What are the differences between the 2020 and 2021 Mazda6 Atenza models?
4 Answers
The main differences between the 2021 and 2020 Mazda6 Atenza models lie in configuration adjustments, with minimal changes in other aspects. Below is an introduction to the 2021 Mazda6 Atenza: 1. Exterior: The 2021 Mazda6 Atenza continues the previous exterior design, featuring a sleek body with a mesh grille and chrome accents extending to the headlights, giving it a very sporty look. 2. Interior: The 2021 Mazda6 Atenza retains the original design, with this update primarily focusing on configuration adjustments. The 2.0L Luxury and 2.5L Sport models now include 360° panoramic monitoring, blind spot detection, and reverse collision warning. The 2.0L Premium and 2.5L Grand Touring models have added features such as autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist.
I test drove two cars, and the 2021 Mazda6 (Atenza) has more refined exterior details. The front grille now features a dot-matrix design instead of the previous horizontal bars, giving it a more upscale look. The headlight cluster has been slightly tweaked, with longer and more prominent daytime running light strips. A new Platinum Quartz Metallic color option has been added, showcasing strong metallic effects under sunlight. The most noticeable interior upgrades include more soft leather on the dashboard and door panels, finer stitching craftsmanship, and thicker seat padding that reduces back fatigue during long drives. Noise insulation has also been improved, with significantly reduced tire noise at highway speeds. However, the powertrain remains unchanged with the same smooth 2.0L and 2.5L naturally aspirated engines paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission as the 2020 model. If your budget allows, these subtle refinements in the 2021 model can significantly enhance daily driving comfort.
I've been driving the 2020 Mazda6 Atenza for a year now, and compared to my friend's newly purchased 2021 model, I've noticed significant improvements in practicality. First, the infotainment system has been upgraded to support wireless CarPlay and Carlife, eliminating the need for cable connections to phones. The steering wheel heating is particularly useful in winter, a feature even the high-end 2020 model didn't have. The rear seats now come with additional USB ports and illuminated cup holders, making family outings with kids much more convenient. The suspension tuning is softer, reducing vibrations when going over speed bumps, but without compromising handling. Safety features have seen notable upgrades, with adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist now standard across all trims, allowing for automatic following and turning on highways. The clarity of the rearview camera has improved. The key fob now includes a remote start function. Fuel consumption remains around 8.5L, making it quite economical for family use.
From a technical perspective, the improvements in the 2021 Mazda6 Atenza mainly focus on configurations. There are no major changes to the mechanical structure, with the engine still being the Skyactiv-G 2.5L naturally aspirated unit, delivering a maximum power of 192 horsepower. The transmission logic has been optimized, resulting in slightly faster downshift responses. New additions include a 360-degree panoramic camera and blind-spot monitoring, with warning lights integrated into the side mirrors. Partial reinforcement of the chassis has increased body rigidity by 5%. The brake discs have been enlarged for better heat dissipation control. The interior now offers an optional brown Nappa leather, and the instrument cluster can display more driving data. The air filter has been upgraded to a PM0.1 filtration level. The telematics system supports OTA updates, making it significantly more convenient than the 2020 model.
