It sounds like the 2014 Mazda6 is promising overall... I hope they make it more exciting to drive, though, when production starts (e.g., auto journalists' criticism re: the electric steering and handling).

2014 Mazda6

http://www.autoweek.com/article/2012...IEWS/121009905

2014 Mazda6 First Drive - Motor Trend

http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/...t-drive-review

http://www.wheels.ca/reviews/2014-ma...re-to-dashing/

http://www.automobilemag.com/reviews...6_first_drive/

http://www.whatcar.com/car-news/new-...-review/264061


Video:
In the neighbourhood of about 3,000-3,300 lbs., a well-tuned Mazda6 or Mazdaspeed edition might be enough to make you forget about the RX-8. They really need a 6-speed manual transmission option in North America. Also, I'd love to see a 14:1 compression engine here as well. We almost have enough Ultra94 gas stations in some areas that you could kind of pull it off.