Even when it first hit the market in 2002, it was clear the Mazda6 was different from its competitors, in a good way. Instead of the typical mid-size family sedan that had little to no personality, the Mazda6 has consistently been fun to drive, is stylish inside and out, and, overall, boasts excellent build quality. Really, you can't ask for much more, especially considering the price. So it's no wonder we were excited to check out the 2017 Mazda6 Grand Touring. To sum up: it's damn near perfect, and 'perfect,' when describing any car, isn't a word we use often (if ever).

Powered by a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter inline-four with 184 hp and 185 lb-ft of torque, power goes to the front wheels via a six-speed slushbox. And yes, a six-speed manual is offered on the two lower trims, Sport and Touring. Why not on the Grand Touring? Some Mazda product planner isn't good at their job.

Anyway, for 2017 Mazda continued to update the 6-er with better sound-deadening materials and the steering wheel from the new CX-9. Point being is that instead of just letting the third generation Mazda6 age gracefully, it's only becoming better with age, like a fine red wine. Our only nit-picky complaints are that its rear seat might be a tad too snug for some and no V6 option (then again, no new Mazda today is offered with a V6). So yes, the 2017 Mazda6 is about as perfect as cars can get. Special thanks to DGDG.com for letting us film the car.