THE Mazda6 Estate has been crowned The Caravan Club Towcar of the Year 2005, in recognition of its practical and affordable towing ability, and the award was presented by former land speed record holder, Richard Noble OBE. The Mazda6 Estate impressed all the judges with its flexibility and the composed way in which it handled a caravan loaded to 85% of its kerb weight. The exact specification that was tested for the 22nd year of this highly regarded competition was the Mazda6 Estate 2.0-litre diesel 136ps TS model.

"It is particularly quiet and refined, fitted with a 16-valve common-rail diesel engine that produces maximum torque at just 2,000rpm," commented one of the judging panel which included What Car? magazine editor Steve Fowler. "With up to 134bhp power on tap it's no slouch yet all drivers commented on how comfortable the car stayed when pushed hard around the Millbrook test circuit. Equally important, brake performance was good and the handbrake inspired confidence when needed," the judges explained.

Low operating costs (including Group 9 insurance), a useful body shape and sensible towing limits were other factors that endeared the Mazda6 to the judging panel. "The Caravan Club Tow Car of the Year 2005 title is a real honour for the Mazda6 Estate, proving its flexibility thanks to a great engine and overall design," commented David McGonigle, Mazda's fleet and remarketing director.