Pricing for the redesigned 2009 Mazda6 sports sedan will start at $18,550 for the Mazda6 i SV equipped with a 170-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and six-speed manual transmission. The Mazda6 s, with a 273-horsepower V6 engine and six-speed automatic, will begin at $24,130. Destination charges will be an additional $670.

All Mazda6 models will have standard anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control, traction control, and front side- and curtain-air bags (covering both rows).

The previous-generation Mazda6 was competitive among family sedans, but not as powerful or refined as the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry. We’ll see if this redesigned version can zoom up in our Ratings when we test it in the coming months.

The 2009 MAZDA6 will arrive at dealerships in late August.

—Liza Barth