Many new vehicles are selling for thousands over MSRP, prompting consumers to consider used cars. Shoppers looking for a solid used midsize sedan should check out the 2016 Mazda6 and 2016 Hyundai Sonata. These two cars are fuel-efficient, feature-packed, and stylish. But the Mazda6 has one tempting advantage over the Sonata.

The 2016 Hyundai Sonata can’t beat the 2016 Mazda6’s driving experience

Simply put, the 2016 Mazda6 is more fun to drive than the Sonata. While the Hyundai is a comfortable cruiser, it doesn’t offer Mazda’s engaging driving experience.

The 2016 Mazda6 offers responsive steering with a more connected feel than the Sonata. The 6 also handles corners and winding roads with ease. With a lighter weight and more responsive suspension, the Mazda6 also boasts agile handling.

In addition, the 2016 Mazda6 touts a more potent base engine than most midsize sedans provide. With a spirited feel off the line, the 6’s engine is more athletic than the standard powerplant in the 2016 Hyundai Sonata. Also, the Mazda’s base engine is enhanced by its smooth-shifting transmission. Finally, the Mazda6’s chassis is more communicative than the Sonata’s, giving the driver more feedback.

More about the 2016 Mazda6

The 2016 Mazda6 is an excellent midsize sedan providing athletic performance, eye-catching style, and impressive fuel economy. U.S. News praises the 2016 model for its nimble handling and quick acceleration, making it a fun car to drive.

The 2016 Mazda6 packs a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 184 hp and 185 lb-ft of torque. It pairs with a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth and responsive shifting. Its gas mileage is impressive, with an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway.

The 2016 Mazda6’s interior is roomy and upscale with a minimalist, modern design. Its front seats offer solid, comfortable support. And the back row provides ample headroom and legroom.

Standard tech features include a 7.0-inch infotainment screen, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Higher trim models boast a Bose sound system, leather upholstery, and advanced driver-assistance systems such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alerts.

How the 2016 Hyundai Sonata stacks up against its midsize sedan rival

The 2016 Mazda6 has many attractive features, but the 2016 Sonata is no slouch. It saw significant upgrades for the 2016 model year. Hyundai updated its styling cues, safety features, and an infotainment system. It also has excellent gas mileage, a roomy cabin, and a comfortable ride.

The 2016 Hyundai Sonata came in six trim levels, all with a six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. Some of the higher trims offered a turbocharged engine.

The 2016 Mazda6 and Hyundai Sonata have much in common, including identical safety and reliability ratings. U.S. News notes that “choosing between these two comes down to how much you prioritize a fun drive.”

Those who value cabin space and excellent gas mileage might prefer the 2016 Hyundai Sonata. However, the 2016 Mazda6 boasts a higher-quality interior and an exciting driving experience with better handling. Either way, these two used midsize sedan offer plenty of value.