone into extroverts and introverts. And people, in accordance with their psychotype, need different cars. So, Mazda 6 is a car for an extrovert, a sociable and energetic person. But the Skoda Superb, on the contrary, will appeal to an introvert who prefers peace and solitude. As for who to award the victory to, we found ourselves in difficulty. Because the "Czech", despite the overwhelming advantage in terms of spaciousness and comfort, did not show itself perfectly in the engine-transmission combination, and we have questions about the steering. At the same time, the Japanese sedan lost in some respects to its rival, but on the whole it performed smoothly - we could not find any obvious shortcomings in it. So you should choose based on personal preferences and the tasks that you set for yourself when purchasing such a machine.

Technical Mazda specifications 6
Dimensions, mm	4870x1840x1450
Wheel base, mm
Turning diameter, m
Clearance, mm
Trunk volume, l
Curb weight, kg
engine's type	L4 petrol
Working volume, cu. cm

As the classic said: everything is known in comparison. Indeed, a key feature of a mature personality is responsibility for one's choice.

That is why, we are aware that the choice of the leader of our trinity (Superb, Mazda6 or Camry) is yours, and ultimately it is up to you to decide which of them you will give preference to. With this article, we just want to provide you with the facts for reasoning in the course of making a decision on choosing a winner.

So, which car should you choose: Mazda6, Toyota Camry or Skoda Superb 3?

You can spend hours developing an algorithm for choosing the right car for you. Without going into a long, all-consuming and tedious description of the technical data sheets of each of the contenders, we will try to draw your attention to those aspects that can be really important in your choice.

Car cost

Let's start with the price. Well, why else? After all, we are pragmatic people, and we live in a time when this is far from the last question. Besides, exactly price policy that, not least, decides why these machines are worth comparing at all.

If you are one of those lucky ones for whom the price does not matter, you can skip this paragraph. Well, if this is not the case, then it will be useful for you to find out the prices from the official representatives of Toyota, Mazda and Skoda in Russia.

Prices for minimum configurations

• For Mazda6 you will have to pay from 1,199,000 rubles;
• Price tag for Toyota Camry from 1,284,000 rubles;
• Per new Skoda Superb 3 ask from 1,249,000 rubles.

Price tags for similar configuration options

If you choose more or less similar equipment for technical specifications, then new Superb it will certainly be more expensive (about 200-400,000 rubles and more).

Comparing the appearance of competitors

As they say, people are greeted by their clothes. Well, in the context of our conversation, we can rephrase: the first opinion about a man is formed not only by his shoes, but also by how his “iron lady” looks.

If we talk about cars, then they are also met, the first impression is also formed about them. By design.

Toyota Camry design

Appearance Toyota Camry

Toyota has secured a strong image of reliability, which outwardly manifests itself in conciseness, restraint, representativeness. Though new model boasts a more expressive grille, elegant head optics with LED daytime running lights, stylish alloy rims, nevertheless, it remained "recognizable" and very predictable. Unlike her competitors. And the new Mazda and Skoda are a pleasant surprise. But each in its own way. It's hard to give preference to anyone.

Appearance Mazda6

Mazda 6 exterior.

New Mazda 6 - really beautiful car. By the way, it must be said that she received recognition in the form of the Red Dot Design Award for her design. And this despite the fact that more than 4,500 works from different manufacturers fought for this title.

According to the engineers themselves, in the exterior this car is the very embodiment of movement in metal. Mazda 6 new generation is very elegant, dynamic and at the same time the most sporty among its competitors. When you look at this car, you want to own it. She can awaken in you an unimaginable desire. It's a paradox, but the beauty is also reinforced by achievements in aerodynamics, the performance of which exceeds the "Toyota" and "Superbovskie".

Exterior of Skoda Superb 3rd generation

The design of the new Superba.

But, if Mazda6 was attractive before, then the new 3rd generation Skoda Superb in its evolution, perhaps, surprises the most in this trio of “horses”. Previously, she was scolded for her overall size, disproportion and unpretentiousness. Even its creators agreed with the lack of harmony in the overall silhouette of the car. But I would like to see those who today could so unequivocally say again about the new superba.

The new design is a bold palette of the age-old yin and yang, shadows and lights that are embodied in all the curves and lines. The image of the new model is really bright, embossed, bewitching.

Conclusions about appearance: What can you say? If we are to choose judging by appearance, then we still would prefer Superba.

Perhaps this is subjective, but this car combines pathos, a bright presentation and at the same time versatility. On the new Skoda You can come to Superb both for a business meeting, and go on a trip with the whole family, or you can “turn on the heat” in the evening, after work. The rest of the applicants are more “sharpened” for business (Camry) or sports (Mazda6) designs.

Let's see the cars from the inside

Toyota interior

Torpedo Camry.

When you sit on driver's seat new Camry, you experience a very familiar, even native feeling. It's like you've already ridden thousands of kilometers on it; 8 seat settings immediately allow you to feel what is called at ease. But for those who love novelty there will be some disappointment - everything here is familiar and recognizable.

Mazda6 interior

Torpedo Mazda6.

Interior design new Mazda not many inferior to the representatives of the business class. original design, excellent and quality materials together with modern control systems (including multimedia MZD Connect) make your stay inside really comfortable and enjoyable.

Skoda Superb interior

driving position

Torpedo Skoda Superb.

Let's talk about Skoda. The driver's seat is harsh, but very comfortable, electrically adjustable in all directions. The steering wheel is quite comfortable to hold in your hands, besides, there are even paddle shifters (depending on the configuration). A small but nice bonus is the armrest, which slides out very comfortably and doesn't let your arm hang down.

Possible disadvantage interior decoration black glossy panels may appear. You can clearly see dust and fingerprints on them.

Salon "Czech" - a clear leader in interior space

Huge legroom for rear passengers.

Among our three test subjects, the Superb is the most spacious car. She is even jokingly equated with a limousine. Indeed, when you sit in the back seat, neither Toyota nor Mazda give you such space as the Skoda Superb. In second place in terms of spaciousness (back row) is Mazda.

Additional options for the convenience of passengers

In addition, I want to talk about practicality. It is Skoda that has a set of not superfluous functions at all: it has a Wi-fi access point, a convenient holder for a tablet, so that passengers have something to do, a burden for mobile phone, which also enhances mobile communication, a glove compartment with a cooling function. The door has a special compartment for a wet umbrella, in which water flows out. Agree - comfortable.

Luggage capacity

Mazda trunk

The luggage compartment at Mazda is the smallest of the cars we are considering, only 438 liters. But in general, its design is convenient and practical, as for a sedan.

Trunk Camry

Trunk volume is 506 liters, but its geometry leaves much to be desired. It will not be convenient to put bulky goods in such a trunk. And small things - they strive to fly away to the farthest part luggage compartment closer to the rear seats.

Trunk Superb 3

And of course, when we talk about the practicality of the luggage department, we immediately remember Skoda. All models of this automaker are famous for simply phenomenal performance, the 2015 Superb was no exception. In the battle of Mazda, Toyota and Skoda, he not only wins, but “makes” his opponents by knockout. Trunk volume - 625 liters, and when folded back row seats 1760 liters. It is also worth noting that this car is produced in a liftback body, which significantly increases the possibilities for transporting bulky goods, due to the fact that the trunk opens along with the rear window.

Results about the interior and functional content: confidently leading the Czech auto industry.

Vehicle clearance

Mazda 6 owns important advantage ahead of competitors - the biggest ground clearance- 165 mm, which is very good for our roads. After comes Skoda with 164 mm, and Camry closes the top three - 160 mm.

Compare engines

At Mazda, the engine range is represented only by gasoline engines with a displacement of 2 (150 hp) to 2.5 (192 hp).

Toyota in the Russian market is sold with 3 options gasoline engines. Volume 2 (150 hp), 2.5 (181 hp) and 3.5 liters (249 hp).

Skoda Superb 3 engines 1.4 (125-150 hp), 1.8 (180 hp) and 2 liters (220-280 hp) - 160 hp But thanks to the turbine, the superb is in no way inferior in acceleration, and even with its characteristics, it “makes” both Toyota and Mazda.

Fuel consumption

Toyota has the biggest fuel tank, it's not easy. After all, it is inferior to its competitors in economy. And Superb wins in this nomination - which, according to official data, consumes in the combined cycle from 5.4 liters per 100 km. And although this is good roads and on European fuel, it is still less than that of competitors (6 - Mazda and 7.2 - Toyota).

Let's sum up our comparative tests

You could look at a lot more, but I suspect that you are pretty tired. We hope that the information provided is enough to bet on one of the three.

Winner

Our choice is the Skoda Superb.

It is he who breathes novelty, is outwardly attractive, and technically is not inferior, but even outperforms the presented competitors. In addition, the car is very practical and economical. The only important disadvantage is the acquisition cost, which is higher than that of Mazda and Toyota.

But, as promised, the final choice is yours.

The Mazda 6 has too many buttons and knobs. The amount of information that the driver receives is also redundant: there are three dials on the dashboard, with the third reflecting only the operation of the i-Eloop energy regeneration system. In this regard, Skoda is a supporter of greater simplicity.

The length difference is 2 cm, the height difference is 3 cm, and wheelbases only a centimeter apart. Don't say anything Skoda dimensions Superb and Mazda6 are almost the same. But the fundamental difference between the two models is immediately noticeable. The "Japanese" looks sporty: a long hood, dynamic curves of body lines, huge 19-inch wheels, narrow windows. Czech designers have made a traditional choice: strict forms, "ordinary" 17-inch wheels, all attention to the interior space. They seem not so much competitors as representatives of two different schools. After all, it is known that some people think that the station wagon should look sporty, others are sure: family car such impressive dimensions rather befits fashionable chic.

The new Superb differs little from its predecessor, which appeared four years ago, by and large, little has changed in the appearance of the model: the grille, headlights, and some other details.

Of course, updates were also made to the equipment list: they added, for example, a start-stop and a braking energy recovery system, but - probably in order not to give rise to internal competition with the German "relatives" VW and Audi - up to active cruise control, radar, automatic braking systems and lane departure warning, things did not come. But for the Mazda6, all of the above is available.

Hereby plus Skoda always been spacious salon. When you open the doors of the second row, it seems that something is missing, the distance from the front backs to the sofa is so great. Sitting in the back, you can, as in a limousine, freely stretch your legs, put your hand on the central armrest. On the console between the backs of the front seats - a digital clock and a pointer outdoor temperature, on racks - climate control deflectors.

You can’t say the same about the sofa of the Japanese station wagon. It’s not very convenient for a lanky person there: you don’t touch the ceiling with your head, but you secretly want to raise him by two or three centimeters. One would think that since the space is distributed so unequally, Mazda has a larger compartment behind the backs of the rear sofa. Far from it. The trunk is another trump card of the Superb: large, with a great finish (upholstered in needle-punched fabric). Despite the presence of a spare wheel under the floor (Mazda6 is equipped only with a set for a quick tire repair), the volume turned out to be a record. How did it happen? It's simple: the Superb saves space up front, and the Mazda has a bigger engine, so it's got a long hood like a coupe.

Last year, a front-wheel drive Skoda Superb with a 2.0-liter 220-horsepower engine from Audi (CHHB index) was purchased by 162 people, of whom 119 chose, as expected, the basic version of Ambition for 2.2 million rubles. Not too popular version? Yes, and we took her to comparative test simply because even before the first driving Russian presentation of the restyled Mazda6, a sample of the “six” with a 2.5-liter turbo engine fell into our hands, and Skoda, by nominal characteristics, turned out to be the first suitable car for comparison. However, as it turned out, there is no better sparring partner for Mazda6 in Russia now.

The turbocharged "six" with a new appearance for our market went on sale at the end of last year. The car immediately showed its potential, leaving no doubt that in the first quarter of 2019 it will beat the competing Czech version. It is unlikely that Skoda will be very upset, because the Czech sedan is imported into our country, its margin is high, and the last place in the brand’s sales structure is predetermined: all other Skodas presented in Russia are also assembled here (some rare modifications, like Laurin & Klement , does not count).

At the same time, questions like “why it’s possible to assemble Superb in Kazakhstan, but not here” have no basis, since our southern neighbor is assembling according to a screwdriver cycle, which we just don’t need - the state has long been behind it does not provide benefits. But what about the Mazda6, which is also assembled with a “screwdriver” in the Far East? Yes, there is such a thing, but the local Mazda Sollers plant does not benefit from the automobile assembly at all, although the enterprise also has obligations to deepen it, but from the assembly of engines, which will be finally adjusted only to.

These two sedans on the Russian market have completely different paths and paths. Skoda has always tried to present the widest possible range of Superba versions - they say, we don’t slurp cabbage soup, one foot is already in premium. Mazda, on the contrary, not being able to compete with a member of the VW family in terms of the breadth of performance, offered the minimum that guarantees the high interest of our buyer.

Three weeks ago, I drove on the route Vladivostok - Nakhodka Andrey Glazkov, director of the Russian representative office of Mazda for marketing. Andrew was sitting on back seat and commented on the work for an hour and a half rear suspension(the roads are not Moscow ones!), but in the meantime I asked why the same Superba in Russia has a version with all-wheel drive, and the Mazda6, available in Europe with all the leading ones in a two-volume body, is not for sale with us. The only argument of the chief marketer is the specific attitude of Russians towards diesel engines: the Mazda6 4WD comes with a heavy-fuel engine. “Remember our failure with diesels on the CX-5? We won't try again."

What is true is true - sales of diesel CX-5s were tiny, no more than half a percent of total sales. However, the diesel engine, despite the complexity of the design (adjusting the valve lift height on the exhaust shaft, piezo injectors) did not give the expected efficiency. Here the question is different: is it needed now at all on D-class sedans, and even those designed on trolleys with a transverse arrangement power unit, four-wheel drive?

Winter is the driver, triumphant ...

Our comparative test fell on the snowiest time of this Moscow winter, so both participants had the opportunity to answer this question. Most clearly, I would even say, categorically, without doubt in her voice and hesitation, Skoda announced the verdict: “No, it’s not needed.”

Frankly, I do not remember such snow-covered Moscow roads as they were in late January - early February. Usually there was a lot of snow in the narrow central lanes and courtyards, but here, despite the painful efforts of public utilities, all the big city highways were covered in snow.

The authorities strongly recommended not to get behind the wheel, but I got into a Skoda and drove - at first slowly, then faster and more recklessly, and then completely forgot that under the wheels there was a mosaic of densely rolled snow and icy asphalt. The clutch under the wheels changed ten times per second, I maneuvered - somewhere smoothly, somewhere abruptly, but the car practically did not move off course. The electronics, of course, worked continuously, especially the system for simulating differential locking by brake mechanisms, but without clicks, rattles and sudden strangulation of the motor. Only in extreme cases - with a strong "torsion" of the steering wheel - the supply of traction to the wheels slightly weakened, but immediately returned to the norm set by the gas pedal.

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I just wanted to exclaim: “what technology has come to!”. Frankly, I don’t remember that the rescue electronics of a car in the middle price segment worked, on the one hand, so delicately and imperceptibly, on the other hand, effectively. True, looking at the price of our test copy, the word "budget" comes to mind last.

The exact, but, for my taste, very light steering wheel, tenacious brakes of rather high sensitivity and suspension contribute to the sum of impressions. I will dwell on this point in more detail. With active maneuvering, elastic elements prevent strong body rolls, which, together with a light steering wheel, at first misleads a driver, especially an inexperienced one: an illusion arises that the Superb is a small, highly maneuverable car that easily rebuilds, takes sharp turns, instantly accelerates and slows down. No, this is not quite true, although the same powerful engine, which even in Comfort mode gives an excellent start, and on the track shows confident opportunities for gaining momentum when driving from stationary modes, also plays into this illusion.

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Still, Superb is not a compact class, but a relatively heavy, inertial car. To see this, take a ride on the "popular" version of the Superba with an "inflated" small-capacity TSI under the hood.

Actually, what is this remark for? Moreover, the agility of such a car turns into a solid fuel consumption: dynamic driving around a city littered with snow will cost 17 l / 100 km and more, and a light steering wheel can so weaken the driver’s vigilance that at one fine moment he simply won’t catch the first symptoms electronics losing its vigilance. On the other hand, such a bust with snow on the road is still extreme situation. You just need to slow down on the gas and not so violently turn the steering wheel.

In limbo

The suspension of the Superba, although not stiff, feels uncomfortable at our joints - and the passengers of the sedan along with it. With a deaf "thumbling" on the rebound, pits and single transverse obstacles are overcome. However, you can add comfort again by reducing the speed. Meanwhile, the question arises: what to pay for? For confident driving on dry roads? Yes, Superba's electronics cope with bad weather better than many, but still they ask for almost three million rubles for our test version, and this is not the best expensive equipment! Maybe it's stupid to take the Audi A4? There, at least, for the "three-ruble note" and all-wheel drive, and the motor is more powerful.

As for the Mazda6, we talked in detail about the metamorphoses of its suspension in the restyled version in the first test drive, however, it took place on dry and very bad roads between Vladivostok and Nakhodka - two obese passengers in the back seat in my car groaned, sighed and asked to slow down from 90 km/h to 70… I wonder what they would say after riding that route in a Superb…

In Moscow, the “six” felt much better than in its native Far East, demonstrating both a higher ride smoothness than when driving on warped asphalt, and better stability. Meanwhile, it is Superbu, and not Mazda, who succeeds very well with the effect of the “flying carpet” - that is, the immobility of the body while driving, but engineers cannot yet combine it with smooth working out of passing obstacles. Yes, Skoda is not premium yet!

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The main difference between the Mazda6 suspension and the Skodov one is the presence of a noticeable first vertical oscillation when crossing an obstacle with two wheels. It is this that gives the feeling of swaying, amplitude. Not to say that this caused any particular discomfort if the body did not tilt at the top point - either relative to the longitudinal axis when the car moves in a straight line, or across - in a turn. In general, if we talk about the ideal suspension, then probably it should be a little softer than the Superb, work out the joints, but also not allow the car to make such vibrations as in the Mazda. It is interesting that this “oscillatory” feature appeared in the “Japanese” precisely with restyling: for some reason, its suspension was made softer. These are not our fantasies - the “softening” of the elastic elements was officially confirmed to us by Mitsuru Wakiye, Mazda Development Program Manager.

As for the behavior on snowy ground, here the “Japanese” is inferior to its European classmate in the sense that it starts to carry it much earlier, and the electronics are no longer so sterile, although they do not allow the critical threshold to be exceeded. In any case, the “Mazdovskiy” chassis with new “restyling” settings, which deserved a fair dose of criticism from fellow journalists on the first test, looks like a product of sorting out options, and not like an optimal solution.

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Actually, installing new springs, shock absorbers and stabilizer bushings is not a cat that sneezed you. Such a radical shake-up is usually not accompanied by a facelift. It is not clear what caused these changes, but the Japanese failed to achieve a radical improvement in the characteristics of the suspension.

Application of force

Both machines have automatic boxes with an outdated number of steps today - 6. At Skoda, this is partly due to the high output of the motor: it is its moment (350 Nm) that can digest the FD6D9011 of the DQ250 (02E) series with two wet clutches. In terms of smoothness of operation, it practically approached the classical "hydromechanics" - at least it does not cause any obvious inconvenience to the driver.

Salon Skoda Superb

Another thing is that I would like - since we are talking about such an expensive car as the Superb - to get at least the opportunity to fully manual control. Here, even in the sporty and nominally “manual” (M - Manual) mode, the electronics, barely holding the speed near the red zone, resets the stage and does not allow the motor to “turn”. Such “fool protection” along with non-switchable ESP is not serious.

However, the Japanese classic unit on Mazda, along with the basic one, gives only one sports mode, when selected, the response of the engine to the movement of the gas pedal only slightly improves, and the gears are switched at a slightly higher speed.

Salon Mazda6

The only situation in which the Japanese hydromechanics looked more preferable was associated with the same snowfalls. One night we left the cars in the parking lot, which turned into virgin snow overnight - not only was it not easy to get out of there, but at some point Superb’s position seemed hopeless: his “double clutch” clicked its clutches, getting confused between the first and second gear. As a result, our most experienced colleague and part-time jeeper amateur Andrey Sudbin tore the car out of the snow captivity. But Mazda6 quite calmly, with insignificant slippage and even without disabling the ESP, plowed the entire site. And one more thing: both automatic transmissions can be controlled by the petals in the “semi-automatic” mode. Mazda's are just fine.

The Skyactiv-2.5T engine already has a “normal” compression ratio of 10.5, and not 13.0, like all Skyactiv “aspirated”, but much of its character comes from its closest naturally aspirated relative of 2.5 liters. Maybe because these motors are practically unified in design? They even have a common “geometry”, namely the cylinder diameter (89.0 mm), the piston stroke (100 mm) and even the working volume - 2,488 cm3.

In general, it seems that the Japanese engine is difficult to spin up, the situation is not so acute with reactions, and there is much more noise from it even with the throttle half open than from the Czech - sorry, German - unit, already starting from medium crankshaft speed. True, it was the “Japanese” who showed that in terms of efficiency, he is not only in no way inferior to the “German”, but, on the contrary, confidently surpasses him, and the denser the flow, and the more “torn” the rhythm of movement, the more noticeable the difference. However, with relatively moderate driving around the city of medium congestion experienced driver on both machines will easily get out of 11 l / 100 km.

What am I leading to? Against the background of its competitor in this test Mazda6 in terms of total consumer qualities looks not that much lagging behind, but rather “not so modern”. And from the fact that against the background of other classmates - say, Toyota Camry - the "six" seems to be an unconditional favorite, it should not be easier for the managers of the Russian branch of Mazda, because with Toyota, which is assembled from us according to full cycle, the "six" cannot compete on price. Moreover, the updated interior of the “six” in some places causes a slight bewilderment: with the restyling, the central screen has increased by an inch, the style and style of the scales have changed, and then all the harmony parted. Tell me, why did they make the white backlight of the speedometer more “cold” than on the extreme sections? Yes, and that's not the point - do you remember that sometime the last restyling of a model in a generation was accompanied by such strong changes in technology? What for? Spinning in place?

Mazda or Skoda?