Midsize sedans these days are trending more toward the comfort, upscale, and tech-based side of the aisle. Families need function and safety. But what about fun? Are there still any sedans out there that still get your blood pumping when you hit the gas to merge on the freeway? According to one report, there are a few cars this year that still have that fun factor. And the 2020 Mazda6 proves that the “zoom-zoom” automaker spent some extra time designing a sedan that would make drivers smile, and not break the bank.

The U.S. News roster of fun

The auto industry experts at U.S. News put out a list of 2020 sedans that not only compete well in their space but still manage to be fun to drive. A few notable mentions include the Audi A5, the BMW 5 Series, and Tesla Model 3.

Also topping this list is the Mazda6. And it’s a car that won’t cost nearly what some of those others will. It proves you don’t have to spend a lot of money to get a little enjoyment from behind the wheel. In fact, you can park one in your garage for $24,100.

Who knew you could have so much fun with a four-cylinder?

You don’t have to pay a hefty MSRP, nor do you have to have a monster engine to experience the pep of a Mazda6. The standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine still offers 187 horses, enough to knock a few cobwebs loose. What makes this car so fun to drive isn’t all based on its power.

It’s the design and handling that responds directly, allowing the driver to actually feel the turns and curves. There is a turbocharged version of this engine, though if you do need 227 or 250 hp.

Carving out your must-have features for the Mazda6

Not much has changed for the 2020 Mazda6, and many reviews suggest you wouldn’t want to add anything anyway. The design is sleek, and the ride is comfortable, for both driver and passengers. You can choose from five trim levels, including the Sport, Touring, Grand Touring, Grand Touring Reserve, and Signature.

Regardless of which level suits your driving or commuting needs, you won’t have to compromise. Even the base model Sport comes with significant driver aids, safety features, infotainment, and vigorous response. This car begs to be driven at any level. With price tags between the base $24,000 and the Signature $35,000, the Mazda6 puts enjoyable driving in almost anyone’s budget.

The only real drawback for the 2020 Mazda6

Finding critics of this curve-hugging sedan can be tough. Most of the expert reviews have plenty of thumbs up to give the Mazda6. Because the engineers at Mazda, who clearly love their jobs by the looks of this car, built the Mazda6 for athleticism, the suspension may fall short. In other words, in making it more performance-based, it can sometimes feel harsher on the road than others in its class. And if that’s the drawback for the Mazda6, it’s worth every penny.

Comfort, convenience, and safety are often the most important aspects of a new car. However, consider how much time you spend in the driver’s seat, whether you commute or spend much of your day running family errands. If your schedule or routine has you behind the wheel for several hours each week, you deserve to at least have a little fun while you’re there. And with the 2020 Mazda6, you can have all of the above without spending a fortune, either.