Mazda has got game this year for sure.

I'm talking about the sexy-- and fast -- 2009 Mazda6. This car has done a complete 180 since the last generation, and may even surprise a good many intermediate-size car buyers with its content, style and driving performance.

Mazda6, introduced in 2002 as a 2003 model, is known for its performance, handling and fun-to-drive factor, and has been a hit with both consumers and the journalists. But the current model was smaller than the competition, and had been bypassed by other cars in terms of horsepower.

But no more. The Mazda6 has more than caught up. It's longer, roomier, and even better handling than the model it replaces. Inside you'll find 1.5-inch more of rear legroom, and .09 inch more space for your knees. Headroom's up, too -- by 0.7 inches. Luggage space is about 9 percent more than what it was with the old model, too.

The styling definitely reminds me of an entry-level sports luxury sedan, not a car meant to do family car duty, which this one, I suspect, will do with flair.

No, Mazda has its own self-identity down pat, and the company knows that consumers expect performance and style from Mazda, and the Mazda6 clearly delivers.

There are muscular bulges over the fenders, a graceful semi-fastback roofline, spoiler, and gorgeous dual exhaust pipes in rear, or duals on one side in the four-cylinder model -- all of which send a message of purposeful aggression.

I think you can credit at least part of that to the adaptation of the "Active Adoptive Shift control feature from the Mazda RX-8 sports coupe. This system watches for curvy roads and has a gear ratio that allows for optimum acceleration response when you're exiting a corner while you drive.

If you go into a bend while decelerating, the same system speeds up your downshift speed so that you can get the maximum amount of engine braking.

Two main power plants are being offered -- a 170-horsepower, 3.7-liter four, and an all new 3.7-liter 272-horsepower V-6 -- with best in class horsepower. Unlike many other carmakers, Mazda is offering customers a choice of six-speed manual or a five- or six-speed automatic transmission depending on the model you choose.

Needless to say, the new Mazda6 holds the road like glue, not unlike its predecessor. Driving the four was an enjoyable experience, as the engine is generally responsive and fun to drive. But there were times when the four sounded noisy under acceleration or heading uphill.

The interior is particularly cool, with Mazda's trademark black and beige color scheme, with liberal use of "piano black."

Lots of emphasis on improving quality control on this new model was made, particularly when it comes to the air conditioning system and the problem of brake dust on the previous model, which resulted in a noisier, squealing brakes.

These were two of the top items mentioned in consumer surveys about the current generation Mazda6.

As a result, improvements like a bigger air compressor, stronger, faster cooling and redesigns of the wheels to cut down on brake dust were among the steps taken in the 2009 model, Mazda officials said.

Pricing on the Mazda6 ranges from $18,550 without destination fees, to $28,260. Standard equipment includes full power accessories, air conditioning, power rack and pinion steering, anti-lock brakes, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, six air bags, traction control, stability control, and an AM-FM stereo audio system with MP3, Sirius Satellite compatibility and six speakers, and steering- wheel-mounted controls.

The base model is the Mazda6i, followed up the ladder by Mazda6i Sport, Mazda6i touring, Mazda6i Grand Touring, Mazda6s Sport, and Mazda 6s Touring and Mazda6s Grand Touring.