Hey everyone! Today, we're diving headfirst into the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring Plus, a car that often gets overlooked in the mid-size sedan segment. But trust me, this car deserves a serious look. The 2017 model year brought some exciting updates, especially in the Grand Touring Plus trim, making it a compelling choice for anyone in the market for a stylish, fun-to-drive, and well-equipped sedan. So, buckle up, and let's explore everything this car has to offer, from its sleek design and performance to its tech features and overall ownership experience.

Overview: What Makes the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring Plus Special?

First things first, what exactly is the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring Plus? Well, it's the top-tier trim level for the Mazda 6, sitting above the Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring models. This means it comes loaded with all the bells and whistles, offering a premium experience without breaking the bank. The Mazda 6, in general, has always been known for its sporty handling, stylish design, and fuel efficiency. The 2017 model year built on those strengths, adding more refinement and technology to the mix. The Grand Touring Plus takes it a step further, offering enhanced features and a more luxurious feel. It is a four-door sedan and provides a comfortable ride. The car can accommodate five passengers in its seats.

One of the key features of the 2017 Mazda 6 is its KODO design language, which gives the car a sleek and flowing aesthetic. The Grand Touring Plus trim amplifies this with its unique features. It also packs a powerful engine, offering a responsive and engaging driving experience. Inside, you'll find a well-crafted cabin with premium materials and a user-friendly infotainment system. In addition to all of this, the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring Plus comes equipped with a suite of advanced safety features, providing peace of mind on the road. This combination of style, performance, technology, and safety makes the Grand Touring Plus a standout in its class. In the realm of automotive excellence, the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring Plus stands as a testament to Mazda's commitment to delivering a driving experience that transcends the ordinary. It's more than just a car; it's a statement. It is a bold statement of design, performance, and innovation, seamlessly blended to create an experience that captivates and delights.

Design and Aesthetics

The 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring Plus is a real looker. The exterior design is all about smooth lines and a sporty stance. The car's front end is characterized by a bold chrome grille and sleek LED headlights, which give it a sophisticated yet aggressive appearance. The Grand Touring Plus trim typically includes unique features that enhance its appearance, such as specific wheel designs and subtle badging. The overall design language, known as KODO – Soul of Motion, reflects Mazda's dedication to creating vehicles that are not only functional but also visually striking.

Stepping inside, you'll find an interior that is both elegant and functional. The cabin is well-appointed with high-quality materials, including leather upholstery and soft-touch surfaces. The design is driver-focused, with all the controls and displays within easy reach. The Grand Touring Plus trim takes it up a notch with additional features like premium audio systems, advanced driver-assistance technologies, and stylish trim accents. The attention to detail is evident throughout the interior, creating a comfortable and enjoyable environment for both the driver and passengers. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a long road trip, the interior of the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring Plus is designed to provide a premium and engaging experience. The exterior design elements create a bold and dynamic silhouette, which is both eye-catching and aerodynamic.

Performance and Driving Experience

Alright, let's talk about what makes the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring Plus so fun to drive. Under the hood, you'll find a peppy 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine is known for its responsiveness and efficiency, delivering a good balance of power and fuel economy. The engine is paired with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission. This combination ensures that the car is always eager to accelerate and offers a comfortable ride at highway speeds. One of the standout features of the Mazda 6 is its handling. The car is known for its precise steering, which gives you a great feel for the road and makes it a joy to navigate twisty roads. The suspension is tuned to provide a balance of comfort and sportiness, absorbing bumps while still providing confident handling. The Grand Touring Plus trim often includes additional performance-enhancing features, such as a sport mode, which sharpens the throttle response and further enhances the driving experience. Overall, the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring Plus is a car that's designed to be enjoyed behind the wheel. The Mazda 6 offers a dynamic and engaging driving experience.

Engine and Transmission

The heart of the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring Plus is its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine is a workhorse, delivering a healthy 184 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. It's not the most powerful engine in its class, but it provides plenty of power for everyday driving and quick passing maneuvers. What sets this engine apart is its responsiveness and efficiency. Mazda has worked hard to optimize the engine for both performance and fuel economy, resulting in a car that's fun to drive and easy on the wallet. The six-speed automatic transmission is another key component of the driving experience. The transmission is smooth and responsive, with well-timed shifts that keep the engine in its power band. It also offers a manual shift mode, allowing you to take control and enjoy a more engaging driving experience. The combination of the engine and transmission makes the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring Plus a pleasure to drive, whether you're cruising on the highway or navigating city streets.

Technology and Features

Now, let's get into the tech! The 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring Plus comes equipped with a decent amount of tech to keep you connected and entertained. The car typically features Mazda's user-friendly infotainment system, which includes a touchscreen display, navigation, and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This allows you to easily access your favorite apps, music, and navigation on the go. The Grand Touring Plus trim often includes premium features such as a Bose audio system, providing excellent sound quality. The car also features advanced safety technologies, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. These features not only enhance safety but also provide a more comfortable and convenient driving experience. The interior is also equipped with many other features, such as parking sensors, rearview camera, and LED headlights.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The infotainment system in the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring Plus is a highlight. Mazda's system is known for its intuitive design and ease of use. The touchscreen display is clear and responsive, and the rotary controller makes it easy to navigate the various menus and functions while you're driving. The system includes features like navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This allows you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation. The Grand Touring Plus trim typically includes a premium Bose audio system, which provides excellent sound quality and enhances the overall entertainment experience. Overall, the infotainment system is designed to provide a user-friendly and enjoyable experience, keeping you connected and entertained on the road.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

When it comes to safety, the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring Plus has you covered. The car comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. Standard safety features include airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control. The Grand Touring Plus trim often adds advanced driver-assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. These features use sensors and cameras to monitor the car's surroundings and provide alerts or assistance to help prevent accidents. Adaptive cruise control automatically maintains a set distance from the car in front, making highway driving more relaxed. Lane departure warning alerts you if you drift out of your lane, and lane-keeping assist can help steer the car back into its lane. Blind-spot monitoring alerts you to vehicles in your blind spot, helping you to change lanes safely. The 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring Plus also has features such as a rearview camera and parking sensors. All of these features work together to provide peace of mind and help keep you safe on the road. Mazda is committed to providing its customers with a safe and secure driving experience.

Safety Ratings

The 2017 Mazda 6 earned high marks in safety tests conducted by both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Mazda 6 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, the highest rating possible. The IIHS awarded the Mazda 6 with the Top Safety Pick+ rating, the institute's highest award. These excellent safety ratings demonstrate Mazda's commitment to safety and the effectiveness of the car's safety features. When considering a car purchase, safety should always be a top priority, and the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring Plus is a great choice in this regard. It provides the protection and peace of mind you need on the road.

Interior Comfort and Practicality

Let's talk about the inside. The 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring Plus offers a comfortable and practical interior. The seats are supportive and well-cushioned, providing a comfortable ride even on long journeys. The cabin is spacious, with plenty of room for both front and rear passengers. The Grand Touring Plus trim typically includes premium features such as leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver's seat. These features enhance comfort and add a touch of luxury to the driving experience. The car also offers a good amount of cargo space. The trunk is spacious enough to accommodate luggage, groceries, or other items. The rear seats can be folded down to provide even more cargo space. The 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring Plus is designed to be a comfortable and practical car for both everyday driving and longer trips. Mazda has designed the interior to provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience for the driver and passengers.

Seating and Space

The 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring Plus offers a comfortable and spacious interior. The front seats are supportive and well-cushioned, providing a comfortable seating position for the driver and front passenger. The driver's seat is typically power-adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect driving position. The rear seats offer plenty of legroom and headroom, making them comfortable for adult passengers. The car can accommodate up to five passengers. The interior is designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all occupants. The interior is designed to provide a comfortable and spacious environment.

Ownership Experience and Reliability

What's it like to live with a 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring Plus? Generally, owners have reported a positive experience. Mazda has a reputation for building reliable cars, and the Mazda 6 is no exception. The car is known for its durability and its relatively low cost of ownership. The Mazda 6 offers good fuel economy, which helps to keep running costs down. Maintenance is also generally straightforward, with readily available parts and a network of Mazda dealerships to provide service. The Mazda 6 also holds its value well, making it a good investment. Overall, the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring Plus is a car that's designed to provide a long-lasting and enjoyable ownership experience. The brand offers good value for its price.

Common Problems and Issues

Like any car, the 2017 Mazda 6 isn't perfect, and some common problems and issues have been reported by owners. Some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system, such as occasional glitches or freezing. These issues can often be resolved with software updates. Others have reported issues with the car's paint, which can be prone to chipping or scratching. Regular care and maintenance can help to minimize these issues. Overall, the Mazda 6 is a reliable car, and these issues are not widespread. However, it's always a good idea to research any potential issues before making a purchase. The Mazda 6 is reliable and durable. Regular maintenance and care can help keep it in good condition.

Should You Buy a 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring Plus?

So, is the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring Plus the right car for you? If you're looking for a stylish, fun-to-drive, and well-equipped mid-size sedan, then the answer is likely yes. The car offers a great combination of performance, technology, and safety features, making it a compelling choice in its class. It is the perfect car for those who value both style and practicality. The Mazda 6 is an excellent choice. However, if you need more cargo space or prefer a more spacious interior, you might want to consider other options. But, overall, the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring Plus is a fantastic car that offers a premium driving experience at a competitive price point. The Mazda 6 is a great choice and a good value.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Stylish and sporty design
• Fun-to-drive handling
• Fuel-efficient engine
• Well-equipped interior with premium features
• Advanced safety features
• Reliable and durable

Cons:

• Infotainment system can be glitchy
• Paint can be prone to chipping
• May not offer as much rear passenger space as some competitors.

Conclusion: Is the Mazda 6 2017 Grand Touring Plus Worth It?

In conclusion, the 2017 Mazda 6 Grand Touring Plus is a compelling choice in the mid-size sedan segment. It offers a great combination of style, performance, technology, and safety features. If you're looking for a car that's fun to drive, well-equipped, and reliable, then the Mazda 6 Grand Touring Plus is definitely worth considering. It's a car that's designed to provide a premium driving experience without breaking the bank. The Mazda 6 offers great value for its price and is a worthy contender in its class. So, go out there, take one for a test drive, and see for yourself why this car has earned a loyal following. It is a great choice and a good value. It's a car that is worth considering.