The engine zoom; The Mazda6's 2.2-litre turbo diesel makes it fun to drive as well as affordable to run, says MALCOLM ROBERTSHAW.

Byline: MALCOLM ROBERTSHAW

NOWADAYS a great diesel is essential to convince both business and private buyers of a firm's credentials in the medium family car range.

While Mazda have always delivered diesel urge via very capable oil-burners, a little more was required to give their Mazda6 class-leading capability.

So, enter Mazda's answer, the 2.2-litre diesel - an advanced common rail diesel engine with a variable geometry turbo and highpressure fuel injection system. It offers the driver plenty of adaptability so, depending on your requirements, it can deliver maximum efficiency or allow for swift progress.

This engine comes with three levels of power.

The 123bhp entry-level version boasts a 0-62mph time of less than 11 seconds while the 182bhp top-level power source cuts this to 8.5 seconds. I drove the third alternative, which offers 161bhp, and takes 9.2 seconds to cover the sprint.

The Mazda6 2.2 turbo diesel also promises to be an affordable car to run as it is possible to get well over 50mpg in mixed motoring.

Paired with a smooth and very precise six-speed manual gearbox, the 2.2 turbo diesel engine spins pretty quietly to deliver some outstanding motorway cruising.

There is also plenty of fun to be had with the precise electronic power steering, which invites driver involvement.

Despite the ride being a little on the firm side, it is certainly not unforgiving and the car will link together a series of bends in neat and agile fashion.

While the car comes in saloon and estate forms, the hatchback was driven here. It is comfortably spacious with all the hallmarks of fine build quality.

The rear headroom may not suit everyone, but there is plenty of room and manoeuvrability up front.

Along with some decent legroom in the rear, the Mazda6 has a good-sized, well-shaped boot.

Overall, the Mazda6 2.2 turbo diesel is another big plus for the Japanese car maker.

Sharp styling, including some eye-catching exterior chrome, complements the good list of standard equipment.

The TS2 trim adds the likes of dual-zone climate control, a six-speaker sound system with six-CD changer and a rear vehicle monitoring system to the basic model's electric windows all round and dynamic stability and traction control systems.

Factfile: Model: Mazda6 2.2 TS2 Diesel hatchback Engine: 2.2-litre diesel Power: 161bhp Top speed: 132mph 0-62mph: 9.2 seconds Fuel economy: 51.4mpg combined CO2 emissions: 147g/km Warranty: Three years/ 60,000 miles Price: pounds 19,510 On sale: Now