Overview & Reviews

With a few well-established vehicles dominating the midsize sedan segment, and numerous likable competitors trying to unseat them, it's tough for any particular vehicle to stand out. But the Mazda 6 has often offered something most competitors don't: charisma.

While just about any car in this segment will get the job done, the Mazda 6 manages to engage the driver in the process. This was particularly true of the first-generation 6, which had a relatively compact, European-size footprint and sporty suspension tuning that gave the car a remarkably nimble feel. For the second- and third-generation 6, Mazda enlarged the dimensions but retained much of the original model's handling panache. Whichever vintage you choose, the Mazda 6 is a solid choice as a midsize sedan.

Current Mazda 6
The Mazda 6 midsize sedan comes standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces 184 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque. Two transmissions are available: a six speed manual or a six-speed automatic (with shift paddles on the steering wheel).

Sport, Touring and Grand Touring are the three trim levels for the current Mazda 6. Standard equipment on the base Sport with the manual transmission includes a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, air-conditioning, cruise control, full power accessories, a 60/40-split rear seat and a six-speaker sound system. The automatic transmission-equipped Sport gets Bluetooth, an infotainment touchscreen and a rearview camera.

Stepping up to the Touring adds items such as keyless ignition and entry, blind-spot monitoring, dual-zone climate control and a power-adjustable driver seat. Options for the Touring include automatic headlights, a sunroof, an upgraded sound system, navigation and a frontal collision mitigation system. The Grand Touring gets all the standard and optional features from the Touring, plus bi-xenon headlights, foglights, leather upholstery and heated front seats. Notable options for the Grand Touring include adaptive cruise control and the i-Eloop system that improves fuel economy by 2-3 mpg.

Visually, the 6 is no wallflower, with a distinctive face and a sleek profile that stands out in a crowd. In terms of practicality, the Mazda 6 also stacks up well against class leaders such as the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry with regard to passenger space and cargo volume. Moreover, most midsize sedans can't match the Mazda's entertaining character on twisty back roads. The car's main downsides are an electronic interface that's a little behind the times and a ride quality that some drivers might deem a tad too stiff.

Used Mazda 6 Models
The newest, third-generation Mazda 6 appeared for 2014. Compared to the previous-generation model, the latest 6 differentiates itself with sleeker styling, higher fuel economy and added safety features. Mazda hasn't made any major changes since.

The second-generation Mazda 6 debuted for the 2009 model year and was produced through 2013. There were two available engines: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 170 hp and 167 lb-ft of torque or a 3.7-liter V6 that put out 272 hp and 269 lb-ft. The four-cylinder was paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic, while the V6 was only available with a six-speed automatic.

In its second generation, the 6 was available in five trim levels: i Sport, i Touring, i Touring Plus, i Grand Touring and s Grand Touring. Models with the "i" prefix come with the four-cylinder engine, while those with the "s"prefix come with the V6. Base models were respectably equipped, while higher trim levels came with such niceties as a sunroof, Bluetooth, dual-zone automatic climate control and an audible blind-spot monitoring system. Other notable options included xenon headlights, keyless ignition and entry, satellite radio and a navigation system.

As with other Mazda 6 models, we appreciated this generation's sporty handling. It was also pretty practical thanks to a roomy interior and a big trunk. On the downside, though, fuel economy wasn't the best in the segment and interior materials were lackluster. In its final couple years, this 6 also seemed increasingly outdated compared to newer rivals from Hyundai, Nissan and Toyota. But overall we think it's still worth considering as a used family sedan.

Launched for the 2003 model year and produced through 2008, the first-generation Mazda 6 was initially available only as a sedan, while a four-door hatchback and a wagon joined the lineup from 2004-'07. There were two basic trim levels: i and s. The Mazda 6 i was powered by a 160-hp four-cylinder engine mated to either a manual or an automatic transmission. The s came with a 220-hp 3.0-liter V6 -- also available with a manual transmission or an automatic.

The Mazdaspeed 6 was a turbocharged, all-wheel-drive variant of the Mazda 6 sedan that was only offered in 2006 and '07. Boasting 278 hp, a six-speed manual transmission and sports-car-like handling, this European-style sedan delivered great driving excitement. As a used car, it's a compelling package for those with a need for speed, not to mention all-wheel-drive traction.

With power accessories, cruise control and pleasant cloth upholstery, even base models were reasonably well equipped. Optional features included a rear spoiler, foglights, leather seating, a power sunroof and an upgraded audio system with a CD changer.

We like the original Mazda 6 for its edgy, handsome design and stylish interior. Even more impressive were its communicative steering and tight suspension. Both the hatchback and wagon were fun-to-drive and sensible alternatives to other sedans and even SUVs. On the downside, the first-gen Mazda 6's interior quality was lacking, and the sedan was relatively short on passenger space. Moreover, the V6 lacked the punch of rival uplevel motors.

There were a few changes made to the first-generation Mazda 6 over the years. In 2005, a six-speed automatic replaced the five-speed unit on V6 models. For 2006, four-cylinder cars received an upgraded five-speed automatic in place of the old four-speed, and all Mazda 6 models were treated to minor styling updates. The 2006 and '07 models benefited from additional safety features being made standard.

User Reviews:

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  SPORT SEDAN and then some - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Captain Z - April 10 - 2:00 am

  The 6 is an engineering masterpiece for its price. Dont worry. Its not going to be the next Toyhonzukee; the 6 is unique and still rare. My 5-spd is responsive, shifts smoothly, quietly. Handling (esp. in turns) is outstanding; see how sharply it can corner. However, avoid roads in poor condition. The 6 is best on HWY or on smooth roads. Very stylish, comfortable interior; limited space in back seat. Cockpit lights are red; modern and attractive! Buy this car fully loaded (or not) and watch heads turn. It is a "must" if in your class and price range. Very fun to drive. If you want more speed, I believe many engine enhancements will soon become available.

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  Zoom - Zoom - 2007 Mazda Mazda6
  By Monique - April 9 - 6:13 pm

  I just love this car. Driving it makes you feel as though you own the road.

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  Anyone Else Experiencing Electrical Issues?? - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By jayl2 - April 7 - 3:15 pm

  Purchased the car used from a dealer in January 2008. Within 6 months, started to notice issues with the clock not lighting up. This ultimately progressed to the entire dash not lighting up, or flickering. Now, the radio turns on and off by itself, and is a real nuisance when driving. I was told by the dealer that to correct this problem it will be over $1000. Needless to say, I dont have the money now to do this. Has anyone else experienced this problem? Was there ever a recall on this issue? I couldnt find one. Other than forking over $1000 to get this issue corrected, what has anyone else done to remedy the situation?

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  Best in Class...With Style - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By RuddigerPez - April 7 - 6:16 am

  Checked out a comparable Accord, Camry, and Altima and only the Altima came close to this vehicle. Though the Touring model isnt the top trim for the 6i, its still a feature-laden auto with many amenities that you will find you cant live without. Stability/traction control, trip computer, MP3 capable stereo and advanced key (no key start and door-locks) just to name a few. Handling/engine power is great, road/wind noise is low, and interior and controls are well laid-out. If you dont think the Mazda6 has the features/power/build quality that you are looking for, be prepared to pay $10,000 more to get what you want.

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  Sweet Wagon - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By jhgough - April 5 - 10:00 am

  Took delivery of a steel gray Wagon with Luxury Package (black leather), Bose Audio, Moonroof, Sport Package, Side Airbags on 6/22/04. I have the roof side rails and bumper step plate on order at the dealership and will have them install it in a couple of weeks. I traded in a 98 Mustang GT and I have to say that as sad as it was to depart with the mustang the Mazda met and has even exceeded my expectations. This is an excellent vehicle and great value for the money even if you have to have all sort of other items (moonroof, bose audio) in order to get side airbags. Excellent driving characteristics and great space.

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  If you cant afford a Jaguar - 2010 Mazda Mazda6
  By Rod M. - April 3 - 3:26 am

  Lease expired on our beloved 2007 Mazda3 Touring. Checked out the 2010 3s and could not get past the homely grill. Test drove new Sonata and Camry. The Sonata is pretty and handles well, but the GLS feels like the economy car it is. The Camry (even in sportier SE trim) was not much fun to drive. The Fusion, Accord, Altima and Legacy styling do not move the pulse rate. If you put a leaping cat on the 6, it could be mistaken for a Jag. One car editor said it drove like a Jaguar XF. So whats the down side? The cloth seats are not that comfortable. The lumbar support does not hit me in the right place. Cheap Walmart seat cushions fixed that. Stereo is just okay. Mileage is mediocre.

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  Disappointed... - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By B Raymond - March 31 - 10:13 pm

  Bought this car used with 20,000 mi. LOVED this car, how it drove how it looked, the amount of room. But after about a year every few months we had to replace something: the clutch, the shocks, tires (2x), and air box system. Finally the engine in the car blew due to a cracked seal that caused the oil to leak dry(the oil was changed every 3000 mi). the carpeting is coming off in the cabin area and the drivers side speaker goes in and out. So we are getting rid of the car (after taking a huge hit on the loan) and never buying another mazda.

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  Lovin it - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By hongdaniel - March 31 - 10:00 am

  Thank you Mazda! Less known than Honda or Toyota, but more bang for the buck!

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  Good, with some flaws - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By bricknord - March 24 - 9:36 pm

  Gauges too high...when you have wheel tilted and seat adjusted normally, wheel blocks gauges. Some small trim defects, misaligned panels, etc. Wind whistle. Good mpg, nice suspension. Feels bigger than it is to drive, backing up a chore. Compliments from others on styling. Standard DSC a plus. Transmission can be felt downshifting hard when decelerating which is annoying. Very quiet at highway speed. Nice interior layout with exception of gauges vs. steering wheel. Too much bass at low volumes--stereo. Nice, roomy rear seat. Plastic wheel covers hard to clean (brake dust). Enormous trunk--very nice.

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  Love this Car! - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Mazda Lover - March 22 - 2:56 pm

  Love, love, love this car! This has been an amazing car! Drives and handles like a sports car. I have never had any major, or minor, problems with it. Part of the LCD display for the air vent was out when I bought it. I have the 4-cylinder manual and consistently get 32 MPG! This car handles well in all weather and elevations. Love the brakes and tight steering. Very responsive and smooth on the highway. I get lots of complements on the car and everyone that drives it loves it as well. I will be getting another Mazda when I finally have to part with this one.