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:

• 

  More trunk room than my 01 Maxima! - 2008 Mazda Mazda6
  By John Wilson - September 10 - 9:36 am

  Two months into this car with a little over 4200 miles on the odometer. Only negative was a bad AC compressor at 2k miles but was fixed within 4 hours. Car drives and rides nice with plenty of room for the family including the boys baseball gear and a couple of chairs. I was looking at used Pontiac G6s when I found this one and couldnt be happier. Average mileage with 5 speed with mostly city driving is a low of 25 mpg and a high of 29 mpg so far with things only looking better as the car gets more broken in. So much better than the Maxima at 19 - 23 mpg which also asked for premium fuel. VERY happy with my new MAZDA6!

• 

  Sadly Itching to Trade-In - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By hey! - September 6 - 10:23 pm

  CONS. - The bumpers and the body paint do not match (white). The cheap plastic front air vent/fog light covers. The paint got scratched the day I drove it off the lot. The red radio display reflects off the windshield (very distracting). The windshield wipers are not fast enough in heavy rain and they shake my car when Im stopped. The interior handles for my seat feel like they are going to snap off. The gauges and steering wheel are difficult to line up. Condensation inside headlight covers. Little headroom. Front int. lights too bright. The low beams draw a sharp line in my view. PROS - Good mpg. Roomy trunk. Big back seat. 5 star ratings. Side airbags. Reliable. Unique styling.

• 

  back in black - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By djazzman - September 6 - 2:00 am

  Black 6s with 5 speed, black leather, bose. This car is solid. There is no noticeable flex in the chassis & the car rides flat in corners. The best thing about the 6 is its handling. Its really responsive and sure-footed. The engine is very smooth, but does not overwhelm you with low end torque. You must keep the revs up to utilize the 220 horses. No noticeable torque steer or major wheel hop in harder launches. Mileage was horrible at first, it has gotten better. The interior is nice for this class. The wheels are gorgeous. It is a great value in the low $20s with options.

• 

  Best Value in a Sporty Sedan - 2012 Mazda Mazda6
  By madmaz - September 5 - 11:48 am

  We all know that Mazda got a deal on Black, Gray and Silver paint but thats OK. For the price of Mazda 3 where else can you find a car thats fun to drive, handles better than the competition, has great seats, is relatively quiet inside (windows up) and has a huge trunk. Very important (to me) ... this is not a "Skyactiv" engine but the 2.5 4-cyl averages 30 mpg in mixed driving; with a clutch, you can coast up to traffic lights. Alas, it is not a drag-racer but will keep up with normal traffic. Engine will come on strong over 3K RPM but fuel mileage will suffer. At 10K miles on the clock, no mechanical or electrical issues. A well-built machine. Highly recommended.

• 

  Nice fun car - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By Bob Renner - September 1 - 10:00 am

  great car and fun to drive

• 

  30,000 miles no defects - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By dennis manuel - August 29 - 3:40 am

  Excellent value, looks and not one defect or rattle after 30,000 miles. Best mpg was 30.6 US gallon or 36.8 Canadian imperial gallon at 70 mph with air and cruise, 2.3 four with 4 speed auto. 17 inch Michelins worn to wear bars at 24000 miles.

• 

  Great Car - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By j Smith - August 21 - 5:16 pm

  Nearing 90,000 miles with zero problems. The only issue has been a few interior rattles that come and go depending on the outside temperature. It looks like I might be wearing out the drivers seat. Very fun to drive, cannot understand why Mazda decided to redesign the car?

• 

  Quality Control not Mazdas top priority - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By New Mazda owner - August 21 - 1:13 am

  I custom ordered my Mazda6 Grand Sport and waited 3 months for it to arrive at the dealership. When I first saw it it didnt have the right 17" wheels I requested (even the Mazda Brochure shows the car can be ordered with 17" wheels), the paint on the hood had very noticeable streaks and overspray, and one of the tail pipe tips was totally mounted out of whack with the correctly mounted one.

• 

  Great Sports Sedan - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By Michtom - August 17 - 1:56 am

  Ive had this car for 6 months now, and am still loving it. I wanted something sporting/fun to drive with great acceleration and handling, but needed 4 doors and room for 4 kids. In the Mazda6, I got a sweet revving V6 engine (Ford Duratec) with a manual transmission - a combo that is getting hard to find in a midsize sedan. Handling is great - flat cornering, quick steering and excellent braking. The ride is firm but not harsh. I still smile every time I get an open twisty road in front of me. Also has well laid-out interior, good size trunk, comfortable & supportive seats, great stereo, and looks great. I looked for a used one, but they hold their value so well I decided to buy a new one.

• 

  What a Ride!! - 2008 Mazda Mazda6
  By Kathy - August 1 - 1:13 pm

  Ive had my Mazda6 for a week and I absolutely LOVE it! It handles well, its quiet and my blended gas mileage for the first tank was 26 mpg. The heater works great, too!! I had an Acura Integra, but had to "grow up" a little bit. The Mazda6 was the right choice for me because I now have an automatic instead of a stick and can actually get more than 2 people in my car comfortably! It looks great, too!